The witness to the Identity and Mission of Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: Fourth Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 5:31-47*

*First Reading : Ex 32:7-14*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 106:19-20, 21-22, 23*

*The witness to the Identity and Mission of Jesus*

*1) Bearing Witness through Truthful Testimony* (John 5:31-32)

Jesus acknowledges that self-testimony alone is insufficient but points to a higher witness— a witess from God the Father. 

As Christians, our witness must align with divine truth, not personal ambition. 

This means living with integrity, speaking truthfully about Christ, and sharing our faith authentically.

*2) Bearing Witness through the Example of Others* (John 5:33-35)

Jesus refers to John the Baptist as a witness. 

John’s life was dedicated to preparing the way for Christ, living a life of humility and truth. 

We too can bear witness by directing others to Jesus through our words and actions, much like John did.

*3) Bearing Witness through Good Works* (John 5:36)

Jesus highlights that His works—miracles, teachings, and acts of love—testify to His divine mission. 

As followers of Christ, our lives should reflect His love and truth through acts of kindness, service, and justice. 

In Matthew 5:16 Jesus says *"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven*

*4) Bearing Witness through Scripture* (John 5:37-39)

Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for studying the Scriptures yet failing to recognize Him. 

This challenges us to read Scripture not just for knowledge, but for transformation, allowing it to shape our lives and guide others toward Christ.

*5) Bearing Witness by Seeking God's Approval, Not Human Praise* (John 5:41-44)

Jesus warns against seeking human validation over God’s approval.

Bearing witness to Christ requires courage, especially when it means standing against cultural pressures.

Galatians 1:10 reminds us: *If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.*

*6) Bearing Witness by Faith in Jesus, Not Just Religious Knowledge* (John 5:45-47)

Jesus accuses the religious leaders of missing the heart of Moses’ teachings, which pointed to Him. 

Our witness must be rooted in a personal relationship with Christ, not just intellectual belief. 

This means living out our faith, allowing Christ’s words to transform us.

*7) My Life as Witness to Christ*

Today, the mission of bearing witness is given to me. How do I respond to this call? 

Does my life bear witness to Christ? 

 What are the various  ways, through which I become  witness to Christ?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*