32 There is another who testifies about Me, and I know that His testimony about Me is true.

33 You have sent to John, and he has testified to the truth.

— John 5:32-33

36 But the testimony that I have is greater than that of John. For the works that the Father has given Me to accomplish, the very works that I am doing, bear witness about Me that the Father has sent Me.

37 And the Father who sent Me has Himself testified about Me. You have never heard His voice nor seen His form,

38 nor does His word abide in you, because you do not believe the One He sent.

39 You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about Me.

40 yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life.

— John 5:36-40

27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about Himself.

— Luke 24:27

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace and salvation from the Lord Jesus to you.

Jesus’ divine “credentials” are backed up with four reliable witnesses. Though the Lord’s testimony about Himself carried sufficient weight, Jesus had additional witnesses to validate His claims. Firstly, John the Baptist testified to Jesus boldly in front of people. Secondly, Jesus’ own works, the miracles He performed, offered a testimony for Himself and His divine authority. Jesus did things only God could do. His “signs” revealed not only His unlimited supernatural power but also His compassionate heart for needy people.

Thirdly, the Father Himself testified regarding to Jesus’ authority by declaring, “You are my Son, whom I love; with You I am well pleased. Fourthly, the Scriptures clearly bear witness about Jesus as the Messiah. Though the Jewish officials diligently studied the Old Testament Scriptures, because they thought that in them they might have life, yet they rejected Jesus—the only one who can give life. They shunned the very Messiah the Scriptures proclaimed; they were not willing to come to Jesus to gain life.