The Departure of Jesus - Final Part
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | September 13 2024 | John 16:23-33
KEY VERSE:
” I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
In His final discourse of the chapter, the Lord Jesus Christ provides a clincher to his message:
In the world, you will have tribulation;
In me, you can have peace;
I have overcome the world - even before His death and resurrection.
The Lord Jesus is not creating anxiety or anxious moments but saying it all. Truth liberates. The Triune God has never shied away from making His people aware of what lies ahead - the pleasant and the unpleasant:
Abraham was told his people would have it tough in a foreign land for four hundred years and then liberation would come (Genesis 15:12-16).
Paul was told that he would suffer much for the sake of the Name (Acts 9:16).
Mary, the mother of Jesus was told a sword would pierce her heart (Luke 2:35).
Paul was careful to tell the Church that we would go to Heaven through much tribulation (Acts 14:22). Why do some of us want people to think and believe that Christianity always walks in Silver Footwear (John Bunyan)? Jesus in the previous chapters had talked about the hatred of the world and the reasons why. In the early verses of this chapter, you may recall, that Christ informed His disciples of the tough times ahead.
It appears instructive to note that when talking about the woes of the world, our Saviour uses “will”, an indicative of certainty. However, when it came to the issue of peace, He used “may” which suggests, at least, a tinge of uncertainty although not on the part of the Prince of Peace, but from our perspective. For example in John 20:19-29, the resurrected Jesus visits the disciples and pronounces peace on them. Thomas who was not present would have none of it. He wanted ocular proof. Christ came again and stated that happy are those who believe without seeing. Our peace depends on us taking these words to heart. In Philippians 4: 4-7, we are told not to be anxious, but to pray instead. The verse 7 is categorical that if we do, the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus - the heart and mind are critical parts of the body that need the protection of the peace of God. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
The Lord Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace. Run to Him for the peace that goes beyond understanding. Sin and guilty conscience take away our peace (Psalm 32). Christ’s Blood addresses these issues. Let us approach Him with our concerns and seek His peace. PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, please let your peace abound unto all, especially those suffering unjustifiably. Grant us the grace to pray earnestly and avoid unnecessary worry. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: TRIBULATION
In John 16:33, the Greek term thlipsis, translated as "tribulation," refers to a range of challenges including intense pressure, affliction, oppression, and trials that believers will face in a world hostile to Jesus' teachings.
Jesus uses this term to describe the trials and difficulties that arise from living in a fallen world, marked by opposition and persecution against those who follow Him. The term underscores the reality of the challenges that come with discipleship, contrasting sharply with the anticipated joy of their future with Him.
Reflections:
While tribulation is a guaranteed part of the Christian journey, it serves as a backdrop to the profound peace and victory found in Christ. How does the reality of tribulation shape your understanding of your faith journey, and how can you lean into Christ’s victory amidst your struggles?
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