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John 15:26
Verse
Context
The Hatred of the World
25But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated Me without reason.’ 26When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father—He will testify about Me.27And you also must testify, because you have been with Me from the beginning.
Sermons
Warren Wiersbe
A.W. Tozer
Willie Mullan
Roy Daniel
Erlo Stegen
Brian BrodersenSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But when the Comforter is come - See on Joh 14:16 (note). He shall testify and ye also shall bear witness - He shall bear his testimony in your souls, and ye shall bear this testimony to the world. And so they did, by their miracles, their preaching, their writings, their lives, and by their deaths. Our Lord appears to reason thus: In every respect the unbelief of the Jews is inexcusable. They believe not my doctrine, notwithstanding its purity and holiness. They believe not in the Father who sent me, notwithstanding I have confirmed my mission by the most astonishing miracles. One thing only remains now to be done, i.e. to send them the Holy Spirit, to convince them of sin, righteousness, and judgment; and this he shall do, not only by his influence upon their hearts, but also by your words: and when they shall have resisted this Spirit, then the cup of their iniquity shall be filled up, and wrath shall come upon them to the uttermost. But in what sense can it be said that Christ wrought more miracles than any other had done, Joh 15:24? - for Elijah and Elisha raised the dead; cured diseases; and made fire to come down from heaven. Did Christ do greater miracles than Moses did in Egypt - at the Red Sea - at the rock of Horeb, and at the rock of Kadesh? Did Christ do greater miracles than Joshua did, in the destruction of Jericho - in the passage of Jordan - in causing the sun and moon to stand still? To all this it may be answered, Christ's miracles were greater: 1. As to their number. 2. As to their utility - they were wrought to comfort the distressed, and to save the lost. 3. Christ wrought all his miracles by his own power alone; and they wrought theirs through his power only. 4. Christ wrought his numerous miracles in the space of three or four years, and in the presence of the same people; and the others mere wrought from time to time in different centuries. Some critics have confined the whole of this chapter to the apostles of our Lord, and the work of propagating Christianity to which they had been called. The whole comment of Rosenmuller on this chapter proceeds on this plan; and at once shows how nugatory it is. What learned labor has there been in the world, to banish the spirit of Christianity from the earth, while the letter was professed to be scrupulously regarded! 1. The spiritual union spoken of by Christ is not merely necessary for his primitive disciples, but also for all who would be Christians on earth, and beatified spirits in heaven. 2. The brotherly love here inculcated is the duty and interest of every Christian soul on the face of the earth. 3. The necessity of adorning the Christian profession, by bringing forth corresponding fruits, is the duty of all who name the name of the Lord Jesus. 4. The appointment to, and preparation for, the work of the sacred ministry, must ever be primarily with Christ: for those who have no higher authority than that which they derive from man are never likely to be useful in Christianizing the world. 5. The persecution to which the apostles were exposed has been the common lot of Christians from the foundation of Christianity. 6. The consolations and influences of Christ's Spirit have not been the exclusive privileges of the apostles; they are the birthright of all the sons and daughters of God.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Christ having spoken of the great opposition which his gospel was likely to meet with in the world, and the hardships that would be put upon the preachers of it, lest any should fear that they and it would be run down by that violent torrent, he here intimates to all those that were well-wishers to his cause and interest what effectual provision was made for supporting it, both by the principal testimony of the Spirit (Joh 15:26), and the subordinate testimony of the apostles (Joh 15:27), and testimonies are the proper supports of truth. I. It is here promised that the blessed Spirit shall maintain the cause of Christ in the world, notwithstanding the opposition it should meet with. Christ, when he was reviled, committed his injured cause to his Father, and did not lose by his silence, for the Comforter came, pleaded it powerfully, and carried it triumphantly. "When the Comforter or Advocate is come, who proceedeth from the Father, and whom I will send to supply the want of my bodily presence, he shall testify of me against those that hate me without cause." We have more in this verse concerning the Holy Ghost than in any one verse besides in the Bible; and, being baptized into his name, we are concerned to acquaint ourselves with him as far as he is revealed. 