Primary Texts: John 14:1-31
Memory Verse: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:26-27
Introduction:
With the disciples gathered around in the upper room, Jesus imparts final words of encouragement. How many times had He taught these men, planting the divine truth into their minds and a deeper love and appreciation for God into their hearts? These were the men who would continue to reach and mend broken lives, train others for the ministry, and build up the church.
None of them understood how soon they would be alone, nor yet felt the weight of the responsibility being placed upon their shoulders. The Master knew they would grieve when He was gone, as they grasped the reality that the entire work of the gospel had been left to them. They would face a cruel world, but Jesus intended to leave them with words that would give them confidence.
First: He instructed them to focus upon the glorious place He was preparing for His church. Soon they would realize that it’s important to hope and trust in the future kingdom. God is designing a new heaven and a new earth, a perfect place without sin and disease, devoid of pain and tears. Our eternal home is one without fear, without depression, without suffering. It has no darkness or shadow, no pride or jealousy or envy, where evil is forever barred, and love and peace are constant.
Secondly: Jesus assured them that they would be reunited with Him. This life—this difficult and often perplexing life—is just temporary. It lasts for a short time and then fades, but those who are saved in Christ Jesus awaken with eternal joy in His presence. We must always hold eternity within our hearts. The best part about eternity is that we’ll be with Jesus!
Finally, Jesus wanted His men to know that He wasn’t really leaving them alone, but was sending them the comfort and strength of the Holy Spirit to aid them in their righteous walk and empower them for the work of the ministry.
Studying the Word
Lesson Study
- What was the encouragement that Jesus gave to His disciples in John 14:1-4 on the brink of His arrest?
- What did Jesus mean by saying He was the way, the truth, and the life? John 14:5-6
- Discuss the deeper implications of the answer to question 2 in contrast to the modern philosophy that all religions lead to God.
- Describe what Jesus tried to teach His disciples about His own power and His unity with the Father in His response to Philip’s request. John 14:7-11
- What did Jesus assure the disciples about answering their prayers and enabling them to do miraculous works? John 14:12-14
- In what ways does the comfort of the Holy Spirit strengthen us? John 14:15-18
- Describe the close-knit fellowship and unity that those who are obedient to God’s commandments have with the Father and the Son. John 14:19-21
- Explain why it was difficult for Jesus’ disciples to understand how His lordship would be revealed to them but not to the world? John 14:22-24
- What exceptional gifts was Jesus bestowing upon His men to equip and prepare them for His departure? John 14:25-27
- Why did Jesus say His disciples should be rejoicing instead of grieving on the eve of His departure? John 14:28-31