By the time we’re reading the fourteenth chapter of John, the disciples had been with Jesus for three years. They were just days before his arrest and crucifixion. While the tension was thick, Jesus was still trying to leave them with as much comfort and direction as he could.
They were still having trouble getting it, though. Boy, does this show me how much we need the Holy Spirit!
Jesus had just clearly stated that he was the way, the truth and the life. Only through him could anyone hope to reach the Father. He shared with them:
If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.
John 14:7 (NIV)
Peter and Thomas had shown their ignorance, and now it was Philip’s turn:
Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”
John 14:8
Wow, is this how we are without the Holy Spirit? Here he was, standing in front of God Incarnate, and he couldn’t see that by looking at Jesus, he was looking at God.
Yet, how many times have we, post-Pentecost, asked God to show himself or reveal his will?
When will what we have ever be enough?
Does God not show himself in the universe? In creation?
Has he not revealed himself in his Word, in Christ?
Does he not show us glimpses of himself in the faces of those who follow Christ?
Do the works of the Holy Spirit in our life and churches not give us enough of God?
When is enough enough?
Maybe we can say Philip had an excuse, but we do not. God clearly reveals himself in his Word, through Christ, and by the conviction of the Holy Spirit on every heart who seeks him.
That is enough. It was for me, and I pray it is for you.
If it is — believe. That will be enough for God.
Grace and Peace
Missed the previous post in this series? Click HERE.