The Boy and the Dictionary: Growth Through Christ's Absence
Our Lord consolidates His parting promises to the disciples in three crystalline marks of Christian life: the cessation of ignorant questions, the satisfaction of desires,...
This is historical examples on spiritual maturity through loss and growth in absence, drawing on John 16:23-24.
Our Lord consolidates His parting promises to the disciples in three crystalline marks of Christian life: the cessation of ignorant questions, the satisfaction of desires, and the perfecting of joy. Yet the most penetrating insight concerns what seems like deprivation—that He shall depart. The disciples heard "Ye shall ask Me nothing" with despair. How could they survive without their infallible Teacher at their side?…
Sign up free to read the full illustration
Join fellow pastors who prep smarter — free account, no credit card.
Sign Up FreeTopics & Themes
Scripture References
Powered by ChurchWiseAI
IllustrateTheWord is part of the ChurchWiseAI family — AI tools built for pastors, churches, and ministry leaders.
PewSearch
Find Your Church Home
The most complete church directory in the US and Canada. 218,000+ churches searchable by location, denomination, and tradition.
Search ChurchesChurchWiseAI
Voice Agent & Church Chatbot
24/7 AI phone receptionist and website chatbot for churches — answers calls, handles questions, and follows up with visitors automatically.