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We Need First-Hand Knowledge of Christ

John Henry Jowett

Today's Devotional

Last of all he appeared to me also —1 Corinthians 15:8 (NIV).

And by that vision Saul of Tarsus was transformed. And so, by the ministry of a risen Lord we have received the gift of a transfigured Paul. The resurrection glory fell upon him, and he was glorified. In that superlative light he discovered his sin, his error, his need, but he also found the dynamic of the immortal hope.

“Seen of me also!” Can I, too, calmly and confidently claim the experience? Or am I altogether depending upon another man’s sight, and are my own eyes unillumined? In these realms the witness of “hear-says” counts for nothing; he only speaks with arresting power who has seen for himself.

“Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?” (John18: 34 ESV). That is the question which is asked, not only by the Master, but by all who hear us tell the story of the risen Lord. Has He been seen by you too?

My Savior, I humbly pray you to give me first-hand knowledge of you. Let me be a witness who can say, “I know that my Redeemer lives!” Before all the doubts and hesitancies of man enable me to answer, “Have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord?”

About the author and the source

John Henry Jowett (1864–1923) a famed pastor and author, served congregations in both England and the United States. He believed the gospel was the only hope for our times. Crime dropped remarkably when he pastored in Birmingham, England.

John Henry Jowett. My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year. New York, Chicago: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1914.

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