Theme

When we feel unsettled we can trust Jesus’ leading

Questions

• This passage is the beginning of Jesus’ farewell words to his disciples. He begins by saying “do not let your hearts be troubled” (v.1). What are some of the things which make you feel troubled or unsettled at the moment?
• “Do not let your hearts be troubled” is an instruction from Jesus. How does believing (putting your trust) in God help when you feel troubled?
• How do verses 2-4 offer comfort for troubled hearts? Are there words or phrases which you find especially comforting?
• Jesus has spoken about going away, but he has also spoken about his followers have a place with him, prepared by him. Thomas speaks up and questions what Jesus is saying (v.5). Thomas wants clear directions from Jesus – do you think Jesus’ answer (v.6-7) is clear?
• When Jesus calls himself ‘the way, the truth and the life’ what do you think he is saying about himself?
• What are the significance of each of the words way, truth and life? How do these words offer hope to Jesus’ followers?
• What do you think Jesus means by “no one comes to the father except through me”? [Compare with Jesus’ words in John 8:21-25 and John 10:7-9].
• One of the earliest titles for followers of Jesus, found in the book of Acts, was followers of the Way.
  • What do you think of this title – does it appeal to you or not?
  • How does being a follower of the way describe your life in Christ?
• In three of the “I am” sayings in John’s gospel Jesus mentions life (the Bread of Life, the Resurrection and the Life, and the Way, the Truth and the Life). Why do you think Jesus described himself as “life” so often? What is significant about it?
• Philip seems to be struggling with what Jesus is saying about himself (v.8-9).
  • Are there times when you find it hard to believe who Jesus is?
  • What helps you find trust again in who he is? [in v.10-11 Jesus speaks about his words and his actions – does recalling Jesus’ words, or remembering your experiences of God help trust again?]
• At the end of the passage, Jesus speaks about the future once he has returned to the father. V.12 begins with words of emphasis (‘amen, amen’, usually translated ‘I tell you the truth’). What do you think Jesus means by those who have faith in him doing greater works that him?
• Look at v.13-14. Is Jesus saying that God will grant our every wish as long as we pray in his name? Why/why not?
• How does trusting that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life settle troubled hearts and give hope for living?