17th Question – Are You Inquiring Among Yourselves About What I Said?
“These things I have spoken to you, that you should not be made to stumble. Yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service” [John 16:1-2].
As Jesus approaches the end of His earthly ministry, He foretells what His disciples can expect after He is gone. Yes, they will suffer persecution, but He will send the Holy Spirit to comfort and guide them into all truth. He then shares that He will soon “go to the Father” [John 16:16].
As is usually the case when humans encounter God’s truth, a discussion broke out. The disciples questioned each other about what Jesus meant.
Then some of His disciples said among themselves, “What is this that He says to us, ‘A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me’; and, ‘because I go to the Father’?” They said therefore, “What is this that He says, ‘A little while’? We do not know what He is saying” [John 16:17-18].
Being Sovereign God, and knowing our hearts and minds, Jesus said to them, Are you inquiring among yourselves about what I said, ‘A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me?’” [John 16:19, bold text added].
After confronting them with His question, Jesus explained further what He meant. As He spoke, truth dawned on their hearts. The disciples exclaimed, “See, now You are speaking plainly, and using no figure of speech! Now we are sure that You know all things and have no need that anyone should question You” [John 16:29-30].
Response
Quite often, when faced with uncertainty, adversity, or confusion, we try to find answers among other humans. Obviously, seeking wise counsel is always a smart option [Proverbs 11:14]. But our primary and first source must always be the Word of God. The disciples remained confused as long as they disputed, questioned, and shared opinions among themselves. But once the Living Truth entered the discussion, He resolved the matter.
A wise adage is worth remembering in all situations. “When God’s Word speaks, discussion ends. When God’s Word is silent, discussion is unnecessary.”
Jesus’ question about the futility of “inquiring among yourselves” points us to Himself and His Word. May we always seek guidance from Him in prayer, from His Word in daily meditation and study, and through surrender to His Holy Spirit.
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This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Nate Stevens
Featured Image by Rudy and Peter Skitterians from Pixabay
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