John 16:31-33 - Homiletics

The faith now acknowledged was destined to be severely tried.

I. THE FAITH OF THE DISCIPLES WAS GENUINE , BUT INCOMPLETE . "Now ye believe."

1. Trial is needed to test the existence and strength of faith .

2. It was a mark of our Lord ' s love and wisdom to warn the disciples of coming trial .

3. Their desertion of their Master here foretold must have been incredible to their minds . "Behold, the hour cometh … that ye shall be scattered every man to his own, and shall leave me alone."

4. Our Lord had a consolation in prospect of their desertion . "And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me."

II. THE DESIGN OF OUR LORD 'S PARTING ADDRESS TO HIS DISCIPLES . "These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace."

1. The precious legacy of Christ to his people is peace .

2. The guarantee of peace . "Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."