June 21, 2025

THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“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. And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me. Righteousness is available because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more. Judgment will come because the ruler of this world has already been judged.”

John 16:7–11 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

When I was growing up reading the King James Version of the Bible, the Holy Spirit was called the “Holy Ghost.” That was a little confusing as a kid—especially after watching cartoons like Casper the Friendly Ghost on Saturday mornings. Casper was silly, floating around causing trouble but meaning no harm. Then on Sunday, I’d go to church and hear about the Holy Ghost. The contrast was comical—and confusing.

Thankfully, more modern translations refer to Him as the Holy Spirit, which helps clarify that He really is the third person of the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

But for many, the Holy Spirit’s role still feels mysterious. To understand Him better, we turn to Jesus’ words in John 16.

Jesus Introduces the Advocate

In this passage, Jesus is preparing His disciples for His departure—His death, resurrection, and return to the Father. He makes a surprising statement: “It is best for you that I go away.” Why? Because then He would send the Advocate—the Holy Spirit.

The word Advocate (Greek: Parakletos) refers to someone who comes alongside to help, support, comfort, and represent. It’s a legal term—a counselor, a defender, someone who speaks on your behalf.

The Holy Spirit’s Work

According to Jesus, when the Holy Spirit comes, He will:

1. Convict the world of sin – The Spirit reveals the truth about our need for a Savior. Sin is ultimately not just wrongdoing; it’s refusing to believe in Jesus.

2. Reveal righteousness – Because Jesus returned to the Father, we no longer see Him physically—but the Spirit shows us what right relationship with God looks like and draws us to it.

3. Announce judgment – The Spirit reminds us that the enemy—the ruler of this world—has already been judged. Jesus has won the victory.

This work of conviction and revelation is not just external—it’s deeply personal. We can’t come to Christ without the Spirit drawing us. And we can’t live the Christian life without the Spirit empowering us.

The Spirit in Us and Through Us

The Holy Spirit doesn’t just work around us; He works in us and through us. Scripture says we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. He dwells in us—and moves through us to impact others.

Look at Acts 2. When the Holy Spirit filled the disciples, Peter stood up to preach. And the Spirit used his words to bring conviction and salvation to 3,000 people in one day. Peter was simply a vessel—but the Advocate worked powerfully through him.

Our Response

The Holy Spirit isn’t given to us just for our comfort or encouragement. He is given to equip us to live righteously—and to participate in God’s mission on earth. His presence in our lives brings power, purpose, and direction.

So, let’s open our hearts today to the work of the Holy Spirit—not just for ourselves, but so that His Kingdom may come through us.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, I yield to Your work in my life today. Work through me for Your glory. Empower me to live in righteousness and to help bring others into Your Kingdom. Amen.

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