Belief, Community, and Strength in Faith's Trials
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound moments leading up to Jesus's crucifixion, focusing on the theme of belief and the importance of final instructions. Reflecting on the movie "Armageddon," where a character sacrifices himself for the greater good, we drew parallels to Jesus's ultimate sacrifice. In His final hours, Jesus continued to teach and guide His disciples, emphasizing the necessity of belief in Him and the Father. The Gospel of John, which we delved into, underscores this theme of belief, portraying Jesus as the Word, the Light, and the Son of God.
Jesus's words, "Do not let your hearts be troubled," serve as a comforting reminder of His promise to prepare a place for us in His Father's house. Despite the impending betrayal and denial by His closest friends, Jesus reassured His disciples of His return and the importance of unwavering belief. This message resonates with us today, as we face our own challenges and uncertainties.
We also discussed the concept of "pre-deciding" how to respond when our beliefs are tested. This involves preparing ourselves spiritually and emotionally for the inevitable trials we will face. By turning to scripture, music, and trusted friends, we can fortify our faith and navigate difficult times.
Thomas and Philip, two of Jesus's disciples, exemplify the struggle with doubt and the quest for understanding. Jesus met them with grace and patience, encouraging them to believe in His works and words. This interaction reminds us that it's okay to have questions and seek clarity in our faith journey.
Finally, we acknowledged the power of community and the importance of surrounding ourselves with supportive believers. Jesus's promise that we will do greater works than He did is a testament to the potential of collective faith and action. As we continue to grow in our belief, we are called to be a light to the world, pointing others to the truth of Jesus's teachings.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Importance of Belief: Belief is central to our faith journey. Jesus's reassurance to His disciples, "Do not let your hearts be troubled," highlights the significance of trusting in His promises, even amidst uncertainty and fear. Our belief in Jesus and His works is foundational to experiencing His peace and presence in our lives. [04:59]
2. Pre-Deciding in Faith: Preparing ourselves for challenges by "pre-deciding" how we will respond can strengthen our faith. This involves identifying scriptures, songs, and trusted individuals that can support us during difficult times. By doing so, we can remain steadfast in our belief, even when faced with trials. [09:15]
3. Embracing Doubt and Questions: It's natural to have doubts and questions in our faith journey. Jesus's interactions with Thomas and Philip demonstrate that our questions do not disqualify us from His love. Instead, they can lead to a deeper understanding and stronger belief in Him. [13:46]
4. The Power of Community: We are not meant to navigate our faith journey alone. Being part of a supportive community can provide encouragement and strength when our belief is challenged. Jesus's care for His disciples exemplifies the importance of nurturing and uplifting one another in faith. [16:23]
5. Greater Works Through Belief: Jesus's promise that we will do greater works than He did is a call to action for believers. By multiplying our efforts and faith, we can witness and participate in miraculous works that glorify God. This potential is realized through collective belief and reliance on the Holy Spirit. [21:55]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [02:00] - Introduction and Movie Reference
- [04:59] - The Importance of Belief
- [07:30] - Jesus's Comforting Words
- [09:15] - Pre-Deciding in Faith
- [11:45] - Thomas and Philip's Questions
- [13:46] - Embracing Doubt and Questions
- [16:23] - The Power of Community
- [18:50] - Greater Works Through Belief
- [21:55] - Invitation to Believe
- [24:04] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- John 1:1-2
- John 14:1-14
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Observation Questions:
