1. Growing in the knowledge of Christ is an important responsibility (2 Peter 3:18). 2. The Gospel of John contains information that will help us to accomplish this growth. 3. In this lesson we are covering the information presented in John 14:1-14. 4. Let us first determine . . . Discussion:
I. WHY JESUS TOLD HIS DISCIPLES NOT TO ALLOW THEIR HEARTS TO BE TROUBLED
A. According to John 13:1-2, Jesus had just eaten the Passover meal with His disciples. B. Jesus also informed His disciples that He was leaving them (John 13:33). C. Peter's response in vs.36-37 indicates that he was troubled. D. Jesus did not want His followers to remain in their troubled state, so He said in John 14:1, "Let not your heart be troubled" [He repeated this statement in John 14:27b]. II. (John 14:1) JESUS GAVE HIS DISCIPLES SOME INSTRUCTIONS TO HELP THEIR TROUBLED HEARTS
A. First, He said in vs.1b, "Believe in God." 1. How does believing in God help us when our hearts are troubled? 2. During times of trouble,: a. God provides help (Psalm 46:1) b. God also provides comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-4a) c. those who believe in God can say, "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair" (2 Corinthians 4:8). B. Second, Jesus said in vs.1c, "Believe also in me." 1. The Bible declares that Jesus came to earth (John 1:14). 2. While on earth He faced the same trials we face (Hebrews 4:15). 3. Consequently, He provides assistance to His followers (Hebrews 4:16). 4. In addition to giving helpful instructions, . . . III. (John 14:2-4) JESUS PRESENTED SOME INFORMATION TO HIS DISCIPLES TO HELP THEIR TROUBLED HEARTS
A. (vs.2) Jesus spoke about His Father's house [heaven] where there is plenty of room. 1. He said He was going there to prepare a place for His followers. 2. The things that cause our hearts to be troubled will not be there (Revelation 21:4, 27). 3. Jesus assured His disciples that they could eventually be there with Him. B. (vs.3) Jesus also spoke about His return. 1. Earlier, Jesus connected the resurrection and the judgment with His return (John 5:28-29). 2. Those who are prepared for His return will be blessed with eternal life. IV. (John 14:5-11) JESUS RESPONDED TO THOMAS AND PHILIP
A. (vs.5-7) Jesus responded to Thomas. B. (vs.8-11) Jesus responded to Philip.
V. (John 14:12-14) TO FURTHER COMFORT THEIR TROUBLED HEARTS, JESUS ASSURED THE DISCIPLES OF 2 SPECIAL PRIVILEGES
A. (vs.12) He first assured the disciples that they would do greater works than He did. B. (vs.13-14) He also assured them that their prayers in His name would be answered.
