“The Presence of the Holy Spirit” - John 16:1-7
Sermon series: Unstoppable Work of the Holy Spirit
Sermon Title: The Presence of the Holy Spirit
Scripture: John 16:1-7
Introduction:
There are not many things greater than the longing for presence. Presents can only satisfy to a certain extent, but without presence – something remains deeply missing. All the gifts and presents in the world cannot replace the presence that we are to be with one another.
Christianity is the story of presence. It's the story of God's faithful and unending presence with his people.
Scot McKnight - "The bible is really about the with-ness of God - that God throughout the bible from genesis to revelation has wanted to be with His people."
And yet in this passage in John 16, we see Jesus saying something very puzzling.
Overview:
We read about Jesus informing his disciples he will be physically leaving them (vv7)
For the past 3 years, the disciples have been doing everything together with Jesus.
Jesus is telling his disciples unless he leaves, something better will not come in his stead.
God’s promise of His presence extends throughout the entire Bible
From the beginning, God desired to be with His people
God relentlessly pursues His people
Now, John 16:7 makes sense – for Jesus says unless he leaves, His absence cannot pave the way for another dimension of His presence
Jesus has his disciples let go of familiarity (him) so something new can come (the Holy Spirit)
This is why how you treat your body (diet, habits, rest) is so important – for your body is the TEMPLE of the Holy Spirit!
How is it possible that God is living within us?
We have been cleansed, forgiven, and freed
God is good, Christ is good, and He is working within us
How does that affect my life today?
Because the Spirit lives inside of us, we are never alone
Because the Spirit is in us, we can become like Christ
Because the Holy Spirit lives inside of us, we have power
How do we access this power?
Expectation for encounter
Position yourself so that the Holy Spirit may surprise you in grand and unanticipated ways. Step into this invitation and be led to respond
Key Bible passages:
John 16:7
Ezekiel 37:27
John 1:14
Matthew 28:20
Romans 8:29
Post-sermon questions:
Meditate: Do you expect to encounter Jesus?
Reflect: Do you live with an awareness that the Holy Spirit is not only present with us, but also in us? Do you live with reverent awareness that you body is the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit?
Application: How are you limiting the work of the Holy Spirit in your life?
