What Jesus Did! 'Son of God' — John 19:7

Tuesday, November 24, 2026

The Jewish leaders replied [to Pilate after he said Jesus was not guilty], "By our law [Jesus] ought to die because he called himself the Son of God."
— John 19:7 NLT

Key Thought

We often have a hard time hearing Jesus specifically make the claim to be "the Son of God." Yet that claim is made carefully and repeatedly in the gospel story. Jesus often referred to God as his Father. He accepted the title of Son of God when others gave it to him, except on some occasions when the others were demon possessed. He effectively answered "yes" to the question, "Are you the Son of God?" [1] The Gospel of John wants us to make a decision about Jesus [2] - either he is a madman or God's Son. Those are our two choices. If we don't choose the latter, then we assume the former. What's your choice? Who do you believe Jesus is?

[1] In both Matthew 26:64 and Luke 22:70, Jesus' answer to the question about his being God's Son was that's what they (his accusers) said, but the next verse in Luke (Luke 22:71) makes it clear that they understood his answer to be "yes."
[2] John 20:30-31.

Today's Prayer

Lord Jesus, I believe that you are the Son of God, that you left heaven and came to earth to deliver me from sin and death, and that one day you will return to earth to take me home to your glory. Thank you! Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

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Illustration

Illustration of John 19:7 NLT — The Jewish leaders replied [to Pilate after he said Jesus was not guilty], "By our law [Jesus] ought to die because he called himself the Son of God."

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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