1. Here is an account of him in his essence, or subsistence rather. He is the Spirit of truth, who proceedeth from the Father. Here, (1.) He is spoken of as a distinct person; not a quality or property, but a person under the proper name of a Spirit, and proper title of the Spirit of truth, a title fitly given him where he is brought in testifying. (2.) As a divine person, that proceedeth from the Father, by out-goings that were of old, from everlasting. The spirit or breath of man, called the breath of life, proceeds from the man, and by it modified he delivers his mind, by it invigorated he sometimes exerts his strength to blow out what he would extinguish, and blow up what he would excite. Thus the blessed Spirit is the emanation of divine light, and the energy of divine power. The rays of the sun, by which it dispenses and diffuses its light, heat, and influence, proceed from the sun, and yet are one with it. The Nicene Creed says, The Spirit proceedeth from the Father and the Son, for he is called the Spirit of the Son, Gal 4:6. And the Son is here said to send him. The Greek church chose rather to say, from the Father by the Son. 2. In his mission. (1.) He will come in a more plentiful effusion of his gifts, graces, and powers, than had ever yet been. Christ had been long the ho erchomenos - he that should come; now the blessed Spirit is so. (2.) I will send him to you from the Father. He had said (Joh 14:16), I will pray the Father, and he shall send you the Comforter, which bespeaks the Spirit to be the fruit of the intercession Christ makes within the veil: here he says, I will send him, which bespeaks him to be the fruit of his dominion within the veil. The Spirit was sent, [1.] By Christ as Mediator, now ascended on high to give gifts unto men, and all power being given to him. [2.] From the Father: "Not only from heaven, my Father's house" (the Spirit was given in a sound from heaven, Act 2:2), "but according to my Father's will and appointment, and with his concurring power and authority." [3.] To the apostles to instruct them in their preaching, enable them for working, and carry them through their sufferings. He was given to them and their successors, both in Christianity and in the ministry; to them and their seed, and their seed's seed, according to that promise, Isa 59:21. 3. In his office and operations, which are two: - (1.) One implied in the title given to him; he is the Comforter, or Advocate. An advocate for Christ, to maintain his cause against the world's infidelity, a comforter to the saints against the world's hatred. (2.) Another expressed: He shall testify of me. He is not only an advocate, but a witness for Jesus Christ; he is one of the three that bear record in heaven, and the first of the three that bear witness on earth. Jo1 5:7, Jo1 5:8. He instructed the apostles, and enabled them to work miracles; he indited the scriptures, which are the standing witnesses that testify of Christ, Joh 5:39. The power of the ministry is derived from the Spirit, for he qualifies ministers; and the power of Christianity too, for he sanctifies Christians, and in both testifies of Christ. II. It is here promised that the apostles also, by the Spirit's assistance, should have the honour of being Christ's witnesses (Joh 15:27): And you also shall bear witness of me, being competent witnesses, for you have been with me from the beginning of my ministry. Observe here, 1. That the apostles were appointed to be witnesses for Christ in the world. When he had said, The Spirit shall testify, he adds, And you also shall bear witness. Note, The Spirit's working is not to supersede, but to engage and encourage ours. Though the Spirit testify, ministers also must bear their testimony, and people attend to it; for the Spirit of grace witnesses and works by the means of grace. The apostles were the first witnesses that were called in the famous trial between Christ and the prince of this world, which issued in the ejectment of the intruder. This intimates, (1.) The work cut out for them; they were to attest the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, concerning Christ, for the recovering of his just right, and the maintaining of his crown and dignity. Though Christ's disciples fled when they should have been witnesses for him upon his trial before the high priest and Pilate, yet after the Spirit was poured out upon them they appeared courageous in vindication of the cause of Christ against the accusations it was loaded with. The truth of the Christian religion was to be proved very much by the evidence of matter of fact, especially Christ's resurrection, of which the apostles were in a particular manner chosen witnesses (Act 10:41), and they bore their testimony accordingly, Act 3:15; Act 5:32. Christ's ministers are his witnesses. (2.) The honour put upon them hereby - that they should be workers together with God. "The Spirit shall testify of me, and you also, under the conduct of the Spirit, and in concurrence with the Spirit (who will preserve you from mistaking in that which you relate on your own knowledge, and will inform you of that which you cannot know but by revelation), shall bear witness." This might encourage them against the hatred and contempt of the world, that Christ had honoured them, and would own them. 2. That they were qualified to be so: You have been with me from the beginning. They not only heard his public sermons, but had constant private converse with him. He went about doing good, and, while others saw the wonderful and merciful works that he did in their own town and country only, those that went about with him were witnesses of them all. They had likewise opportunity of observing the unspotted purity of his conversation, and could witness for him that they never saw in him, nor heard from him, any thing that had the least tincture of human frailty. Note. (1.) We have great reason to receive the record which the apostles gave of Christ, for they did not speak by hearsay, but what they had the greatest assurance of imaginable, Pe2 1:16; Jo1 1:1, Jo1 1:3. (2.) Those are best able to bear witness for Christ that have themselves been with him, by faith, hope, and love, and by living a life of communion with God in him. Ministers must first learn Christ, and then preach him. Those speak best of the things of God that speak experimentally. It is particularly a great advantage to have been acquainted with Christ from the beginning, to understand all things from the very first, Luk 1:3. To have been with him from the beginning of our days. An early acquaintance and constant converse with the gospel of Christ will make a man like a good householder.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:26 But I will send you the Advocate—the Spirit of truth: Like a legal advocate, the Holy Spirit counsels and protects Jesus’ followers.
