These are the answers to the Bible study for the March devotional in the Encourager’s Devotional Series. Where responses may vary, I have not listed specific answers, but I would love to hear some of yours in the comments.
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In John 14:27, Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
This passage is set in the midst of a long discussion that Jesus had with his disciples, in which He was trying to prepare them for future events. What did Jesus know was about to happen? (see John 13:1,21,33; 14:2,19-20,28; 17:1-5,11)
- He was going to leave this world and go to the Father.
- One of the disciples was going to betray Him.
- He would not be with them much longer.
- He was going to prepare a place for them and would return to take them with Him.
- They would see Him even when the world could not because He would be in them.
- He would be coming back.
- He would be glorified.
- The Father would protect them.
Read the entire discussion (John 13:1-17:26). What things in this passage let us know that “peace” according to Jesus does not mean absence of trouble? (see 15:18-20; 16:32-33; 17:14-15)
- They would be hated and persecuted just as Jesus was.
- Jesus says, “In this world you will have trouble.”
- Jesus prayed they would be protected from the evil one, suggesting that the evil one would be out to harm them.
You may remember from January’s study that the word for encourage in Greek is parakaleson (parakavleson). In that case, it is used as a verb and has a broad range of meaning – from exhort, admonish, and urge strongly to comfort and come alongside someone. The same word is used as a noun (parakletos) in John 14:26, 15:26, and 16:7. Depending on your translation, the word may be interpreted as advocate, counselor, comforter, or helper. In these passages in John, the word is being used in reference to the Holy Spirit. Continue reading
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