March 30, 2025
Leaving Us for Good
Jesus left us – not to abandon us, but to empower us through the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is called to our side, always present, always active.
Context:
It’s the final 24 hours of Jesus’ life.
Jesus has washed their feet (John 13:1–20), shared the Last Supper (Luke 22:14-20), and predicted betrayal (John 13:21–30).
The disciples are confused as Jesus repeatedly tells them He is going away (John 14:1-6).
John 16:4b–15
“But now I am going to him who sent me … sorrow has filled your heart. Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away … when the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth… He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.” (John 16:5-7, 13-14)
What Jesus says vs. what we feel:
Our instinct:
• If you loved me, you’d never leave me.
• You’re choosing yourself over me.
• I’m lost now.
Jesus’ response:
• I’m choosing you, in obedience to the Father.
• I will send the Helper.
• It’s better for you that I go. (John 16:7)
Who is the Helper?
Greek: Paraclete – one who is “called to your side”
• by your side
• interpreting what’s true and teaching you, helping you understand
• helping you walk wisely in your context
What the Holy Spirit does
Bears witness to Jesus (John 15:26)
Proceeds from the Father, sent by the Son (John 14:26; 15:26)
Convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8-11)
Guides us into all truth (John 16:13)
Speaks what He hears from God (John 16:13)
Glorifies Jesus (John 16:14)
Takes what is Jesus’ and declares it to us (John 16:14)
Produces fruit in us (Galatians 5:22-23)
And He does this constantly – for every believer. That’s why it’s better than Jesus walking on earth.
Other worldviews say …
Work hard to reach God.
You are the universe/God.
You are nobody; there is no God.
Jesus says …
God will dwell with you.
The Spirit of God lives in you and forms a new self alive in Christ (Romans 8:11; 2 Corinthians 5:17).
“You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy.” –John 16:20
“Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” –John 16:24
Why do we pray “in Jesus’ name”?
Jesus is the door (John 10:9)
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6)
We have direct access to the Father through Him
Final words before the Cross:
“In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” –John 16:33
Jesus is not surprised by your pain. He sees it and speaks directly to it: “Take heart.”
Where in your life are you letting tribulation win?
Are you asking boldly in Jesus’ name?
Are you listening for the voice of the Helper?
Take heart. He has overcome the world.
You are not alone; the Spirit is at your side.
