Do You Believe?

John 16:29-33 Then his disciples said, “At last you are speaking plainly and not figuratively. 30 Now we understand that you know everything, and there’s no need to question you. From this we believe that you came from God.” 31 Jesus asked, “Do you finally believe? 32 But the time is coming – indeed it’s here now – when you will be scattered, each one going his own way, leaving me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

THE disciples have confessed, “We believe.” But Jesus challenges them. He knows the next thing they will do is flee from Jesus’ arrest, the trial and the cross. They will not believe the news, “He is risen!” To indicate they faithfully believed Jesus, they would need to remain steadfast to support him through the grave and prepare to welcome his resurrection. Their words did not agree with actions.
   Here’s a response to this passage from Dr. R.C. Sproul:
 
Jesus’ response to the disciples’ confession was one of righteous indignation. When Jesus answered them, “Do you really believe?” it’s almost as if He were saying: “Oh, now you believe? Where have you been for the past three years? Where were you when I told you that the Son of Man had to go forth to die?” Then he said again to affirm what would happen: “But the time is coming – indeed it’s here now – when you will be scattered, each one going his own way, leaving me alone..”  
 
Jesus said in essence, “You may be full of belief and trust now, but it isn’t going to last. When you see the swords of the Roman soldiers being brandished in the moonlight, you’re going to run for your lives, and you’re going to leave Me alone.”
 
Yes, we are prone to confess Christ when life is calm. But when the storms swirl, our confession can quickly blow away. Still, Jesus gave hope to the disciples and to us: “But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” The Lord assured the disciples that ultimate victory over each faith challenge is in him. This requires unshakeable faith, “Sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1)
   Living faith gives us eyes to see life beyond the challenges and into the Triune God, who so graciously bestowed life upon you. Pray your confession is true. Pray you believe and are steadfast in Jesus.