Jesus Comforts His Disciples in John 14

Read John chapter 14

Introduction: In John 14, Jesus comforts his disciples with the promise of a future home in heaven and the gift of the Holy Spirit. He assures them that even though he will be leaving them physically, they will not be alone. This chapter is a beautiful reminder of the hope and peace that comes from trusting in Jesus and his promises.

I. The Promise of a Place in Heaven (John 14:1-4)
In these verses, Jesus tells his disciples not to be troubled because he is going to prepare a place for them in heaven. He talks about mansions in heaven that await those who put their trust and faith in Him. Whether this is literal mansions or residences, I am not sure, but surely it will be grand if Jesus prepared it for us. He assures them that he will come back for them so that they can be with him forever.

Cross reference verses for this scripture:

• Psalm 23:6 – “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” This verse relates to the promise of a heavenly home that Jesus gives to his disciples.
• Hebrews 11:16 – “But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one.” This verse speaks to the longing for a heavenly home that Jesus addresses in John 14.
• Revelation 21:2 – “And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God.” This verse describes the heavenly home that Jesus is preparing for his followers.

II. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:5-7)
Jesus tells his disciples that he is the only way to the Father and that by knowing him, they also know the Father. There are many religions, but their is only one truth that will set you free, give  you an eternity in Heaven, and allow you to live life more abundantly while here.

Cross reference verses for this section of verses:

• Acts 4:12 – “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” This verse supports Jesus’ claim that he is the only way to the Father.
• Colossians 2:9 – “For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily.” This verse affirms Jesus’ statement that by knowing him, we know the Father.
• 1 Timothy 2:5 – “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” This verse reinforces the idea that Jesus is the mediator between us and God.

III. The Promise of the Holy Spirit (John 14:15-17)
Jesus promises his disciples that he will send the Holy Spirit to be with them forever, as a helper and a comforter. And He promises to give them a peace, not as the world knows peace, but an inner peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).  The Bible speaks of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2:33, the Bible says, being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing. This verse shows the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to send the Holy Spirit. In Romans 8:26, the Bible speaks of the work of the Holy Spirit, likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. This verse speaks to the role and work of the Holy Spirit as a helper for us. In 2 Corinthians 1:22, God tells us we are sealed by the Spirit, “and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.” This verse affirms the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of our inheritance in Christ.

Conclusion: John 14 is a chapter full of hope and comfort for believers all over the world. Jesus promises his disciples a place in heaven, reveals himself as the way, the truth, and the life, and assures them of the coming of the Holy Spirit. These promises are not just for the disciples, but for all who believe in Jesus, and have trusted in His name. We can find peace in knowing that we have a heavenly home waiting for us, a Savior who is the only way to the Father, and the Holy Spirit who is with us every step of the way in this lifetime.