John 16

Are you familiar with the meaning of Jesus’ teachings? While smugness may claim that you fully grasp everything, Jesus points out that we are likely to be in a similar state of confusion to the disciples in our scripture passage.

It’s OK, confusion is not necessarily an unfavourable position to be in. 

First and foremost, the disciples’ confusion demonstrates that they took Jesus seriously. A good thing to do is admit you don’t know it all, because it helps you stay open to learning.

I am a learner. I studied for my master’s degree in my late 50s and then began a PhD in my 60s. I also study the Bible under various Teachers of different Church traditions to glean an overview of interpretation.  

I know a secret; the more I learn about the Bible, the more I learn about myself. Take a look at 2 Timothy 3:16 ESV. 

‘All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness. ‘

 The Disciples weren’t indifferent or apathetic. On the contrary, they genuinely cared about and desired to understand His teaching. They must have possessed some level of faith in Jesus.

Otherwise, they would have disregarded him. But they didn’t. They actively listened, sought to understand, and engaged in discussions about his teachings. They hung around Jesus, asking Him questions and strove to understand the meanings behind His words. 

Confusion is a part of learning. Before we actually ‘get it,’ we need clarification as we struggle with meaning. Interestingly, Jesus doesn’t criticise their confusion.

Instead, he errs towards the positive by recognising their efforts and acknowledging their faith. Even though the disciples are perplexed, Jesus continues to communicate using figurative language; he does not give up on them. 

 Instead of straightforward and clear explanations, the message is mystical because what he imparts is profound. The mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven are deep, as the book of Revelation points out to us- Revelation 2:29Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. 

Reflection. 

How can you cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of the mysteries of life and faith? Also, what steps can I take to humbly admit my confusion and seek the gift of faith from our Lord? 

Then some of his disciples asked us what he was saying to us.  

‘A little while, and you will not see me. And again, in a little while, you will see me. And for I am going to the Father, and they said, what is this that he is saying a little while? We need to understand what he is saying. John 16:17 to 18. 

This passage seems confusing to the disciples, who did not realise that Jesus would die, rise, and ascend to heaven.  

Read with Your Faith 

Because Jesus’ teachings are so vastly profound and mystical, we cannot begin to comprehend them with our cerebral minds. To fully understand what is happening, we must first approach Jesus’ teachings through her faith.

Faith only implies a partial understanding of some things. Instead, it is a supernatural gift that allows one to believe without foresight and comprehension. Faith is simply trusting without needing explanation.  

Faith in God stems from God, not from one’s reasoning abilities. However, faith always leads to a deeper understanding, so as the disciples express their faith, they also come to understand. Ultimately, despite Jesus’ figurative language, the disciples believe anyway. 

John 16:30  New Living Translation 
Now we understand that you know everything, and there’s no need to question you. From this, we believe that you came from God.” 

The Remedy for Confusion 

If you find yourself confused about matters of faith, God, morality, or other mysteries of life, don’t be afraid to acknowledge your confusion. We all need clarification. It’s part of being human, particularly of learning.  

Admitting confusion is a humble recognition of the truth, and this humility serves as a crucial step toward receiving the gift of faith.  

Today, take a moment to reflect on whether you struggle with indifference toward Jesus teaching or something else.

Commit yourself to imitating the disciples who intentionally grappled with all that Jesus taught, no matter your struggles.

Don’t hesitate to confess your confusion, lay it before the Lord, and ask for His help. Strive to receive the gift of faith and let that flicker of faith become the pathway to a deeper understanding of life’s mysteries. 

In the comments section, I would love for you to share your stories and reflections on coping with confusion and faith with this community.

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