John 15:26
The Hatred of the World
25But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated Me without reason.’ 26When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father—He will testify about Me.27And you also must testify, because you have been with Me from the beginning.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Meet Your Psychiatrist: He Gives You Inner Power
By Warren Wiersbe5.6K34:37PSA 119:105JHN 14:26JHN 15:26ACT 1:8In this sermon, the speaker addresses the disciples' discouragement and fear in the upper room after Jesus revealed that one of them would betray him and that Peter would deny him. Jesus then comforts them by introducing the Holy Spirit as their advocate, defender, helper, and counselor. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being encouraged by the Holy Spirit in order to be effective witnesses for the Lord. He explains that the Holy Spirit teaches and reminds believers of the Word of God, and also empowers them to obey it. The speaker concludes by highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in convicting the world through believers' personal witness, prayer, preaching, distribution of literature, and other forms of communication.
No Proxies
By A.W. Tozer3.1K05:40Christian LifeMAT 28:19JHN 1:29JHN 15:26ACT 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being a witness for Jesus Christ. He uses John the Baptist as an example of a good witness who pointed people to Jesus. The preacher highlights that the power of the church's witness lies in its focus on Jesus, rather than on theological debates or personal agendas. He emphasizes that only the Holy Spirit can truly convert and transform individuals into Christians. The preacher encourages believers to go forth into the world, testifying about God sending His Son, Jesus' death and resurrection, and His future reign over the earth.
(John) His Own Nation Received Him Not
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:00:01RejectionMAT 5:16JHN 12:37JHN 13:34JHN 14:2JHN 15:26JHN 17:202CO 8:9In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the capacity of the nation and the immutability of the world. He emphasizes the activity of the Lord and the deity of the tongue. The preacher also discusses the mentality of the rulers and the simplicity of the gospel. He encourages the audience to examine the miracles performed by Jesus in the twelve chapters of the Bible and highlights the lack of belief despite witnessing these wonders. The sermon concludes by mentioning that Jesus turns his attention to his own followers and begins teaching them important truths.
The Agency of the Holy Spirit in Sanctification
By John Murray1.2K38:11SanctificationJHN 14:17JHN 15:26JHN 16:30ROM 8:132CO 4:6GAL 5:22EPH 1:181TH 5:231JN 2:201JN 4:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. He references various Bible verses, such as 1 John 2:20 and 3:27, to support his point. The preacher highlights that the Holy Spirit abides in believers and works in their hearts to bring stability and conformity to the image of God. He also emphasizes that the measure of God's grace is not limited to our consciousness and that the Holy Spirit knows the depths of our iniquity. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the importance of knowledge of the truth, which is found in Jesus Christ, and how Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of truth.
Balanced Theology and Christianity
By Roy Daniel9071:10:14BalanceEPH 4:11MAT 28:19JHN 15:261CO 12:281TH 4:3In this sermon, the speaker discusses the idea of Christians being unbalanced in their faith. He uses four volunteers to illustrate different ways in which people can be unbalanced. One volunteer, Brandon, is portrayed as someone who watches terrifying movies and justifies it under the idea of having liberty in faith. Another volunteer, Aaron, is shown to have a television but only watches "pretty good" programs, yet it still influences his life. The speaker also mentions the concept of the body of Christ and how some people can become unbalanced by focusing too much on it. The sermon emphasizes the importance of finding balance in our faith and not allowing certain aspects to consume us.
