Jesus is Essential
John 15:26–27: “But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me. And you also will bear witness, because you have been with Me from the beginning.
In the face of the opposition and hatred of the world a believer might be tempted to try to escape from the world or to be silent in it. Jesus encouraged His disciples by the promise of the Spirit’s work in the world. As the work of Jesus was to promote the Father and not Himself, so the Spirit will witness to Jesus as the Messiah (He will testify about Me). And what He says is true for He is the Spirit of Truth. As the Counselor, He presents God’s truth to the world.
The Spirit is sent from the Father, just as the Son was sent from the Father. Yet this mysterious work of the Spirit is not done in isolation from the church. The apostles were to bear witness to the facts that they came to know: You also must testify. As the apostles witnessed, the Holy Spirit persuaded, and people were saved. The same combination of human obedience to the divine command coupled with the witness of the Spirit is needed in every generation. 1
Walking with Jesus
We need all the help that He can provide. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth of His Word to you before you read His Word. Ask for His comfort upon your mind and emotions before you are overwhelmed with worry and anxiety.
But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8
His power is for His purposes, in bearing witness to His promised salvation.
Praying
Lord, please open my eyes and heart towards those You have prepared to receive the gospel of saving grace. Make me a faithful witness for You.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary.
