THE FULLNESS OF LIFE

Sermon Notes, May 19, 2013

Rev. Gary Smith

 

Pastor Gary’s message was titled “The Fullness of Life,” and was based on John 14.  Sometimes we find ourselves feeling all alone in the midst of change. 

In this chapter Jesus is preparing his disciples for his departure.  He’s been with them, day and night, for three years, and now he’s getting them ready for his death.  Jesus has been the glue that holds them together.  In verse 8, Philip says “Show us the Father.”  Jesus tells them that they’ve seen the Father, in him, and that what he has taught them has come from the Father.  God gave Moses Ten Commandments.  Over time, men had added over 900 rules that were supposed to clarify those commandments, but instead had made them nearly impossible to keep up with.  

They’ve seen how Jesus has kept law of the Father.  He has taught that LOVE is the difference in keeping the law.  Keep God’s law because you love him, not just to follow the rules.  We are to love like Jesus does, knowing that if we do wrong we hurt him.  Furthermore, we don’t have to do it alone.  He will help us.

He knows us.  In verses 15-21 Jesus tells us that he is sending his Spirit to be with us, and that He will be in us, making us full, content, and satisfied.  There’s a big difference between being with and being in.  Jesus is telling us that the same Spirit that is in him will be in us, teaching us and reminding us of all he’s taught us.

Jesus is leaving us a legacy.  In verses 26-27 he is giving us peace, the same peace we have seen in him.  This peace comes from the Spirit of God.  It brings us calmness, knowing that God is in control.

Jesus told his disciples all this before it happened, so they would be ready when it came.  And all he said and promised is still for us today.  We are not alone in the midst of change.