What Jesus Did! 'Disciples Scattered, Jesus Alone' — John 16:31-32

Saturday, October 20, 2018

Jesus asked [his disciples], "Do you finally believe? 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."
— John 16:31-32 NLT
Illustration of John 16:31-32 NLT — "Do you finally believe?"

Key Thought

The disciples think they believe. They think they are courageous and loyal. Yet they will all scatter and leave Jesus alone. He will face the horrors of the cross by himself. Yes, the Father will go with him. But on the cross, Jesus will even feel abandoned by the Father as he bears the weight of the world's sin alone, forsaken, mocked, ridiculed and tortured. And why did he do it? He did it to save you. He did it to save me. He did it to save the lost world. So how can we keep from sharing such costly grace with those who do not know it?

Today's Prayer

Give us, your people, your church, courage to proclaim your grace in ways that communicate it clearly. The unspeakable horrors of Jesus' betrayal night and crucifixion day humble us, dear Father, that you and he would love us so. Lead us to redemptively love others who do not know this grace as their own. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • John 3:16-17
  • 1 John 2:1-2
  • Luke 24:35-36, 44-48

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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