An Essential Separation (John 13:31-14:14)

Introduction
If you've ever sent a child away for an extended period of time, perhaps to school, you may have experience a certain sense of anxiety. Not that you didn't want her to learn, to become more independent, to grow up. But now that she's out on her own, she no longer has you there to help guide her. Along with the physical separation comes a certain sense of helplessness on your part. And with that, a concern that the things you've taught for the last 18 years might not be remembered.

In this section of our study, Jesus is explaining his departure and separation from his disciples. He is preparing them for what must occur and in so doing, explaining the significance and necessity for their benefit.

Within 24 hours Jesus would be dead. But this death was not the end, it was actually the beginning. The beginning of the necessary work Jesus came to complete on humanity's behalf. In fact, his death completes the payment for sin, thus satisfying God's justice and man's infinite debt. And following his resurrection, he will go back to the Father in preparation for his parousia (second coming). All of this is necessary and desirable for us.

Resulting In Glory (John 13:31-35)
Love reflects Christ to the world.
How is your reflection?
How selective is your love? How wide does your circle of love go?

No Time For Heroics (John 13:36-38)
Self-confidence is a breeding ground for failure.
What are you trying to do for God without consideration for God's will?
How have you failed God? Maybe it's a recurring failure. Will you repent, be restored, and find out the task Jesus has for you?

Making Arrangements (John 14:1-7)
The Father is unknowable apart from Jesus.
What present troubling circumstances are you encountering?
God is aware of everything you are going through.
How well are you doing at trusting God in your current circumstances? If not too well, will you tell him? Will you ask him for greater faith?
What way are you going?

Expanding the Kingdom (John 14:8-14)
God's work done by Jesus through believers results in God's glory.
What are you asking God for that He's already given you?
What are you asking for out of an incorrect motive?
What do you need to be asking for?