INNER PEACE The problem of doubt

John’s Doubts (Luke 7:18-23) “And I did not recognize Him, but He who sent me to baptize in water said to me, ‘He upon whom you see the Spirit descending and remaining upon Him, this is the one who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.’ “And I have seen, and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.” (John 1:33-34)

But when Herod the tetrarch was reproved by him on account of Herodias, his brother’s wife, and on account of all the wicked things which Herod had done, he added this also to them all, that he locked John up in prison. (Luke 3:19-20)

Lessons learned from John All people can have doubts! Doubt can be accentuated by physical circumstances. God may sometimes act in ways that we may not think he “ought” to.

Jesus’ response to John Jesus gave John evidence for His faith! "Tell John what you see and hear.” (v. 21-22)

Lessons learned from Jesus When doubts arise, we do not need to look for some new or stupendous confirmation of faith. When doubts arise, we do need to revisit the evidence God as given us.

Many other signs therefore Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name. (John 20:30-31)

If doubt arises, we must have enough love for the truth to put forth the effort to find the answers. Don’t be lured into a false peace.

Jesus’ response to John Jesus gave John evidence for His faith! "Tell John what you see and hear.” Jesus gave John encouragement to keep believing! "Blessed is he who keeps from stumbling over me".

Lessons learned from Jesus When doubts arise, we do not need to look for some new or stupendous confirmation of faith. When doubts arise, we do need to revisit the evidence God as given us. We need to be careful about second-guessing God. Focus on the rewards of faith.

“Everyone therefore who shall confess Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 10:32) Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die. (John 11:25-26)