The Great Physician Can Cure a Troubled Heart (John 14:1-6)
Introduction:
1. Jesus has often been called "the Great Physician." 2. We can appreciate this expression when we consider how Jesus healed multitudes of people during His ministry (Matthew 4:23-24; 8:16-17; 12:15; 14:14; 15:30-31; 19:1-2). 3. By healing such a wide variety of illnesses and diseases, the Great Physician could be referred to as a "General Practitioner." 4. In our lesson we are emphasizing how the Great Physician is also a "Specialist" in that "He can cure a troubled heart." 5. Jesus spoke to His disciples about this kind of cure in John 14:1-6. 6. As we study these verses we will examine: a. why Jesus made these statements to His disciples b. some "instructions" and some "information" that Jesus gave. 7. The first step we need to take is to determine . . . Discussion: I. WHY JESUS MADE THESE STATEMENTS TO HIS DISCIPLES
A. Jesus had just eaten the Passover meal with His disciples (John 13:1-2). B. On that occasion Jesus gave instructions for His Supper (Luke 22:19-20). C. Jesus also informed His disciples that He was leaving them (John 13:33). D. Peter's response in vs.36-37 indicates that he was troubled. E. Jesus did not want His followers to remain in their upset condition. F. We understand why Jesus made these statements to His disciples -- they were upset after Jesus told them He was leaving and they could not go with Him. G. We have something in common with the disciples -- we also face circumstances that can cause our hearts to be troubled. H. We need to listen carefully to the instructions and the information that Jesus gave to His disciples to help their troubled hearts. II. JESUS GAVE HIS DISCIPLES SOME "INSTRUCTIONS" TO CURE THEIR TROUBLED HEARTS
A. First, He said in vs.1b, "Believe in God." 1. As the Bible begins, it declares that God exists (Genesis 1:1). 2. The Bible also provides evidence for God's existence (Psalm 19:1-6). 3. How does believing in God help us when our hearts are troubled? a. During times of trouble God provides help (Psalm 46:1). b. God also provides comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-4a). c. Those who believe in God make the statement that the apostle Paul made in 2 Corinthians 4:8. B. Second, Jesus said in vs.1c, "Believe also in me." 1. The Bible declares that: a. Jesus came to earth (John 1:14) 1) While on earth Jesus faced the same trials we face (Hebrews 4:15). 2) Consequently, He provides assistance to His followers (Hebrews 4:16). b. Jesus is God's Son on the basis of His miracles (John 20:30-31). 2. Satan uses trouble to try to prevent us from believing in Christ. 3. Jesus said, "Believe in God, believe also in me." III. JESUS PRESENTED SOME "INFORMATION" TO HIS DISCIPLES TO CURE THEIR TROUBLED HEARTS
A. (vs.2) Jesus spoke about His Father's house [heaven]. 1. He indicated that there is plenty of room in His Father's house. 2. He said He was going there to prepare a place for His followers. 3. Jesus assured His disciples that they could eventually be there with Him. 4. Thomas was confused, but we can know the way to the Father -- Jesus is the only way. B. (vs.3) Jesus also spoke about His return. 1. Earlier, Jesus said that the resurrection and the judgment will occur when He returns (John 5:28-29). 2. Those who are prepared for His return will be blessed with eternal life. Conclusion:
1. Is your heart troubled today? 2. Do you believe in God? 3. Do you believe in Jesus? 4. Do you have the hope of going to heaven? 5. Are you prepared for the Lord's return? 6. "Rest" is available to those who come to Christ (Matthew 11:28-30).