Part 7, Overcoming the Disciples’ Challenges series
John 14:22-27
Like James the son of Alphaeus, there is little to know about Thaddaeus from the Bible. But that doesn’t mean we cannot learn enough. Today, we will also look at the name of Thaddaeus. Jews normally give nicknames to reveal which family they came from and to describe personality. Thaddaeus’ original name is Judas (not Iscariot). Thaddaeus is a nickname which means “breast-child”. A breast child refers to a nursing baby. Hence, Thaddaeus has a child-like personality. In the King James version of Matthew 10:3, he is also nicknamed Lebbaeus which translates to “heart-child.” So, that’s Judas’ personality – tender-hearted. Several more things we can learn from a tender-hearted person like Thaddaeus who has been with the Lord. And we start with him as…
1. Easily moved to love.
“22 Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?” John 14:22.
· A child-like inquiry.
· Thaddaeus was curious why Jesus treated the disciples differently from the rest of the world.
· Would like the world to see Jesus as Thaddaeus had.
“23Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” John 14:23.
· Considering his tender-hearted personality, Thaddaeus perhaps felt very happy hearing these affirming words from Jesus.
· Affirming words can move the tender-hearted to respond to love.
The tender-hearted who’s been with the Lord was…
2. Easily moved to obey.
“23Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching.” John 14:23.
· Love is essential in this familial relationship as much as obedience is a necessity in divine-human relationship.
Why do we disobey God?
· Our human sinful nature wants to resist that idea of relying on God.
· We don’t trust God enough to do our biddings.
The tender-hearted who’s been the Lord was…
3. Easily moved by the Spirit.
“25 All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. 28 “You heard me say, ‘I am going away, and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I.” John 14:25-28.
· He is our advocate, parakleton in Greek, which means “helper, counselor and intercessor”. v.26
· He gives you peace. v.27a.
· He strengthens your faith. v.27b.
· He reminds you of your hope in Jesus. v.28a.
· He gives you gladness. v. .28b.
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