The Holy Spirit - Pt. 5
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | September 3 2024 | John 16:12-15
KEY VERSE:
“When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth, for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears, He will speak, and He will declare unto you the things that are to come” John 16:13 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
In this passage, the Lord Jesus Christ speaks about the coming of the Holy Spirit and His relationship with the disciples. Verse 12 gives us insight into the dynamics of teaching and learning. A good teacher must understand how much their audience can absorb at any given time. It makes little sense to continue speaking when the listener’s attention fades. Some may boldly leave, while others may quietly pack their things. True wisdom in teaching is recognizing when to pause, and allowing time for reflection and absorption.
Jesus also emphasizes the reliability of the Holy Spirit, calling Him the Spirit of Truth. This title distinctly contrasts with Satan, who is described as the father of lies. The Spirit's role is to convey truth, while Satan’s purpose is to deceive. Consider the story in 2 Kings 22:19-23, where a single lying spirit misled hundreds of Baal priests, resulting in false hope for the King. Similarly, in Acts 5:3, Apostle Peter confronted Ananias, questioning why Satan had filled his heart to lie to the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit leads us into all truth, while Satan's influence brings deceit and destruction. One conveys truth, and the other, Satan, infiltrates hearts with lies, often with devastating consequences.
Moreover, the Holy Spirit operates under the authority of God the Father. As Titus 1:2 declares, the Triune God never lies. This underscores the absolute reliability of the Holy Spirit, who faithfully executes His divine assignment. (The next devotional will further explore the reliability of the Holy Spirit and His specific tasks.)
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
The stark contrast between Satan as the father of lies and the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth highlights the spiritual battle we face. While the differences are clear, navigating this battle can be challenging. PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, I thank you for the promised Holy Spirit and His immense ministry to the saved and unsaved. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: TRUTH The Greek word for "truth" in John 16:13 is "ἀλήθεια" (alētheia). This word carries a broad meaning that includes not just factual accuracy, but also faithfulness, reliability, and ultimate reality. It suggests a deep understanding of God’s nature and the realities of the spiritual world. In John 16:13, Jesus speaks of the Holy Spirit, whom He calls "the Spirit of truth." This phrase highlights the Holy Spirit's role in guiding believers into all truth. Here, "truth" encompasses a deep, spiritual understanding that aligns with God's reality and will. The Spirit's guidance is not limited to conveying factual information; it involves leading believers into a deeper knowledge of God, His purposes, and the meaning of Jesus' teachings. Reflections:
Living in a world of shifting values and falsehoods, the Holy Spirit guides believers to the unchanging truth found in Christ. How are you allowing the Spirit to guide you into all truth, and how does this truth shape your daily life and decisions?
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