1. As we study the Gospel of John, let us strive to fulfill the responsibility we are given in 2 Peter 3:18. 2. We are continuing our study of the Lord's private ministry (John 13-17). 3. In this lesson we are covering the information presented in John 14:15-31. 4. The Lord's words in these verses were designed to instruct the apostles as well as comfort and encourage their troubled hearts. a. Jesus had informed the apostles that He was leaving them and they could not go with Him (John 13:33). b. Following His resurrection, Jesus would give the Great Commission to the apostles (Matthew 28:19-20). c. This would include teaching those baptized to observe all things He had commanded them. Discussion: I. JESUS INSTRUCTED THE APOSTLES TO DEMONSTRATE THEIR LOVE TO HIM BY OBEYING HIS COMMANDMENTS
A. (vs.15) Loving the Lord is the motivation for obeying His commandments. B. (vs.21, 23, 24) Receiving the Lord's love and the Father's love requires keeping the Lord's commandments. C. (vs.31) Jesus set the proper example by showing His love for the Father in obeying His commandment. D. The relationship between love and obedience is also emphasized in: 1. John 15:10 2. 1 John 2:3-5 3. 1 John 5:3. II. JESUS PROMISED THAT THE FATHER WOULD SEND THE HOLY SPIRIT TO THE APOSTLES
A. (vs.16-17) Jesus identified the Spirit as "Comforter." B. (vs.25-26) While Jesus spoke to the apostles when He was with them, the Spirit would: 1. teach them "all things" (vs.30; 16:12-13) 2. bring "all things" to their remembrance that Jesus taught them. III. JESUS GAVE A MESSAGE OF ASSURANCE TO THE APOSTLES
A. The concerns of the apostles indicate they lacked understanding (vs.5, 8, 22). B. Jesus assured the apostles that they would eventually understand what was taking place (vs.20, 29). C. Jesus assured the apostles of: 1. His presence (vs.18-19, 28) 2. His peace (vs.27).
