Chad Coley
The Gospel According To John
Jesus Strengthens the Persecuted
John 15:26 - 16:6
19 February 2023
Jesus spoke to His disciples in John 15 to prepare them for persecution ahead. He was to leave, but God would be with them through the Holy Spirit.
Jesus wanted His disciples to be encouraged. They were worried that Jesus' ministry would fade out because He was leaving. He promised them that the gospel would go forth, because God's purposes cannot be thwarted.
Jesus wanted them to be expectant. He foretold the persecution so that it would not catch them off guard. Christians are to expect the world will dislike or oppose us, because the world disliked and opposed Christ. God will bear us through the trials, and trusting Him means we do not need to be anxious.
Jesus wanted His disciples to be edified. It was to their advantage that Christ left so that the Spirit would come; and He is ever present with believers. They could have comfort in the same hope that we do today.