Michael Rankins’ message on Sunday was “I Am The Way: the Master Teacher’s last great lesson.” Taken from John, chapter 14, this is Jesus’ message to his apostles at the Last Supper. He knew this would be his last lesson and he knew what they needed to hear. How does he start the message? With words of comfort: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” He goes on to say that he’ll prepare a place for them and that he is the way to that place. But when Philip said “Show us the Father” Jesus simply replied (John 14: 9-10), “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father… I am in the Father and the Father is in me.” This isn’t blind faith he’s asking for. Jesus is telling them to believe “on the evidence of the works themselves” -- works that they had already seen.
Further, he says that whoever believes in him “will do even greater things than these.” How could that possibly be? When we share the Gospel with others, and when they believe AND obey, we have given them the gift of eternal life. Moreover, we can bestow this gift again and again.
Jesus then promises not to leave us as orphans. We will have an advocate to help us forever - the Spirit of truth will be “with you and will be in you”. The Holy Spirit (John 14:26) will “teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you.” And in verse 27, Jesus brings the message full circle, back to a message of comfort: “Peace I leave with you… Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
That peace is his blessed gift to us. If we love Jesus, if we believe and obey, we will receive a peace that surpasses all understanding.
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