Timeless Truths: Things That You Can Count On – Part 1
6. Timeless Truths: Things That You Can Count On – Part 1
February 11, 2016
All Scripture quotations are from the NIV.
29. Then Jesus’ disciples said, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. 30 Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God.”
31 “Do you now believe?” Jesus replied. 32 “A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.” John16:29-32
A. As John records this dialog, Jesus has just finished teaching the disciples about prayer. He’s specifically told them that they can ask for anything in His name and the Father would give it to them.
At that moment, they were very happy campers. (Verses 29-30)
B. But now He informs them that the day was coming when the pressure would be on Him. That’s bad enough news considering what Jesus did to set up his next words. But, he goes on to tell them in no uncertain terms that they will all run for cover and leave Him alone to die on the cross. (verse 32 liberally interpreted!)
C. Here are three extraordinary things about Jesus.
- He knew their weaknesses, yet He loved them.
- He knew they would fail, yet he still trusted them.
- HE knew the worst about them, but he would still count on them.
These three truths should give each one of us HOPE.
So, Jesus has pumped His disciples up. Then He brought them down with bad news. Wouldn’t you be thinking, What’s next?
D. Verse 33 is unbelievable. 33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
What’s next is a contrast!
The World Trouble Hatred Persecution | Jesus Peace. Victory. The Courage we need |
E. THROUGH ALL THIS, THERE ARE TWO THINGS THAT YOU CAN COUNT ON.
- Trouble – to know is to be prepared. Don’t be deceived by what sounds too good to be true—life is life.
- Jesus – so be courageous.
Thanks to the late Dr. Tom Goble for the teachings used in this blog.
In Part 2, we’ll look at how Paul categorizes trouble in 2 Corinthians 4.
Next Thursday's Timeless Truths Series: Things That You Can Count On – Part 2
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Email me at: chuckdowningauthor@gmail.com
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