John 8:31
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
What does it truly mean to say, “I believe in Jesus”?
We live in a world where belief is often defined broadly and shaped by personal preference. It is no surprise that many profess to be Christian, yet live far from Jesus. As you read this, you may wonder, “Who are you to judge?”
You are right, I am no one special. I am simply a sinner who has spent time with the Lord and learned that holding on to Jesus is far more than:
- A feel-good experience.
Believing in Jesus, according to Jesus, requires transformation, from a worldly mindset to becoming a new creation.
Luke 9:23 (KJV)
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
- Religious knowledge or ritual.
Learning to follow an organized religion does not mean we are right with God.
Revelation 2:4–5 (KJV)
Nevertheless, I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.
Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
- Continuing in rebellion while claiming belief.
I learned that I cannot follow my own desires, reject God’s commands, and still claim to believe in Jesus.
John 8:34–36
Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
These are a few of the lessons I have learned while sitting at the feet of Jesus. I share them to encourage you to examine your own belief and ask whether your faith is truly rooted in Him.
Faith in Jesus and belief in Jesus walk together. You cannot claim faith in Christ while your life remains untouched by obedience. Obedience is the visible testimony of belief.
What Is Faith?
Hebrews 11:1 (ESV)
“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”
The Greek word for faith here is πίστις (pístis)—firm belief, trust, confidence, conviction, faithful reliance, and persuasion based on truth.
The faith God calls us to is not passive or negotiable. It is not mere intellectual agreement. True faith trusts, leans, and acts on what God has spoken, even when the outcome is unseen.
Take time alone and ask yourself: Do I truly believe in Jesus, or have I convinced myself that simply knowing about Him is enough? You may know His name and understand His commands.
The question is whether your belief goes beyond religious performance and leads to transformation and freedom from the bondage of Satan. Only you can answer that.
