Prayer List

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them.

Comfort for the Disciples

John 14:1-4)

Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug-

gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage.

In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense.

The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children.

With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life.

Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust?

Concern for the Future

John 14:5-14)

Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven.

    Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do