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John 14 – The Trouble with a Troubled Heart
A troubled heart is a dangerous heart. It leads to questioning answers already given, and doubting what is already known. There is nothing wrong with asking questions and experiencing doubt if they lead to a greater search for truth. But recognizing the danger keeps the search from becoming vain if it happens at all.
In John 14, Jesus twice tells his friends to not have a troubled heart (vv.1,27). In between is an exchange that shows the trouble caused by a trouble heart.
Jesus confidently affirms, “And you know the way where I am going” (v.4). Thomas doubts that truth – “Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?” (v.5)
Jesus chides Thomas, “If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him” (v.7). Philip denies that fact, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us” (v.7)
Jesus exasperatedly asks, “Have I been so long with you, and yet you have not come to know me, Philip?” (v.9)
What begins with a confident statement of faith in His disciples leads to revealing the danger their troubled heart is causing. The solution for a troubled heart is also revealed. Know that God cares. Believe that God has a plan. Obey His commands.
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