So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
What is Jesus meaning when He is saying “abide in My Word”?
From Biblehub: Greek verb “μένω” (menó) primarily means to remain or stay in a given place, state, or relation. It conveys a sense of persistence and continuity, often implying a steadfastness or enduring presence. In the New Testament, it is frequently used to describe the believer’s relationship with Christ, emphasizing a continual, abiding connection. In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of “abiding” or “remaining” was often associated with loyalty and fidelity, whether in personal relationships, philosophical schools, or civic duties. In the context of the New Testament, “μένω” takes on a deeply spiritual connotation, reflecting the intimate and enduring relationship between believers and Christ. This abiding is not merely a physical presence but involves a spiritual and relational depth, akin to the rabbinic tradition of disciples remaining with their teacher to learn and emulate their way of life.
The other word that needs to be understood in context is “word” in this scripture.
Again from Biblehub: The term “logos” is a multifaceted Greek word that encompasses a range of meanings including “word,” “speech,” “reason,” “doctrine,” and “account.” In the New Testament, “logos” is used to denote the spoken or written word, the message of the Gospel, and, most profoundly, as a title for Jesus Christ, emphasizing His role as the divine Word of God incarnate. Theologically, “logos” signifies the communication of God’s will and truth to humanity. In ancient Greek philosophy, “logos” referred to the principle of order and knowledge. Philosophers like Heraclitus used it to describe the rational principle governing the cosmos. In the Hellenistic Jewish context, “logos” was associated with divine wisdom and the intermediary between God and the world. The Apostle John, in his Gospel, appropriates this term to articulate the preexistence and divinity of Christ, presenting Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God.
So what is the word “truth” in this scripture?
BibleHub: In the New Testament, ἀλήθεια (alétheia) is used to denote truth in a variety of contexts, including the truth of God, the truth of the Gospel, and the truth as a moral and ethical standard. It signifies not only factual correctness but also sincerity, integrity, and faithfulness. Alétheia is often contrasted with falsehood and deception, emphasizing the divine nature of truth as revealed in Jesus Christ and the Scriptures. In the Greco-Roman world, truth was a significant philosophical concept, often associated with reality and the nature of being. In the Jewish tradition, truth was closely linked to God’s character and His covenant faithfulness. The New Testament writers, influenced by both Jewish and Hellenistic thought, present truth as an essential attribute of God and a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith. Jesus Christ is depicted as the embodiment of truth, and His teachings are presented as the ultimate revelation of God’s truth to humanity.
Doing word studies can give a person a much deeper perspective on the meaning of the word, sentence, or passage you are reading in the scriptures. When Jesus was speaking these things what do you think the disciples thought of? How did they interpret His words to them? How many times do you think they got it wrong or didn’t understand? Did they run to the Pharisees for the correct interpretation? Today who should we be seeking understanding from?
This is why the depth of relationship you have with the indwelling Presence of the Holy Spirit is SO important! He is the one that you should be asking your questions to. You should be receiving understanding and wisdom from Him. He is the One you should be spending time with in conversation throughout your entire day.
Be willing to dig deep and explore with the Holy Spirit. Be willing to ask Him the questions in the deepest part of your heart and soul. Also be willing to ask Him about the little things. The idea here is intimate relationship.