John 14, Part 3

Scripture: John 14:15-21

Observation: The primary message in these verses is love. To love Jesus is to obey His commands. Those who obey His commands will be loved by the Father (v.15, 21). We need love and faith to obey these commands, but Jesus knew we would need more; therefore He promised to send a Counselor, a Helper, an Advocate (greek parakletos - means "called alongside"). This Helper is sent by Jesus to His disciples and He is to abide in the disciples. The world can't know Him because He is a Spirit of Truth, and the world has rejected the Truth (14:6). The Counselor witnesses through believers and glorifies Christ through them (v.16, 17). The Counselor will abide with the disciples forever, while Jesus will leave for a short time. He promises union between Himself and the Father, and Himself and His disciples. While He is not seen with human eyes, yet His presence is felt by His disciples - He lives in them, and they see Him.

Application: As believers, we are never alone. We don't have Jesus physically present as the first disciples did, but we have an even closer relationship: Jesus is in us (v.20). What's more, the Holy Spirit abides in us also (v.17). We don't have to see Jesus standing in front of us to know He is with us every moment of our lives. This is reassuring, especially in today's world where Jesus is rejected more and more each day. It's unpopular to be a Christian, and to some it can seem like a lonely life. But far from loneliness, believers are filled with God's presence, and are secure in His love.

Prayer: Father, even in a world filled with people, it's easy to feel alone. People shy away from us because we don't go with the flow and accept what is commonly acceptable. It is comforting to know we are never alone, that You are with us at all times, and that You have sent Your Holy Spirit to help and comfort us. Thank You for Your provisions. Thank You for always being with me, no matter the hour or the day. I love You Father. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.