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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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INTRODUCTION The Gospel of John, from 13:31 to the end of chapter 16, is a single unit of thought. It is interrupted only by the questions of the disciples and the chapter divisions. This being true, we need to recall the setting for the words we study in this week's lesson. Jesus had just celebrated the Passover, inaugurating the Lord's Supper, and He washed the disciples' feet. In a gracious way Jesus dismissed the betrayer and then spoke to His true followers of His own impending death. How paradoxical that Jesus spoke of this as being "glorified," but this was His reason for coming to the world in the first place. Following the interruption by Peter, the Lord returned to the task of preparing His disciples for His coming departure. How did He do it? By asking for faith, by talking about Heaven, and by declaring His oneness with the Father. When we face death, our own or that of a loved one, we can find solace in these truths as well. Let's do our best to understand them. Comfort for the Disciples John 14:1-4) Jesus begins with a plea to His followers. He asked them not to be "troubled." This was a difficult thing for the disciples. After all, Jesus had just announced His own impending death, and the Lord Himself was "troubled in spirit" according to 13:21. The word troubled literally means to be stirred up and is used that way in John 5:4. The Lord is not saying that they couldn't grieve, just that there must be the stabilizing force of faith in God and in Him. Without such faith the disciples then, as well as now, can be swept down in a whirlpool of emotion. The second phrase of verse 1 is open to some debate. Without getting too technical, the question is a matter of the interpretation of the word believe. Many have tended to take this phrase to mean, "Since you believe in God, believe now in Me." Others have sug- gested that this is a double exhortation, that the first part is not assumed. Since the Greek can be taken either way, perhaps both ideas are meant. One other idea, however, does suggest itself which might be paraphrased, "In the same way that you believe in God, believe in Me." This had a particular impact upon the disciples. They had not seen God the Father, and yet they believed in Him. Shortly, God' the Son would be taken from them and they were asked to exhibit that same sort of faith in Him. This is, by the way, one of the strongest assertions by Jesus of His equality With the Father. Those who contend that Jesus never claimed divinity apparently are ignorant of this passage. In verse 2, Jesus comforted His followers with the idea of His preparations for them. He talks about Heaven and calls it "my Father's house." Someone has pointed out that Heaven is called a "country" in Luke 19: 12, speaking of its vastness. It is called a "city" in Hebrews 11 and Revelation 21, which implies a large number of residents. The reference to Heaven as a "kingdom" in 2 Peter 1:11 suggests orderliness, and the "paradise" of Luke 23 implies its delights. When Christ calls Heaven "my Father's house," it is likely that the emphasis is on its permanence. The word "mansions" literally means "abiding places." But do not misunderstand me. These "abiding places" will be "mansions" in the fullest sense. The disciples also received comfort from verse 3. Just as certainly as Jesus was leaving them He would return. What's more, the Lord promised a personal reception for these followers. And in eternity, there will be no separation between Christ and His children. With verse 4 Jesus returns to the subject of His death, and states that this is something which the disciples should have understood. He had stressed that His death was the very reason for His life. Practica1 Application Which is more characteristic of you, trouble or trust? Concern for the Future John 14:5-14) Still, the disciples did not understand, and Thomas was willing to speak up and say so. He frankly confessed that the disciples were confused about where Jesus was going, and that being true, how could they understand the way? We shouldn't be too hard on Thomas; after all, this question prompted one of the greatest sayings of Jesus. Note that the Lord used the definite article before each of the qualities He ascribed to Himself. The point is that Jesus is not "a" way, truth, or life; He is "the" way, truth, and life. What's more He states, "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me." Verse 6 is the clearest possible declaration that Christ is the only way to Heaven. Close on the heels of the interruption by Thomas came a question from Philip. In verse 7 the Lord elaborates on the fact that He is the pathway to the Father. Since the disciples knew Jesus, they knew the Father. Christ is saying that He is the revelation of the Father. In 1:18 it was stated that Jesus declared the Father. This takes that concept one step further. Then Philip's question: "Lord, shew us the Father!" The word which is rendered shew is a strong one in the Greek text and could have been translated "exhibit." Philip missed the Lord's point in verse 7, and the disappointment of the Lord is expressed in verse 9. In even clearer terms Jesus states that to see Him is to see the Father. That disappointment is evident in the question of verse 10. Did the disciples really believe thatJesus was in the Father and the Father was in Him? Essentially, in verse 11 the Lord is saying, "Take my word for this, but if you can't do that believe on the basis of my works."
