Victory in Jesus

Posted on November 13, 2018 by Mike

Beginning in chapter 14 of the Book of John, after Judas, who is about to betray Jesus, has left the room, Jesus spends a good deal of time giving His disciples their final teaching. This is really a restatement of many of the things He has taught them already, and it is foundational to our walk with Jesus. He begins by once again making clear He and God the Father are one.

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” John 14:6-7 (NIV)

We come to know and understand God by knowing and understanding Jesus. This is why Bible study is so important. The Word of God is our one true connection to Jesus, and therefore God the Father. Jesus then told His disciples there is more to come.

“If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth.” John 14:15-17 (NIV)

Jesus and the Father are one and that union is empowered by the “Spirit of truth.” Jesus tells the disciples that if they keep his commands they too will be filled with the Spirit of truth – the Holy Spirit.

Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” John 14:23 (NIV)

The Holy Spirit inside of every follower of Jesus is our direct connection to God. We maintain our connection to God by continuing to follow the teachings of Jesus.

“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.” John 15:4 (NIV)

Following Jesus is easily summarized into one simple statement.

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” John 15:12 (NIV)

Jesus warned His disciples that there would be opposition. The world we live in is filled with the devil’s demons who are actively trying to disrupt God’s ultimate plan. Followers of Jesus are not of this world.

“If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.” John 15:19 (NIV)

Finally, Jesus told His disciples He was going away but he would return. Indeed, we all are waiting for that glorious day!

Jesus went on to say, “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.” John 16:16 (NIV)

The world we live in is not a pleasant place. It was designed this way so that we can learn to overcome evil. This is our training ground. In the end we will have victory.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NIV)

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