Outline PEACE IN TROUBLED TIMES

John 14:1–14 ESV

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves.

Finding Peace in Troubling Times: Trusting Jesus' Promise

Bible Passage: John 14:1–14

Summary: In John 14:1–14, Jesus comforts His disciples, assuring them that they need not let their hearts be troubled, for He is the way to the Father and promises to prepare a place for them.

Application: This passage teaches us that even in our most troubling times, we can find peace through faith in Jesus. It encourages Christians to lean on Christ's promises and to trust in His plan for our lives, especially when facing uncertainty and fear.

Teaching: The sermon communicates that Jesus is the source of peace and the path to eternal life. He invites us to trust Him amidst turmoil, assuring us of His presence and the hope He provides.

How this passage could point to Christ: In this passage, Christ is presented as the way, the truth, and the life, emphasizing His central role in our relationship with God. It reflects the broader biblical theme that through Christ, we access God and find true peace.

Big Idea: True peace is found in trusting Jesus, who guides us to the Father and comforts our troubled hearts.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the Greek terms used in this passage, focusing on 'troubled' and 'peace' to understand their depth in the context. You might also look into John 14 in your Logos library for commentaries that discuss the cultural background of Jesus' assurances to His disciples, and how these assurances apply to modern believers facing their own struggles.

1. Promise of Prepared Place

John 14:1–4

Perhaps in these opening verses, you could emphasize how Jesus immediately addresses the disciples' anxiety by offering them reassurance of a prepared place, which demonstrates His proactive love and care. Point out that in our own lives, acknowledging Jesus' promise of a future with Him can bring immense peace, knowing that our ultimate destination is secure regardless of present troubles.

2. Pathway of Promise

John 14:5–7

In this section, Thomas questions Jesus, leading to one of Jesus' profound statements – "I am the way, the truth, and the life." Here, you could delve into the exclusivity and necessity of faith in Christ for peace. Encourage the congregation to embrace and trust fully in Jesus as their guide and source of truth amidst life's uncertainties.

3. Person of Peace

John 14:8–11

Maybe discuss how Philip's request to see the Father prompts Jesus to reveal His divine unity with the Father. By trusting in Jesus, we intimately know God. Suggest that assurance in knowing God through Christ dispels fear, for our relationship with Jesus provides us peace as we experience God's presence and work in our lives.

4. Power of Prayer

John 14:12–14

Consider focusing on the promise that believers will do greater works through faith in Jesus and prayer. You could illustrate how this reflects the peace that comes from participating in God’s ongoing mission and relies on the power of prayer in Jesus’ name. Encourage reliance on this promise for strength and comfort in troubling times.

In 2 Kings 6:15-17, the prophet Elisha's servant was terrified upon seeing the enemy army surrounding them. Elisha calmly reassured him, saying, "Do not fear; for those who are with us are more than those who are with them." He prayed for the servant's eyes to be opened, allowing him to see the chariots of fire that surrounded them. This story illustrates that even when trouble looms, God's presence gives us profound peace.

For instance, if someone shares an opinion you disagree with, instead of arguing, ask a question or find common ground. Your commitment to peace can be a powerful witness of Christ's love in a fragmented world.

In what ways can we actively trust in Jesus during troubling times in our lives?

How can we live out the peace that comes from trusting in Jesus while facing everyday challenges?

What practical steps can we take to embody the peace of Christ in our interactions on social media?

John 14:1–14 ESV

Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.