"DO NOT LET YOUR HEARTS BE TROUBLED. YOU BELIEVE IN GOD, BELIEVE ALSO IN ME." John 14:1

National Election
The scripture verse listed as our title for this blog is certainly timely for us at this time in our nation.
My heart does ache as I see our nation go through a very uncertain and troubling time as we anticipate a very important election of a new president on November 8. I am asking that you join me in praying that people of faith will go to the polls and vote. Yes, I agree that the decision of which candidate is the right choice is very difficult when one measures each candidates' character by our Biblical principles. May I suggest that you examine not only their character but the stated policies that they will endorse if elected. Another point to consider is the quality and belief system of each Vice President. If either Mr. Trump or Secretary Clinton were unable to fulfill their duties as President because of health issues or other issues which Vice President is the right choice.
Again, join me in praying for our nation and go to the polls and vote.

Our Bible Study for Sunday, October 23, 2016, is John 14:1-31. 

 Topics and sections:

Verse 1: General Scope of the chapter
Verses 2-4: Describes our Heavenly Dwelling Place
Verses 5-7: Thomas' Question and Jesus' Response
Verses 9-12; Philip's Question and Jesus'Response
Verses 13-15:Conditions of Prayer
Verses 16-17: Coming of our Helper
Verses 18- 21: God the Father's Love
Verses 22-25: Judas' (Thaddeus) Question and Jesus' Response
Verses 26-31: Our Advocate

Please take the time this week to read through this chapter four or five times. As Jesus interacts with his apostles, he assures them of God' love, His love, and that once he is no longer on planet earth, they will have a helper and advocate, the Holy Spirit. He communicates that after his death that they will see Him before his ascension and after his ascension he will return at some time in the future.
This is a very difficult time for his disciples. Jesus is speaking to them to prepare them for his death and departure.

Three disciples, Thomas, Philip and Judas(Thaddeus), asked three important questions.
What are these questions? What is Jesus' response?

Thomas' question:"Lord, we do not know where you are going. How do we know the way?"
Thomas' question provoked one of the greatest things that Jesus ever said.
John 14:6: "I am the way, and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."   

I am the Way: The Jews talked much about the way in which men must walk and the ways of God.  Read these scriptures: Deuteronomy 5:32,33; 31:29; Isaiah 30:21;  35:8; Psalm 27:11

I am the Truth: Read these scriptures: Psalm 86;11; 26:3; 119:30.

I am the Life: Read these scriptures: Proverbs 6:23; 10:17; 16:11

What is the meaning of the following words:
Heart: "Kardia" see Shepherd's Notes page 67:
Read these scriptures: Ephesians 3:18; John 12:40; Romans 1:21; 2 Peter 1:19

Another counselor:" Paraclete" See Shepherd's Notes page 70

Answer the questions to guide your study: Shepherd's Notes page 70

See you Sunday.