Before I Go: John 13:36-14:7 ~ Rob Davis

Think of someone you care deeply about. For many of us, its a significant other, parent, child, or close friend. If you had to leave them knowing that it would be the last time you saw them, what would you say?

In his final moments with his disciples, Jesus gave what is often referred to as his, “Farewell Discourse” (John 13:31-17:26). In the stillness before his betrayal and soon-to-be death, Jesus gathered his disciples–his dear friends–one final time. Away from the crowds, Jesus did not preach at his disciples but he invited them into an intimate conversation – one that created space for their anxiety and questions. In his final words, Jesus promised to his disciples a new way of life made possible by his death.

We can empathize with the disciples in that room nearly 2,000 years ago. In seasons of our own lives where we experience the anxiety of the unknown and wonder if God really is faithful, we too can embrace Jesus’ new way of life made possible by his death. Though we do not see him face-to-face, he is still present. We need only to abide in him and trust his provision. Truly I tell you, Jesus is at work even in the unknown.

This week, we look at John 13:31-35. How does Jesus' command to love one another reflect his desire to give his followers abundant life?

As we continue to look out our new vision for LBC, we turn from discovering Jesus to deepening faith. What does it mean for us to have a deepening faith in Jesus? At LBC, we want everyone to experience the new life Jesus offers through a deepening faith that is rooted and established in Christ’s love, empowered by His Spirit, and characterized by surrendered living. In this next season for our church, we are intentionally choosing to prioritize individual growth over institutional growth by ensuring people are fruitful before being useful and by providing new opportunities to practice surrendered living.

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