1. In John 1:1-2, how does John describe Jesus, and what significance does this have for understanding His identity?
2. What comforting promise does Jesus give to His disciples in John 14:1-3, and why is it important for them at that moment? [04:59]
3. How does Jesus respond to Thomas's question about knowing the way in John 14:5-6, and what does this reveal about Jesus's role? [09:15]
4. What does Jesus say about the relationship between Himself and the Father in John 14:10-11, and how does this relate to the theme of belief? [13:46]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. Why might Jesus's words, "Do not let your hearts be troubled," be particularly significant for the disciples given the context of His impending departure? [04:59]
2. How does the concept of "pre-deciding" to respond to challenges in faith, as discussed in the sermon, relate to the disciples' need to remain steadfast in their belief? [09:15]
3. In what ways do Thomas and Philip's questions reflect common struggles in the faith journey, and how does Jesus's response provide a model for addressing doubt? [13:46]
4. What does Jesus mean when He says believers will do "greater works" than He did, and how does this promise encourage collective faith and action? [16:23]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when your belief was challenged. How did you respond, and what might you do differently in the future to "pre-decide" your response? [09:15]
2. Jesus reassures His disciples with the promise of preparing a place for them. How can this promise provide comfort in your current life situation? [04:59]
3. Consider the role of community in your faith journey. How can you actively contribute to and benefit from a supportive faith community? [16:23]
4. When faced with doubts or questions about your faith, what steps can you take to seek clarity and strengthen your belief, as exemplified by Thomas and Philip? [13:46]
5. Identify a specific area in your life where you can exercise greater belief in Jesus's promise of doing "greater works." What practical steps can you take to act on this belief? [21:55]
6. How can you incorporate scripture, music, or trusted friends into your routine to fortify your faith during challenging times? [09:15]
7. Reflect on the idea of being a light to the world. What is one tangible way you can point others to the truth of Jesus's teachings this week? [21:55]
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting in Jesus Amidst Uncertainty
In the moments leading up to His crucifixion, Jesus offered His disciples words of comfort and reassurance, urging them to trust in Him and the Father. Despite the looming betrayal and denial, Jesus emphasized the importance of belief, reminding His followers not to let their hearts be troubled. This message is timeless, encouraging believers to hold onto faith even when faced with fear and uncertainty. Trusting in Jesus's promises allows us to experience His peace and presence, providing a foundation for navigating life's challenges. [04:59]
John 14:1-3 (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."
Reflection: What specific fears or uncertainties are troubling your heart today? How can you actively choose to trust in Jesus's promises in these areas?
Day 2: Preparing for Trials with Faith
The concept of "pre-deciding" involves preparing ourselves spiritually and emotionally for the inevitable trials we will face. By identifying scriptures, songs, and trusted individuals that can support us, we can strengthen our faith and remain steadfast during difficult times. This proactive approach to faith allows us to respond with resilience and trust, even when our beliefs are tested. By turning to these resources, we can fortify our faith and navigate life's challenges with confidence. [09:15]
Ephesians 6:13 (ESV): "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm."
Reflection: What specific scriptures, songs, or people can you rely on to support your faith during challenging times? How can you incorporate these resources into your daily routine to prepare for future trials?
Day 3: Embracing Doubt as a Path to Deeper Faith
Thomas and Philip, two of Jesus's disciples, struggled with doubt and sought understanding. Jesus met them with grace and patience, encouraging them to believe in His works and words. This interaction highlights that having questions and doubts is a natural part of the faith journey. Rather than disqualifying us from His love, these moments can lead to a deeper understanding and stronger belief in Jesus. Embracing our doubts and seeking clarity can ultimately strengthen our faith. [13:46]
Jude 1:22 (ESV): "And have mercy on those who doubt."
Reflection: What doubts or questions do you currently have about your faith? How can you seek understanding and clarity in these areas, trusting that Jesus meets you with grace and patience?
Day 4: The Strength of Community in Faith
We are not meant to navigate our faith journey alone. Being part of a supportive community provides encouragement and strength when our belief is challenged. Jesus's care for His disciples exemplifies the importance of nurturing and uplifting one another in faith. By surrounding ourselves with fellow believers, we can find the support we need to remain steadfast in our faith and grow together in our spiritual journey. [16:23]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: Who are the people in your life that form your faith community? How can you actively contribute to and draw strength from this community in your spiritual journey?
