John – Chapter 14:1-17
Jesus is the way to the Father for those who believe in Him. The Introduction (v.31-38) announced the theme of Jesus’ departure. The Farewell Discourse (14:1ff) is concerned with the problems of what will happen to the disciples He leaves behind. Unlike that of the Synoptic Gospels, it’s not apocalyptic but concerned with the continuing fellowship of Jesus with His disciples on earth. That fellowship comes through the gift of the Paraclete who helps them as they continue in the conflict with the world. v. 1-2 “Let not your heart be troubled” – His statement is first a pastoral word of comfort their inner dejection and agitation (12:27; Ps 6:3). He also appeals to them to believe in Him. Faith in Jesus is faith in the Father. v. 3 “I go and prepare a place for you” – Jesus puts the disciples’ coming time on earth in the perspective of His final return to take Him to where He is (see end of ch. 17). Their future isn’t only the road travelled but the destination. Jesus is teaching the church to understand herself in terms of union with Him. “House” is a term for the place where God resides frequently in the OT. Usually, “House of God” refers to the temple, not heaven. Yet, here Jesus’ says that heaven is His Father’s house. What makes it His Father’s house is that it has many rooms. Jesus is returning to the theme introduced in 8:35 as Son of the house. The place is prepared (Mt. 25:34; Mk 10:40; 1 Co. 2:9; Hb. 11:16; 1 Pet 1:4). What Paul describes in terms of the future apocalypse (1 Th. 4:16ff), John describes in immediate personal terms (cf. 17:23ff). v. 4-5 “You know the Way” – As much as the disciples may regret His leaving, Jesus encourages them that they know the destination and goal. Thomas’ doubt is on display here again, with all respect (11:16; 20:24f). He speaks for all the disciples. They do not understand his leaving and what that will mean for his messiahship. v.6 “I AM” – Jesus’ response is the core statement of the entire Gospel! It is the last and all-encompassing “I AM” statement. He calls Himself the Way, the only access to the Father. He is the truth, as in the true vine that will yield fruit (Jer 2:21). He gives life because…