Takeaways

In this passage from the upper room discourse, Jesus tells His followers about the Spirit and about Himself:

The Spirit …

1. He was “another” helper (16) – another of the same kind as Jesus.

2. He would be a “helper” (16) – similar to how Jesus has interacted with the disciples.

3. He was the “Spirit of truth” (17) – anchored in and revealer of truth.

4. He would be “sent by the Father” (16, 26) – not ministering on His own accord but in keeping with the Father’s plan.

5. He would be sent “In Jesus’ name” (26) – in the authority of and connected with the life and ministry of Jesus.

6. He would “teach” (26) – He has an active role in the lives of Jesus’ followers, helping them understand.

7. He would bring Jesus’ word “to remembrance” (26) – He helps Jesus’ followers recall and embrace what they’ve learned from Jesus.

8. He was already known by Jesus’ followers (17) – their life with Jesus would be enriched and deepened by the Spirit.

Himself …

1. He will ask on behalf of His followers (16) – Jesus’ ministry to His followers will not end, He will be praying for them.

2. He will not leave them (18, 28) “Going” doesn’t mean leaving or abandonment but more about attending to another related task.

3. Because He lives, so will they (19) – they will come to understand huge implications in their own lives.

4. They will know He is in them (20) – the relationship will change but not end.

5. He will disclose Himself to them (21, 23) – The Father, Son and Spirit will set up their home in them.

6. He gives them peace (27) – peace can be bestowed and Jesus is gifting them a settledness of heart.

7. He tells them all of these things to encourage their believing (29) – their trust will help things become more and more clear.

All these things are true for followers of Jesus TODAY! Don’t settle for a lesser experience. There’s nothing for us to do but lean into this kind of life!

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Reflection Prompters / Exercises

1. Read through what Jesus reveals about the Spirit. What are you coming to see about your relationship with the Spirit?

2. Read through what Jesus reveals about Himself. What are you coming to see about your relationship with Jesus?

3. Jesus and the Spirit carry out the Father’s plan. What are you coming to see about your relationship with the Father?

4. How can you lean further into the reality of the Father, Son, and Spirit in your life?

5. What would a personal application of this message look like for you?