Jesus warned His disciples that they would experience grief and trouble in this world. But He promised them that their grief would turn to joy and that they could live victoriously because Jesus has overcome the world.
The disciples were grieved at the thought of Jesus’ leaving them. Jesus told them it was better that He go away. That way He could sent the Holy Spirit to live with them and all believers.
On earth, Jesus was limited to being in one place at one time. But the Holy Spirit is omnipresent – he can be everywhere at one time.
Jesus explained who the Holy Spirit is and what He does.
- He leads and guides believers to the truth of God.
- He lives inside of all believers.
- He teaches and reminds us about the truth of Scripture.
- He proves the world wrong about sin, righteousness, and judgment.
- He convicts believers’ hearts when we sin against God.
- He glorifies Jesus.
- He gives gifts to each believer.
Jesus reminded the disciples that He was leaving them, but they would see Him again in a little while. The disciples questioned what this meant. Jesus did not ignore or rebuke their grief and sorrow. Instead He acknowledged their sorrow and put everything into a big picture perspective.
He warned them that what was to come (His arrest and death) would be a trying time for them. But He promised to see them again, both after His resurrection and eternally in heaven. Jesus told the disciples they would weep and mourn as the world rejoices at Jesus’ death. But their sorrow would turn to joy when Jesus arises from the dead.
Jesus reminded the disciples that they can pray directly to God the Father. He said that they will receive anything they ask in Jesus’ name. This means praying and asking for things in God’s will, according to God’s Word, and for God’s glory. The Holy Spirit enables us to pray in this way.
The disciples confessed their belief in Him. Then Jesus told them they will be scattered. Jesus promised that we will have trouble in this world, but He also promised that we can have peace in Jesus through the Holy Spirit.
Things to Think About
- We are living in a world filled with troubled times. But God is always faithful to us.
- We live our lives to the glory of God by relying on the Holy Spirit’s help.
- Are you allowing the Holy Spirit to lead you, to help you, to guide you into God’s truth?
- Jesus provides everything believers need to live a victorious life in this troubled world.