Teresa and I recently had to buy a new washing machine. We had not purchased one in several years and to our surprise the new machines did not have an agitator. The agitator is the mechanism in the tub of the machine that churns back and forth and pulls the clothes in a downward rotation throughout the process. This action helps to clean the clothes but appears to be pretty tough on the fabric.
The new machine has no agitator and according to the salesman would be much easier on the clothes. I was very skeptical that the new machine would clean the clothes. Much to my surprise the new machine does a very good job.
The agitator churns and stirs up the clothes in a fairly violent way. The word agitator is sometimes used of people that are troublemakers. We probably all know people whom we would classify as agitators.
When I think of the word agitator, the Greek word tarasso comes to mind. The word is sometimes translated troubled in the New Testament. In John 14:1, Jesus said, “Let not your hearts be troubled…” Other passages such as John 12:27 and John 13:21 are examples of tarasso being translated as troubled.
Consider the passage in John 14:1-6. The LORD had just shared very disturbing news that He was about to go away. The apostles were understandably troubled in spirit. Their emotions were running high and one could imagine their thoughts being stirred up or agitated. Thus the word tarasso is used.
The LORD calmed them by sharing these powerful words of comfort found in verses 1 – 6.
- “You believe in GOD, believe also in Me.” Jesus first encouraged them to rely on their faith.
- He then began to tell them why He was going away. He promised them many mansions that would be prepared. Some versions say rooms. I am reminded of the Amish houses with many rooms. As the family grows there are simply more rooms added on. There is room for all.
- He said, “I go to prepare a place for you.” Imagine a place prepared just for me. Hebrews 11:16 further promises a place prepared for the faithful child of GOD.
- His response of “I would have told you” implies that they could depend on what He said. Luke 1:45 confirms there will be a fulfillment of the things said by the LORD.
- I will come again is the promise for which all faithful Christians live.
- Where I am, there you may be also. Our ultimate goal when this life is over is to be with Him.
Jesus then concludes with a powerful truth in verse 6. Jesus says “I am the way.” It is interesting that Luke refers to Christianity as “the way” 6 times in the book of Acts.
As life brings trouble and strife, we all find ourselves emotionally agitated from time to time. But we serve a GOD of comfort if we will but rely on His promises. John 14 is a wonderful study.