May 16, 2018
John 16:16-24 Contemporary English Version (CEV)
In our passage today, the Apostle John writes about the time just before Jesus is arrested. Jesus tells the disciples he is going away and lets them know he is aware they will be sad when he leaves. Then, Jesus teaches the disciples about the Holy Spirit. He tells them the Spirit will convict the world of sin, call people to repentance, and guide them toward righteousness. It will be a new relationship between the believer and God. The Holy Spirit will be a Helper who guides believers into the Truth of the Savior: the Living Word or utterance of God. Upon receiving the Spirit, the disciples will be filled with great happiness and joy.
It is the work of the Spirit to exalt Christ and teach believers the ways of God; to help us through Grace apply the principles of love to our lives. Our part is to pray and ask for the Spirit to indwell our lives and be our Helper. In this new relationship, God will be pleased and believers will be happy and whole.