Scripture: John 3:32 (ESV) – “He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony.”
John the Baptist continues speaking about Jesus’ divine authority, explaining that Jesus testifies to what He has personally seen and heard in heaven. Unlike earthly teachers who speculate about God, Jesus speaks with firsthand knowledge because He comes from the presence of the Father. Yet, despite this incredible truth, many refuse to accept His testimony.
The document emphasizes the tragedy of unbelief. Jesus does not speak as a mere prophet or religious leader—He speaks as the Son of God, revealing divine truth. Yet, the majority of people reject Him, either because of spiritual blindness, love of sin, or pride in their own understanding. This verse echoes what was said earlier in John 1:11: “He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.”
J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, points out that this rejection of Christ is not due to a lack of evidence but to the hardness of human hearts. Ryle warns that rejecting Christ’s testimony is the greatest spiritual danger anyone can face. If we do not believe the words of the One who comes from heaven, whose words can we trust? He encourages believers to take Christ’s words seriously, treasuring them as divine revelation and responding to them with faith and obedience.
For us, this verse serves as both a warning and an encouragement. It warns us against rejecting the truth of Jesus, whether through outright unbelief or by neglecting His words in our daily lives. At the same time, it reassures us that when we accept His testimony, we are listening to the very words of God.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do people struggle to accept the testimony of Jesus, even when He speaks with divine authority?
- Are there areas in your life where you fail to fully receive and trust in Jesus’ words?
- How can you grow in faith by taking Jesus’ testimony more seriously in your daily life?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You have come from heaven to reveal the truth, yet so many reject Your words. Help us to receive Your testimony with faith and humility, knowing that You alone speak with the authority of God. Forgive us for any areas where we doubt or neglect Your words. Teach us to treasure Your truth and to live in obedience to all that You have spoken. May our hearts always be open to hearing and believing Your voice. In Your name, Amen.
This devotional is based on Pastor Chris Cousine’s sermon material and supplemented with insights from J.C. Ryle’s Expository Thoughts on the Gospels on John 3:32.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 