Day 5: Living Out Greater Works Through Collective Faith
Jesus's promise that we will do greater works than He did is a call to action for believers. By multiplying our efforts and faith, we can witness and participate in miraculous works that glorify God. This potential is realized through collective belief and reliance on the Holy Spirit. As we grow in our faith, we are called to be a light to the world, pointing others to the truth of Jesus's teachings and participating in His mission. [21:55]
John 14:12 (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."
Reflection: What specific actions can you take today to live out the promise of doing greater works through your faith? How can you collaborate with others in your community to amplify your impact for God's glory?
Quotes
Belief is very important, so much so that believe is mentioned six times in the passage that Amy read. It begins with, Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in me. My Father's house has many rooms. If that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? [00:05:15] (24 seconds)
He was still instructing those who were following him. He was still making sure that they understood these last moments. These final moments. These final hours. To believe in the work he was doing. And to believe in the Father. Amy read a Mm -hmm. [00:03:55] (20 seconds)
Now, Thomas gets a bad rap in the Bible, right? I mean, he's often referred to as doubting Thomas. And this is because of upon Jesus's resurrection, the other disciples have seen him. But Thomas says, until I can place my finger in the holes of his hand, or until I can place my hand in his side, I will not believe. [00:11:12] (22 seconds)
Thomas just wants to make sure that he gets things right. His questions or his doubts do not disqualify him. They actually strengthen his belief in Jesus. [00:11:35] (16 seconds)
Philip comes along and says, Lord, show us the father and that will be enough for us. Jesus answered, don't you know me, Philip, even after I've been among you for such a long time? Anyone who has seen the father, how can you say, show us the father? Don't you believe that I am in the father and that the father is in me? [00:12:04] (22 seconds)
Both of these disciples have questions because they don't fully understand what Jesus is speaking of. They are likely hurting, probably scared and unsure of what the future holds. Remember Jesus, their Messiah, their rabbi, their brother, their friend had just told them that he is going to go die. [00:13:03] (24 seconds)
And if you have never heard it before, let me tell you today, it's okay to ask your questions. It's okay to go to God with your questions and your hurts and your sorrows. In fact, in the Old Testament, the book of Psalms, over half of them are laments. [00:13:25] (19 seconds)
I want to encourage you to get in the life. community that can support you. We're not made to do life alone. I don't know what the percentage of our church that's in small groups here, but I want to tell you to find one, get in one. You need a group of folks that can encourage you and love you and come alongside you when you need it most. [00:14:12] (25 seconds)
Because that's what Jesus is doing here. He is caring for his small group. He is encouraging his small group. He is attending to the needs of his small group. He started by saying, do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in me. [00:14:35] (20 seconds)
Jesus goes on to say, very truly, I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing and they will do even greater things in these because I am going to the Father and I will do whatever you ask in my name so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. [00:15:21] (19 seconds)
In those miraculous stories that there was healing or reconciliation, that what had been shared with me, that the person that was in the moment, that was living in the moment, or the people that were around them, the community around them, their faith was strong, their belief was strong, so that they had lifted up prayers to God. [00:16:33] (21 seconds)
And before we close There are a couple of groups In this church And online that I want to talk to And there's For the first one For those of you who are in a good place right now Everything's going well And that's awesome I pray that it's a long season of it For those of y 'all I want you to pre -decide What you will do When your belief is challenged Because chances are That time will come As I said earlier When I was going through that season I had to pre -decide what I would do One of those things that I did Is I decided that There were certain scripture passages I would turn to Now it doesn't mean That I would memorize passages It just meant that I had passages I would turn to About God's faithfulness About God's good works So I will turn to those There are Those who know me Know I love music There are two songs That I will automatically Probably play on repeat Even if by Mercy Me And Hallelujah Anyway By Wren Collective So if you hear those playing on loop Come pray for me Okay? [00:19:05] (76 seconds)
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