The Gospel of John: The work of the Spirit (John 16: 4b-15

The Gospel of John: The Work of the Spirit

John 16:4b-15

The Need to Leave (v. 4b-7)

•      Jesus’ comforting statements concerning persecution in 15:17-16:4b were not previously needed because of His presence with the disciples

•      But now Jesus is preparing them for His imminent departure

–     Over which they are grieved (v. 6)

•      His leaving will be to his disciples advantage

–     Because the Spirit will not come until after Jesus has left

–     See Isa. 11:1–10; 32:14–18; 42:1–4; 44:1–5; Ezk. 11:17–20; 36:24–27; 37:1–14; Joel 2:28–32

 

The Convicter (v. 8-11)

•      The Spirit comes to convict the world of:

–     Sin: which is based in unbelief in Jesus

–     Righteousness: Exposing the inadequacy of its own actions

–     Judgment: Showing God’s truth concerning all things

–     In contrast to the lies of the ‘prince of this world’ (Satan)

–     All of which Jesus did while on earth and the Spirit will continue in His absence

 

The Teacher (v. 12-15)

•      The Spirit will make clear to the disciples all that Jesus has taught

•      He is our ultimate teacher and revealer of Christ

 

So What?

•      With Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension the kingdom of God has come

•      The Holy Spirit empowers us to live out that kingdom life now

•      And continues the ministry of Jesus through us

•      Are we letting Him work through us?

 

Meditation Verse: John 16:7