Read: John 16
Watch: https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/holy-spirit/#fn-7
Jesus was going back to His Father. He had already told His followers of His coming betrayal, death, burial, and resurrection. He even told them, “it is better for you if I go, so that I may send the Holy Spirit.” Jesus promised them they would not be alone. They would have the Holy Spirit living among, with, and in them— the advocate, helper, comforter, encourager, counselor, challenger, the very breath of God!
Jesus was realistic with the disciples stating they would be ostracized by religion and even killed for following Him. He told them these things so they would have peace in the midst of the coming storm, trials, and sorrows. The reason to take heart? Jesus said, “I have overcome the world.”
The work of Jesus was complete when He voluntarily laid down His life for His sheep. He became the sacrificial Lamb of God, who takes away our sins. His death conquered sin; His resurrection conquered death. By His stripes we are healed! As if this were not enough, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit, the Breath of God to be our Advocate, who will never leave us and lead us into all truth. The Triune God not only invites us into His community of perfect love, but gives His Spirit to dwell with us, leading us into all truth, teaching us, and revealing God to us.
The Holy Spirit gives us life and makes us new. He dwells within us, gifting us and producing His fruit in our life. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, yet empowers us with wisdom, interceding for us, sealing us in Christ’s salvation. Why take heart? Jesus has overcome the world! Tears may last the night, but joy comes in the morning— the birth of a new day, the birth of a new life, the renewal of all things. Even so, come.
Pray: Holy Spirit, breathe on me!
Discussion Questions:
- How does the Holy Spirit act as an advocate, helper, comforter, and counselor in your life?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus has “overcome the world”?
- Jesus warned His followers about persecution. How can we prepare our hearts to remain faithful in times of difficulty?
- How can we rely more on the Holy Spirit for wisdom and guidance in our daily lives?
- What hope does the promise of Jesus’ victory over the world bring to you today?
- In what ways does the Holy Spirit challenge and transform us to become more like Christ?