Scripture: John 2:25 (ESV) – “And needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man.”
J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, highlights this verse as a profound declaration of Jesus’ divine knowledge. Unlike any human being, Jesus did not require external testimony or observations to understand people. He fully knew the hearts, thoughts, and motives of everyone He encountered. This verse emphasizes both His omniscience and His ability to see beyond outward appearances to the true condition of the human soul.
Ryle points out that this divine attribute of Jesus is both comforting and convicting. It is comforting because we can approach Jesus with complete honesty, knowing He understands us fully—even the struggles and fears we cannot articulate. Yet, it is also convicting because there is no hiding from Him. Our sins, motives, and desires are laid bare before Him, requiring us to approach Him with humility and repentance.
This verse also connects to the preceding passage, where Jesus does not entrust Himself to those with superficial faith. Ryle underscores that Jesus’ perfect knowledge equips Him to judge rightly and to discern the sincerity of those who claim to follow Him. He is not swayed by flattery, appearances, or external actions but looks directly at the heart.
For us, this verse is a call to examine our own hearts. Do we approach Jesus with genuine faith and openness, or are we attempting to maintain a façade? It also encourages us to rest in the assurance that Jesus knows us completely and still loves us, offering grace and transformation to those who come to Him in faith.
Reflection Questions:
- How does Jesus’ perfect knowledge of your heart challenge you to live with greater honesty and humility?
- Are there areas in your life where you are trying to hide from God, and how can this verse encourage you to bring them before Him?
- How does knowing that Jesus understands you completely help you trust Him more deeply?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for knowing us fully and still loving us unconditionally. Help us to approach You with honesty and humility, trusting in Your grace and power to transform our hearts. Teach us to live with sincerity, knowing that nothing is hidden from You. Strengthen our faith and help us to rest in the assurance that You understand our deepest needs and offer us Your perfect love. In Your name, Amen.
*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 