John 14:1-14 The disciples had given their whole lives to following Jesus, much like we are expected to do. When he rocked their world in John 13, he then provided them (and us) encouragement in chapters 14-17. He tells us that the best remedy is trusting Him.

John 14: 15-31 When Jesus told us not to be troubled, he also promised to send the Holy Spirit. He is the least understood part of the Holy Trinity. Today we take a look at this part of God's being and the work for which he is responsible.

John 15 The vine was a symbol of Judaism, and here in our passage as Jesus continues to give encouragement to his followers he declares that he is the vine and that we are the branches. This illustration proves very useful in giving us direction when we are struggling in this life, as he tells us that the hard times are the way that we are "trimmed," giving us a better tomorrow as long as we remain in Christ.

John 15:18-27 In the midst of giving the disciples encouragement for the future, he switches gears and gives them a warning that is especially important for us in today's climate. As his followers, we should expect to be hated. But in true Jesus fashion he also tells us how to handle it appropriately.

John 17 In this chapter we get to see inside the mind of Jesus. We see his thoughts and motivations as he prays his farewell prayer regarding the disciples and the ministry that continues to today of spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth. Jesus reveals his desires for us individually and as a church to live and work together for our one true goal.