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Betty Gallion Audrey Gartin John B. Gilman, Jr. Polly Gilman Reather Gilman Della Goodwin Fred Goodwin Bart Gore Casey Gore Karen Gore Linda Gore Marie Gore Micki Gore Donella Grubb Diane Hall Ernie Hall Herbert Hall June Hall Lahoma Hall Larry Hall Donald Halstead Larry & Donna Hardesty Darlene Hartwick Joey Harvey Charles Hatfield Con Hatfield Dakota Hatfield Danny Hatfield Dee Hatfield Diane Hatfield Greg Hatfield Jack Hatfield Leander Hatfield Lee Hatfield Shirley Henderson Carrie Henk Delores Hicks Chuck Hilbert Larry Holstein Rachel Honaker Karen Hopkins Johnathan Hubert Sandy Huffman Jerry Hunt Hope Johnson John Johnson Molly Johnson Sheila Johnson Christian Johnston Elaine Jones Benny & Wanda Justice Debbie Justice Teresa Justice Tim Justice Pat Kennedy Karen Kinnan Barbara Kulchuk Justin Lester Carol Lewis Delcie Lighthall Crystal Lockhart Ryan Lockhart Wanda Lockhart Brian Maddy Ashley Martin Jack Martin Jean Martin Larry Martin Ben Marshall Gene Mathis Zena Mathis Darren Mayhorn Janet Mayhorn Thomas Mayhorn Brenda Maynard JoAnn Maynard John Maynard Madison Maynard Philip Maynard Thomas McCallister Betty McClellan Bill McClellan Johnna McGuire Gary McGuire David Meade Dennis Meade Taylor Meade Jo Meadows Leeberta Meadows Steve Meadows Delores Messer Grant Miles Goldie Miller Ora Miller Pam Miller Teresa Miller Jason Milum Marsha Minski Joyce Mitchell Marilyn Mitchell Nadine Mitchell Bryan Montgomery Fannie Moore Stacie Moore William Morris John Moses Bennie Mullins Brenda Mullins Helen Mullins Jim Mullins Kennis Mullins Melissa Mullins Ruby Mullins Sara Mullins Jessie Murray John W. Napier Linda Napier Ann Nelson Diana Nelson Ginger Nelson Harriet Nelson Jess Nelson Johnny Nelson Michael Nelson Paul Nelson Randy Nelson Faynelle Newhouse Phil Nicholas Sue Noble Francis Norman J. C. Norman Beatrice Nunley Misty Nunley Todd Nunley
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Bonnie Ooten Butch Ooten Gander Ooten Marion Ooten Family Tim Ooten Dondi Osborne J.P. Owens Darlene Page Amy Parsons Joyce Patterson Melissa Patterson Grace Payne Donald Paynter Lowell Perry Tommy Perry Sr Jeannie Pinkerman Debbie Porter Pauline Porter Barbara Pridemore Bob Pridemore Jonathan Pridemore Becky Prince Jamie Prince Van Prince Peanut Queen Mike Reese Nancy Risko Kathy Rockel Glenna Robinson Tony Ross Deborah Runyon James Runyon Joe Runyon Peggy Ryder Geri Sanger Ronnie Sanger David Sartin Bill Saunders John Saunders Gene Sawyer Dave Sexton Drema Sexton Stacy Sexton Andrea Sheppard Luther Sheppard Moses Silica Steve Simpkins Mary Sissie Pat Skaggs Reba Skeans Kenny Sluss Ballard Smith Barbara Smith Clarence Smith Damone Smith Harold Smith Jan Smith Jonathan Spence Margaret Spence Edwin Spencer Gary Spencer Zenia Springfellow Bertha Spry Liz Spurlock Peggy Stephens Alan Stepp Gene Stepp Greg Stidham Ricky Stollings Sandy Stout Bucky Sumler Thelma Sumler Paul Thomas Bill J. Thompson Billy Thompson Charlotte Thompson Deana Thompson Fred Thompson Jack Thompson Linda Thompson Mary Thompson Matt Thompson Merl Thompson Milford Thompson
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Alex Adams Daniel Adams Amy Adkins Bruce Adkins Jason Adkins Dennis Adkins James & Lula Adkins James T. Adkins Lucille Adkins Michael Adkins Nicholas Adkins Raymond Adkins Timmy Aiden Madeline Allen Johnny Armstrong Jim Bailey Kay Bailey Perry Bailey Betty Baisden Bruce Baisden, Jr. Bruce Baisden, Sr. Jeffrey Baisden Elouise Baldwin Norman Baldwin Brenda Barker Candy Barrett Donnie Barrett Lee Belcher Shirley Smith Debbie Booth Janice Borth Brad Bowens Janice Bowens Kenny Bowens Danny Bowman Bob Boytek Frankie Bragg Judy Brandam Billy Brewer Charles Brewer Dottie Brewer Eric Brewer Minerva Brewer Zeffie Brogan Chick Browning Robert Browning William Browning Lilly Mae Bryant Raymond Burgess W.E. Burgess Liz Burton Joetta Bush Sue Bush Darrell Butcher Denise Butcher Joretta Butcher Bob Campbell Michael Campbell Noah Canterbury Dave Carter Deloris Carter Gary Carter Hershel Carter Hershel Carter, Jr. Leigh Ann Carter Lillian Chambers Juanita Christian Steve Churchill Wanda Churchill Angie Claycomb Jonathan Click Phyllis Colley Bob Collier Linda Cook Paul Corbett Lois Cox Donna Craddock Freida Cramer Ron Cramer, Sr Rayna Criswell Sue Curry Bill Curtis Hunter Darnell Charles Daughton Chuckie Davis Gary Dempsey Jannie Dempsey John B Dempsey Johnny Dempsey James Deskins Henry C. Dillon David Dingess Dink Dingess Exie Dingess Gail Dingess Violet Duncan Larry Dunford Florence Elkins Betty Ellis Ernie Ellis John C Ellis Liz Ellis Lloyd Ellis Sylvia Ellis Virginia Ellixson Bill Epperly Blanche Epperly Harrison Epperly Dottie Estep John Estep Julie Estep Paul Estep Angie Evans Anita Evans Caleb Evans Maie Evans Johnny Faine Rodney Farmer Tina Ferguson Chantel Finley Tiffani Finley Lorraine Fraley Adelle Fletcher Al Fletcher & Son Jim Fletcher Susie Fletcher Fay Fry Ocil Frye Jonathan Fuller |
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20 Whitman Community Church, Whitman, WV |
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The Caring Church |
