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Commentaries
English
John
  
45"But, because I tell you the truth, you do not believe me.46Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me?47He who is of God hears the words of God; the reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God."


Only Jesus tells the truth, and reveals the truth of God. Blessed are those who believe his words. He knows the truth of the universe, but becomes humble and faithful in all he says.
Many do not accept the good tidings of this truth, because it is Jesus who speaks it. If a political leader or religious founder were to say what Jesus said, men would believe him. But when Jesus spoke as an ordinary man, people publicly rejected him, because they desire greatness and dominance rather than self-denial.
Jesus asked the Jews pointedly, "Why do you not believe? Have you found deceit in me or pride or wicked conduct? No, I always speak the truth and live it out. I am Truth incarnate, innocent, upright, with no trickery or deceit."
Finally, Jesus announced to his rebellious people, "He who is from God hears His words and recognizes His voice. Just as a child distinguishes his parent’s voice from all other voices. The mother too, when she hears her infant’s crying, runs to him. So also the called of God hear the heavenly Father’s voice, but those who cannot understand the Gospel, are not from God. A man may be religious, praying and fasting, yet his father may be the devil. Our piety does not save us, but only a rebirth by Christ’s blood, so that the Spirit may come on us and abide in us. Who is your father, God or Satan? Do not be quick to answer, but compare your purposes with those of the Evil One and then with the works of Christ and then repent."

Prayer
O heavenly Father, we thank you for teaching us the truth about our sins and your love. Forgive my lies, and free me from all hatred and pride. Snatch me from Satan’s power, that I may deny myself and not remain in self-deception. Open my ears and heart to your Gospel, and make me a humble and faithful person.
Question
What are the qualities of the devil that Jesus made clear to us?