Practicing the Way: Jesus and Fear

Listen in as we look at John 14:1-7 and see how Jesus prepares his people in the face of fear.

Sermon Notes/Quotes:

John 14:1-6

“The simplest explanation is best: my Father’s house refers to heaven, and in heaven are many rooms, many dwelling-places. The point is not the lavishness of each apartment, but the fact that such ample provision has been made that there is more than enough space for every one of Jesus’ disciples to join him in his Father’s home.” - D.A. Carson

It is Jesus who is heading for the agony of the cross; it is Jesus who is deeply ‘troubled’ in heart (12:27) and spirit (13:21). Yet on this night of nights, when of all times it would have been appropriate for Jesus’ followers to lend him emotional and spiritual support, he is still the one who gives, comforts, instructs. For they, too, are troubled—not because they are rushing toward pain, shame, and crucifixion, but because they are confused, uncertain of what Jesus means, and threatened by references to his imminent departure. - D.A. Carson

John 16:33

“We want so desperately to be in control. If only we can read enough articles, or wash our hands frequently enough, or time the market just right, then maybe we'll be okay. I'm acting like if I read enough, maybe I can get some control back. But the virus strips away our illusions and shows us the reality that we weren't in control to begin with.” Maxwell Anderson, The Weekend Reader

1 John 4:15-21

2 Timothy 1:7

“I don’t think God tells us not to be afraid because things aren’t frightening. Things are scary, but God is holding us. He is our security.” - Trillia Newbell

“Never, never pin your whole faith on any human thing: not if it is the best and wisest thing in the whole world. There are lots of nice things you can do with sand; but do not build a house on it.” - CS Lewis

“We could approach these coming days just as an excuse to binge watch Netflix (thought surely some of that ain't so bad!), but the real opportunity before us is to 1) seek God. If God exists, now would be a good time to figure that out and 2) love other people courageously. The natural thing is for us to look out only for ourselves. But each of us have people in our lives whom we can look out for and help. If you get to the end of your newsfeed and are feeling discouraged, you might check out this opportunity to seek God and love other people.” - Maxwell Anderson, The Weekend Reader

“Look for precedents in unprecedented times. Here’s a few;

God is always faithful (Heb 10:23)

God is with us (Josh 1:9)

God is for us (Rom 8:31)

God is good (Psalm 119:68

God delivers (Psalm 34:4)

God sustains (Psalm 54:4)

God hears (Psalm 66:19)” - Christine Cain

“The most useful form of patience is persistence.

Patience implies waiting for things to improve on their own.

Persistence implies keeping your head down and continuing to work when things take longer than you expect.” - James Clear

Our Lens For This Season:

• We look to be aware, not alarmist
• We look to be present, and patient, not panicked
• We look to show love locally
• We look to connect before correct

What is being revealed in you in this season?

How does being safe in Jesus free you to love and serve others?