Monday 28 October 2024
"You also are to testify because you have been with me from the beginning." (v. 27)
Background
Today’s reading comes in the middle of a long section that begins in chapter 13 and extends to the end of chapter 17 in which Jesus is speaking to his disciples. It’s set just before the beginning of Passover and follows John’s account of Jesus washing his disciples feet at their last meal together (John 13:1-10). Jesus foretells his betrayal (John 13:21-30), and Peter’s denial (John 13:36-38), gives a new commandment, that they love one another (John 13:34), promises that the Holy Spirit will be with them when he has gone (John 14:16), and describes his relationship with God as father and son, including his illustration of the true vine (John 15:1-9).
However, amid the positivity about love, peace and a close relationship with God comes the stark message that following Jesus brings pain and hardship. Jesus pulls no punches and repeatedly, as in today’s reading, makes it clear to his disciples that life will be tough as result of doing what he has commanded them. Rather than becoming popular and celebrated they will find that “the world hates you” (v. 19). Indeed in the next chapter he makes this even clearer: “They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, an hour is coming when those who kill you will think that by doing so they are offering worship to God.” (John 16:2).
Jesus says this from direct experience. Throughout his ministry the world “hated me before it hated you”. (v. 18) And yet they have also “hated me without a cause” (v. 25). Despite the evidence of the work and ministry of Jesus, his critics have not really seen what was actually happening and as a result not seen God at work among them (v. 24). They have chosen the way of the world rather the way of God.
Jesus is not suggesting his followers do anything he hasn’t already done. And in doing this he also makes it clear they will not be alone, they will be helped and strengthened with the “Spirit of truth who comes from the Father” (v. 26).
To Ponder:
- Consider how we should respond to a world where social media is fuelled by 'likes' and success judged by popularity and the number of shared messages.
- What is the difference in “belonging to the world” and being “chosen out of the world”? Is it possible to be “so heavenly minded to be no earthly good”?
Prayer
Loving God, we thank you for the assurance that you will be with us at every stage of our lives, through the ups and downs of every day, in the difficult times as well as the good. Guide us, through your Spirit, as we face the challenges of living in the world and witnessing to your love for all. Amen.
Bible notes author: Dr Richard Vautrey
Dr Richard Vautrey is a local preacher and church steward in Leeds, and a former Vice-President of the Methodist Conference. He works as a GP and is a former chair of the BMA's GP committee.