John 13-16

Jesus washes His disciples' feet; Jesus foretells His betrayal, His death and second coming; Holy Spirit promised

Eleven of the 12 apostles were convinced that Jesus was the Messiah. Along with the multitude, they too had joined in shouting: Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that comes in the Name of the Lord (John 12:13). But, Jesus had earlier said that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed (Matthew 16:21). Later, the disciples were fearful because Jesus said He was leaving them. The apostles were also troubled that He had said that one of their own number would betray Him (John 13:21-22).

Some of the most comforting words of Jesus were spoken at the very moment that the religious leaders were planning how to kill Him and He knew it. With the utmost calm He said: Let not your heart be troubled: you believe in God, believe also in Me. . . . I go to prepare a place for you. And . . . I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. . . . Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you: not as the world gives, give I to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid (14:1-3,27).

The picture is much clearer to us 2,000 years later, as we read the full story. However, like the disciples, occasionally, each of us is faced with fears of what tomorrow may bring. When we are facing financial loss, divorce, disease, handicaps, or other "things" that happen to those who love the Lord, we need to remember that the Lord knows how to take care of our tomorrows. We too can have the utmost confidence in our Lord's comforting command: Let not your heart be troubled: you believe in God, believe also in Me (14:1).

We must choose whether we will or will not allow our hearts to be troubled. Every disappointment offers an opportunity to overcome stress, fear, and depression, and to develop patience and faith in God.

The Apostle Peter assures us: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial (painful ordeal) which is to try (test) you, as though some strange thing happened to you: But rejoice, inasmuch as you are partakers (sharers) of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, you may be glad also with exceeding joy (I Peter 4:12-13).

Word Studies:

13:10 but not all = all were clean except Judas; 15:2 purgeth it = prunes, cuts it back.

Cross References:

For John 13:18: See Psalm 41:9. John 15:25: See Psalm 35:19; 69:4.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in memory of Velena C. Malone · Government Official: Rep. John Carter (TX) · Country: Andorra (66,000) in the eastern Pyrenees between France and Spain · Major languages: Catalan and French · Religious freedom · 94% Roman Catholic; .6% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Pray and fast as you confess your sins and intercede for our nation (Nehemiah 1:4-6).

Memory Verse for the Week:

I Corinthians 6:10

Used with Permission