"Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper (Paraclete) will not come to you." John 16:7
Not unlike the disciples we would prefer a life of joy and happiness. But sorrow, grief, and hard times always seem just around the corner. Jesus has been preparing the disciples and us for the reality that life will be difficult, but He does not leave us alone... He gives us the paraclete!
Let me explain. For three chapters now Jesus is having a "farewell conversation" (if you will) with His disciples. He forewarns them He will be with them only for a "little while" and that persecution is coming as well. But He gives them a promise... the paraclete!
The paraclete is known by us as the Holy Spirit, who was to come to the disciples on Pentecost. He was given to dwell within in us in our Baptism. What an AWESOME GIFT! And yet we know so little about the paraclete. So today let me just layout some facts about the paraclete from John's Gospel (limited to chapters 14-16). May it enrich your faith because God Himself, the paraclete, dwells inside all believers. COME GET TO KNOW HIM!
What does paraclete mean?
Since no English word really is suitable for the depth of this Greek word, enjoy the list:
- defender, counsel of the defense, helper, comforter, assistant, lawyer, advocate, solicitor, counsellor, mediator, and one who exhortsand makes urgent appeals
What are the characteristics/activity does the paraclete make?
His Relationship with the pneuma (the Spirit): The paraclete is the pneuma (the Spirit). He is the Spirit of truth; he is the Holy Spirit. (16:13)
The Parclete is the actor/subject of the following actions:
- He dwells with the disciples: 14:17; he will be in them 14:17
- He teaches: 14:26
- He calls to mind: 14:26
- He proceeds from the Father: 15:26
- He bears witness: 15:26
- He convinces of sin 16:8
- He comes; 16:7ff; 16:13
- He listens (hears): 16:13
- He communicates (makes known): 16:13ff
- He speaks (reveals): 16:13
- He receives what is Jesus': 16:14ff
- He glorifies (Jesus): 16:14
- He guides into all truth: 16:13
The Paraclete is the object of the following actions:
- He is given: 14:16
- He is neither seen nor known by the world (not-yet believers): 14:17
- He is not received by the world (not-yet believers): 14:17
- He is sent: 14:26; 15:26; 16:7
Application:
- What comfort, What happens inside you, after you realize that God dwells within you?
- Spend some time in prayer, singing, or living in worship today.
Points taken from Congar's I believe in the Holy Spirit, page 55
0 comments:
Post a Comment