John 15:26-27

Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.

In our last passage we heard Jesus warn his closest followers that their connection and commitment to him would result in rejection by “the world.” We also remembered Jesus’ all-encompassing commandment to love as he loved. Read John 15:26-27 with all of this in mind.

The Greek word for “Advocate” in this passage is “paraklétos” - the One who is close enough to comfort, guide, help and defend. The Advocate Jesus promises to his followers is his own Holy Spirit. If Jesus’ followers remain in Jesus, he will remain in them - closer than their very breath - through his Spirit. They will not be alone in Jesus’ physical absence, nor will they live out his mission in their own strength.

Get still for moment and focus on the presence of the Holy Spirit with you. You might want to pray the prayer that followers of Jesus have prayed for centuries: “Come, Holy Spirit.” Then be still and wait.

Read John 15:26-27 again as if Jesus were speaking the words directly to you.

The Holy Spirit testifies about Jesus not only to his first followers, but to everyone throughout time who commits their life to following Jesus. When you read Scripture and your mind and heart are enlightened so you begin to know Jesus better, it is his Spirit who testifies to you. This gift is not just for you so that you can be comforted, guided and sustained. The gift of the Spirit is for the good of others as well.

As the Spirit testifies about Jesus to you, you have the privilege of testifying about Jesus to those around you. You testify about Jesus when you love as he loved and seek to pass on the hope and healing you have received from him. And you don’t do this alone. Jesus’ Spirit flows through you as you seek to live on his mission and spread shalom in the world – setting things right, the way God intended them to be one small step at a time.

Get quiet again and become aware of the Holy Spirit of Jesus living in you.

What do you sense the Holy Spirit saying to you or inviting you to do?

What will you do about that?

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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.