Jesus Revealed Part 16 - It's In The NameSample

Clarity Does Not Mean Commitment  

Thoughts on the Passage

Two key things here.

First, the disciples speak again about why they believe – Jesus speaks truth with clarity. They see in Jesus someone who speaks truth. Sometimes, they do not understand, and, when they seek understanding, Jesus explains things to them. On this day, Jesus says some things that confuse them. Some of the things just do not make sense because they do not know what Jesus is about to suffer – so the things He says make no sense. Some of the things Jesus does not fully explain; the understanding will come later. However, when Jesus explains things clearly, then they are reminded about why they love Him, why the believe in Him and why they continue to follow Him. Jesus speaks truth clearly.

Second, Jesus speaks some more truth – they are all going to abandon Him on this night. Jesus is going to face the cross alone. The disciples who love Him so much will not have the courage to stand with Him in this critical moment. Jesus knows this. Jesus also knows that the Father will never leave Him in this moment. How does Jesus prepare the disciples for their failure? He encourages them. In the midst of their failure, and in the midst of incredible attack from the world, remember that Jesus overcomes! He will overcome their failure and fulfill His destiny at the cross. Their failures do not determine the faithfulness of Jesus. The disciples will remember this. The disciples will take heart when they face greater challenges in their future. Jesus will help them overcome as well.

Application

When you need clarity, Jesus gives clarity in life’s situations. Ask Him today to give you understanding for any difficult situation, any issue that needs God’s perspective. Jesus gives it.

When you fail – like the disciples – Jesus says take heart, because He has overcome the world. So get up, take hold of Jesus’ hand, and carry on.

Time to Pray

Father, Jesus helps me understand Your heart and Your words so much. He brings clarity to truth that no one else can do. Help me today to respond to Jesus the way the disciples did. They believed Your testimony of Jesus. They believed the claims of Jesus and were willing to follow Him even to death. They could not follow those commitments with actions, and I know that I have that same problem at times. Still, Jesus promised peace to us. Jesus promised to never leave us or forsake us even when we struggle, He remains faithful to us. That is Your promise to me as well. Thank you so much. Strengthen my heart today to not look at the times I fail, but to look at Jesus. When I stumble, pick me up. When my heart is in turmoil because of life, Jesus promised peace to me – release Your peace. When this world seems to be winning, keep my eyes on Jesus, because He has overcome this world! In Jesus’ name, Amen.