“If you only remember one thing from me today…” It’s a common thing to hear from preachers, a simple strategy to grab their listeners’ attention. In fact it’s common because it works. It seems to automatically make churchgoers lean forward in their seats and, indeed, listen to the only thing they’ll remember from the morning. This passage is Jesus’ “one thing” to be remembered. It’s the last thing he says in his public ministry before the private Last Supper. If you want to know what Jesus’ teaching was all about (at least according to John), read this passage again.
Three massively important themes stick out in Jesus’ panoramic proclamation. First, he emphasizes the fact that he is sent from Yahweh, carrying the authority of God in Heaven and speaking only what God authorized. He was no mere good teacher or role model or prophet; he was the very presence among us of our Creator and King. Second, he reminded Israel of the need to believe the truth of his words, and not only believe them but keep them. There is no half-hearted belief; true belief always makes us willing to drop everything and follow and obey our Lord. And third, he again pointed out the grim but inescapable truth that every person, depending on whether they truly believed, will ultimately either face eternal life or judgment. Our faith and righteousness are not matters to be taken lightly!
What we think about Jesus matters. What we believe matters, and how we live matters. The Creator and King of the universe authoritatively mandated how his people should live, and it just so happens that living that way is the happiest and most fulfilling life a human can have. That life is truly available to us! Don’t forget, the grand purpose of Jesus’ coming was not to bring judgment but to bring salvation to the world. Our Lord earnestly wants us to have that life with him. So take it seriously. If you only remember one thing from this today, remember this: believe in the Son of God and you will have eternal life.
