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Jesus is the greatest peace

Devotional

“Do you believe?” We have been asked, we ask others and we ask ourselves the question of belief. The odd placement of the question in this passage, John 16:31, is that it comes after the disciples claim clear belief. The disciples even claim that Jesus knows everything (v. 30). The disciples are correct. Jesus knows all.

This is a mountain top moment for the disciples. Things are clicking and confidence is building. The disciples can feel the resolve building in their souls, and Jesus knows they will crumble yet. So, Jesus confirms, “Do you believe?” (v. 31) Is Jesus questioning their sincerity? Not exactly.

Imagine a divine vantage point in this passage. When Jesus asks, “Do you believe?” He has the perspective of eternity past and future. He knows the disciples are sincere. He also knows they are days from faith failure. Jesus accepts the disciple’s affirmation of belief while understanding they will scatter and desert Him.

It is in this question, “Do you believe?” that we find the overwhelming grace of Jesus. The question of belief is a reality check. For the disciples the question follows a claim of mastery. It’s as if they are saying, “We got this! We don’t even have any more questions!” Jesus does not rebuke them. He promises them trouble and peace. The disciples must have belief to persevere through troubles in peace.

Jesus’ question of belief gives us a snapshot of the gospel message. Jesus meets us where we are, tell us the truth about us, and loves us anyway. Jesus looks past our current collapse to the reality of our redemption. He knows we can persevere because He already has. Jesus can assure our resolve, the spread of the gospel and the building of the church because He is the cause and foundation of belief. Jesus gives peace to all that follow Him in this world because He has already overcome this world.

Pray

Thank you Jesus for knowing all and making Yourself known to me. Please give me Your peace that overcomes anything in this world. I pray that others will know Your peace and believe in You.