The tension has never been higher. Christ was facing his death, he had just announced that someone among his disciples will betray him. The disciples were halfway expecting that Roman soldiers will be kicking in the door of the upper room. Peter blurted out that he will never betray Jesus. Then, he has the shock of his life, Jesus told him:
Jesus answers, “Will you lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly, I say to you, a rooster will not crow until you deny Me three times. John 13:38
Everyone but Jesus was in turmoil. Everyone but Jesus was afraid. Everyone except Jesus was on the brink of hysteria. Incredibly Jesus then said the following
Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also (John 14:1-3).
In effect, Jesus said in this upper room you might be flooded with fear, your hearts may be melted by cowardice, your courage may be crushed, but don't be troubled. Another room, a dwelling place, will be prepared for you and it will be a place of peace, not of terror. When Jesus spoke of the heavenly home, he presented it as an answer to the terrors and fear of this world.
