Connect John 16:31 with another instance of doubt in the Gospels. Setting the Moment in the Upper Room John 16:31: “Do you finally believe?” • Jesus has just revealed stunning truths about His return to the Father and the coming of the Spirit (John 16:5-15). • The disciples respond, “Now You are speaking plainly… we believe You came from God” (16:29-30). • Jesus immediately tests that claim—He knows their professed certainty will soon collide with fear and scattering (16:32). An Earlier Storm of Doubt on the Lake Matthew 14:31: “Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. ‘You of little faith,’ He said, ‘why did you doubt?’” • Peter stepped out of the boat in bold confidence, literally walking on water toward Jesus (14:28-29). • The wind distracted him; his gaze shifted from Christ to the waves, and he began to sink (14:30). • Jesus rescued him and pinpointed the issue: not the storm, but Peter’s divided focus and faltering trust. Connecting the Two Scenes • Both episodes follow affirmations of faith—words in the Upper Room, footsteps on the water. • Jesus’ challenge (“Do you finally believe?” / “Why did you doubt?”) exposes the thin line between bold confession and shaky conviction. • In each case, the disciples need more than momentary confidence; they need Spirit-empowered perseverance (John 14:16-17; Acts 2:4). • The Lord does not abandon them: He rescues Peter physically and promises the Spirit to fortify all of them spiritually. Key Lessons for Every Disciple • Genuine faith is proven in pressure. Assurance voiced in calm must stand when storms or persecution arise (1 Peter 1:6-7). • Doubt often enters when focus shifts from Christ’s sufficiency to surrounding circumstances (Hebrews 12:2-3). • Jesus confronts doubt, yet He also compassionately upholds those who falter (Jude 24). Living It Out • Keep eyes “fixed on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (Hebrews 12:2). • Anchor confidence in His unchanging Word, not in fluctuating feelings or external stability (Psalm 119:105; Matthew 24:35). • Rely on the Holy Spirit—the promised Helper—to turn confessed belief into steadfast endurance (John 14:26; Romans 8:11). |
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