Holy Spirit #1

May 15, 2021 (Saturday)

 

Jesus leaving the earth seemed like a sad event. In some ways it was, but Jesus had another take on the subject.

 

Jesus noted their emotional state: “But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart.” [John 16:6 ESV] In fact, the impact was paralyzing (see verse 5). It seems to be a principle that when God does something unexpected, it’s always better than what we want.

 

Jesus goes on to explain, “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.” [John 16:7 ESV] Many times Jesus used the expression “I tell you the truth” (or something like it). Generally when someone says that to me, I assume they follow that with a lie. At least that has been my experience.

 

I think Jesus uses the expression to make a point. Kind of like saying, “listen up, this is important.” So what is important about this? It is to our advantage that the Holy Spirit is here. How so? I am so glad you asked.

 

One difference between Jesus and the Holy Spirit is, technically Jesus was only in one place at one time. This was in keeping with His humanity. The Holy Spirit, on the other hand, technically can be everywhere at once.

 

Another difference, Jesus had the ability to command. By implication this also lead to a certain empowerment to fulfill the command. What we learn, studying the Holy Spirit, is that He (the Holy Spirit) is the power behind amazing abilities and things.

 

Jesus is going to give us more reasons the Holy Spirit is an advantage to us. The Holy Spirit is necessary for godly conviction, “And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” [John 16:8 ESV] There is a “conviction” (sorrow) that is healthy because it creates positive change.

 

The reason the Holy Spirit deals with sin is because, “concerning sin, because they do not believe in me” [John 16:10 ESV] Throughout scripture belief and sin stand opposed to each other. The cure for sin as a disease and relief from the consequences of sin only comes through Jesus. There is no other way.

 

Then Jesus tackles righteousness, “concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer.” [John 16:10 ESV] Does this make any sense to you? In the English language, we have a saying: “when the cat’s away, the mice will play.” Without the direct influence of Jesus, the Holy Spirit is the one who will keep us on track.

 

Finally, “concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.” [John 16:11 ESV] This seems odd. What does Satan being judged have to do with us? Well not everything is about us. However, if it were then the question becomes where our loyalties rest.

 

Or as the old question runs: “Who’s your daddy?” Are you in alignment with the Heavenly Father or the “father of lies?” The Holy Spirit is also titled “Spirit of truth.” Pick one, just one.