Messengers of the GospelSample

The Advocate

As Jesus was wrapping up his time on earth, He shared some surprising truths with His disciples. In John 16:7, Jesus said, “It is best for you that I go away...” (NLT). We often read over short statements like this without much thought, but pause a moment and put yourself in their shoes.

Imagine Jesus saying these words to you.

“(Insert your name here), it is best for you that I go away...”

How would you feel?

The disciples probably thought, “How on earth can it be best for you to go away? You are Jesus!” During Jesus' time on earth, they had experienced His love, power, direction, and care whenever He was around them. When Jesus physically left their space, though, they did not experience Him again until He returned. In their own experience, life was certainly better when Jesus was with them and more difficult when He was gone.

How could it possibly be better for Jesus to go away?

The larger context makes His reasoning clear. “But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you” (John 16:7 NIV).

The Advocate that Jesus spoke of is the Holy Spirit. The Greek word translated here as “advocate” can also be translated as “comforter” or “helper.” The Greek word refers to “a legal advocate who makes the right judgment call because he or she is close enough to the situation.”

This might bring up thoughts of a good TV show featuring a fantastic lawyer. A great lawyer knows their client’s story inside and out. They also know the legal system. A great lawyer always has their client’s best interest in mind and will fight for them until the end.

Most of us would love to have a great lawyer like that on our side during difficult times, and the image provides a helpful picture, but the Holy Spirit is far better than any lawyer.

Jesus was preparing His disciples to experience God's presence in a whole new way. All that Jesus did for His disciples when He was personally with them would now be always available to them in the person of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit would be close enough to advise, comfort, help, and advocate on their behalf. The disciples no longer had to be physically near Jesus to experience His presence. The Holy Spirit would live inside each of them!

This is why it is best!

As a disciple of Jesus, you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you. He is with you right now!

The truth of the matter is that the Holy Spirit is your advocate. He knows your story fully and desires to bring comfort, help, encouragement, and support into your life every day. He is for you, not against you. The Holy Spirit will stand by your side in every struggle.

Reflection:

Do you talk with the Holy Spirit about the things that come up during your day?

Is there any situation in which you need the Holy Spirit to be your advocate today?