How to Know the Way John 14:1-6

The marvels of GPS… We finally purchased a new GPS… We traveled 3600 miles over two weeks... The GPS provides many nice features... Our text today gives insight on knowing the way through life and beyond...

I. There is a Promise of Provision Amid Separation “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:1–2, NKJV)

A. Peace and security are based on a foundation of proper trust The anticipated departure did not mean abandonment Such departure required ongoing trust in a valid source

B. Promises of future provision are only as good as the provider There was good reason why the disciples should not be troubled The emphasis of this verse is a departure for a purpose The phrase “My Father’s house” means heaven, the abode of God The phrase translated “many mansions” is more generic than it sounds

II. There is a Promise of Return and Reception “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.” (John 14:3–4, NKJV)

A. This is a clear reference to Christ’s intention to return There are many views as to which return is intended here There are good reasons to view this as the rapture

B. This is an indication that this was not completely new They knew of the destination that was in view They knew the one who alone could get them there They did not know some elements as well…

III. There is a Definitive and Exclusive Way to God “Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:5–6, NKJV)

A. There was an understanding of a real place and way The questions indicate a certain understanding The questions indicate a certain expectation

B. There was a clarification with exclusive definition This was highly definitive and theologically loaded This highly exclusive statement is strongly offensive (but also comforting!)