Warning: “Jesus’ “Farewell Discourse” must not be treated simplistically, as nothing more than Christian comfort designed to console defeated saints. Rather, it is first and foremost an exposition of the significance of Jesus’ “going away” to his Father via the cross. It is elemental theology; and only as such does it offer encouragement and consolation.”  (D.A. Carson)

1. Some truths Jesus’ followers must believe if our faith is to be triumphant, and our spirits tranquil.

• Jesus is going away to his Father’s spacious house (heaven) to prepare a place for his followers (2)
• Jesus is coming back for his followers so that we may be where he is (3)
• Jesus’ followers know the way to the place where he is going: via the cross (4)

Therefore, the 11 disciples must not let their hearts be troubled in Jesus’ absence, but rather trust in him.  Jesus’ departure (via the cross, resurrection and ascension) is for their advantage: it secures their future destiny.

2. Jesus himself is the WAY to God Father (5-6)

3. The revelation of the Father in the Son (7-14)3 

• Jesus states the fact: the Father is revealed in the Son (10)
• Jesus exhorts us to believe it (11)
• Jesus tells us the results of believing this truth (12-14)

1. Christians will do the works Jesus has been doing, and we will do even greater things than these.
2. Jesus will do whatever Christians ask in his name so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

* This sermon owes much to “The Farewell Discourse and Final Prayer of Jesus: An Exposition of John 14–17,” by D.A. Carson.