Today’s devotion comes from John 16:28-33.
“I came forth from the Father and have come into the world; I am leaving the world again and going to the Father.”
His disciples *said, “Lo, now You are speaking plainly and are not using a figure of speech. Now we know that You know all things, and have no need for anyone to question You; by this we believe that You came from God.” Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:28-33.
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How could Jesus’ words (“These things I have spoken to you”) about the disciples give peace?
Consider that Jesus just told His disciples: “Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered”. How could those words give the disciples peace?
Other doctrine just cannot understand how those words about the disciples being “scattered” could give the disciples peace, because other doctrine focuses on man and teaches that man gains peace by controlling and making his own surrounding world peaceful.
But, Reformed Doctrine can understand how those words about the disciples being “scattered” could give the disciples peace, because Reformed Doctrine understands that Scripture humbles man to turn the focus on God and God’s love and care for His elect (even though they may be “scattered”) and that God gives peace to His elect even though their surrounding world may give them tribulation.
Q. 26. What believest thou when thou sayest, “I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth”?
A. That the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (who of nothing made heaven and earth, with all that is in them; who likewise upholds and governs the same by His eternal counsel and providence) is, for the sake of Christ His Son, my God and my Father; on whom I rely so entirely, that I have no doubt but He will provide me with all things necessary for soul and body; and further, that He will make whatever evils He sends upon me, in this valley of tears, turn out to my advantage; for He is able to do it, being Almighty God, and willing, being a faithful Father. Heidelberg Catechism.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:23-24.
Other doctrine trusts man.
But, Reformed Doctrine trusts God.
Other doctrine trusts man’s alleged free-will.
But, Reformed Doctrine trusts God’s Sovereign and Almighty Power.
“The LORD has established His throne in the heavens,
And His sovereignty rules over all.” Psalm 103:19.
Other doctrine bases its hope on man overcoming the world.
But, Reformed doctrine bases its hope on the fact that Jesus has overcome the world.
“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” Verse 33.
“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” John 14:27.
Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions 