Although the disciples grew up in a different time, they were swimming in a sea of propaganda and countless mixed messages just like we are today. There are a million different voices trying to tell us what the truth is, and the common message we end up hearing is “Whatever the truth is to you, that’s the ultimate truth.” How do we know which voice is right?

Imagine how confused the disciples must have been when they heard that Jesus was going away (John 13). They were probably asking, “Jesus, why are You leaving us alone in this painful and crazy world?” and “I thought we were supposed to follow You . . . but now You’re leaving us?” They must have felt abandoned. And Thomas said what a lot of us would have been thinking: “Lord, we have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?” (John 14:5).

Jesus knows our hearts can get incredibly confused. In this scene, He shows real care and guidance for His disciples. First, He reassures them: “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me” (John 14:1). Second, He gives them hope of His return: “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am” (John 14:3). Third, He gives them instructions based on His divine identity: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). God gives our confused, troubled minds the answer we’re looking for: Himself. His words are true, and He has not left us without the guidance of His Word and His promise to return for those who believe in Him.