The Spirit of Truth
By Erlo Stegen88352:55Spirit of TruthThe Holy SpiritTruthfulness in FaithJHN 15:26ACT 2:1Erlo Stegen emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit, referred to as the Spirit of Truth, in the establishment and growth of the Church. He reflects on the historical context of the Sabbath and the consequences of straying from God's design, using France's shift to a ten-day week as a cautionary tale. Stegen urges believers to be in prayer and to seek the Holy Spirit actively, highlighting that true fellowship with God requires honesty and sincerity. He warns against hypocrisy and the dangers of living a double life, asserting that the Spirit of Truth cannot dwell in those who are not upright. Ultimately, he calls for a return to genuine worship and a commitment to living in truth as a reflection of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.
(Colossians) Christ: The Head of the Church
By Brian Brodersen8051:00:50MAT 6:33JHN 5:24JHN 14:25JHN 15:26JHN 16:12COL 1:18In this sermon, the preacher begins by praising and worshiping God through Jesus Christ. He acknowledges the rebellious and plotting nature of the world and prays for strength and faith to carry out the work of rescuing people from darkness. The preacher highlights Psalm 2 as a prophecy of today, where the nations rage against God and plot to break free from Him. He emphasizes the absence of fear of God in modern society and warns of the judgment and destruction that will come without it. The preacher also mentions that even scientists are now admitting that the universe had a beginning, contradicting the idea of eternal matter.
The Fullness of the Holy Spirit
By Corrie Ten Boom371:28:48Empowerment for ServiceHoly SpiritJOL 2:28MAT 28:19JHN 5:39JHN 15:26ACT 2:39ROM 5:5ROM 8:16EPH 5:18EPH 6:102TI 1:7Corrie Ten Boom emphasizes the significance of the fullness of the Holy Spirit and the baptism of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to seek this divine empowerment for service and to glorify Jesus. She shares personal experiences and biblical teachings, highlighting that the greatest sin for a Christian is to refuse the Holy Spirit. Corrie encourages the congregation to pray for a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit, reminding them that true power and love come from being filled with the Spirit, which enables them to overcome sin and serve effectively in God's kingdom.
Betrayal: Its Prominence & Importance in God's End-Time Plan
By Mike Bickle361:08:30Spiritual GrowthBetrayalPSA 31:5MIC 7:18MAT 24:10LUK 21:16JHN 15:26JHN 16:1JHN 17:22PHP 1:29HEB 12:14REV 12:10Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of betrayal in God's end-time plan, highlighting how it serves as a catalyst for spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with God. He explains that betrayal, particularly within the church, is a painful yet transformative experience that can lead believers to a greater understanding of Jesus' leadership and love. Bickle warns that many will face betrayal, fueled by offense, but encourages the church to respond with grace and compassion, reflecting the love of Christ even towards those who betray them. He draws parallels with the life of David, illustrating how betrayal can lead to spiritual maturity and a deeper relationship with God. Ultimately, Bickle calls for the church to prepare for these challenges, ensuring that they remain anchored in faith and love amidst the trials of the end times.
The Working of the Holy Spirit
By Michael Koulianos2913:11Holy SpiritThe Role of the Holy SpiritTransformation into Christ's LikenessISA 11:2MAT 10:20LUK 4:1JHN 3:34JHN 14:26JHN 15:26ACT 15:28ROM 8:291CO 2:10GAL 5:22Michael Koulianos emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in revealing Jesus to believers and transforming them into His likeness. He explains that God's primary goal is not just to use us but to shape our character to reflect Christ, which often involves enduring trials and long suffering. The Holy Spirit is described as the Spirit of the Father and the Spirit of Jesus, guiding and teaching us in truth, and helping us navigate life's challenges. Koulianos encourages the congregation to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and to foster a deep relationship with Him, as He is essential for understanding truth and living a Christ-like life.
The Person of the Holy Spirit (Pt. 2)
By Michael Koulianos2039:15Holy SpiritRelationship with the FatherThe Holiness of the Holy SpiritMAT 10:20JHN 3:34JHN 15:26ROM 8:14HEB 1:1Michael Koulianos emphasizes the holiness and extremity of the Holy Spirit's character, reminding us that He is not only the Holy Spirit but also the Spirit of the Father. He explains that understanding the Holy Spirit's holiness leads to a deeper relationship with God, who is more loving, gracious, and patient than we can comprehend. Koulianos highlights the importance of being led by the Holy Spirit as a sign of true sonship, and he encourages believers to approach God as their Father, emphasizing the need for a genuine relationship rather than a transactional one. He concludes by stressing that our connection to the Father is rooted in our relationship with Jesus, facilitated by the Holy Spirit.
The Relation of the Spirit to the Trinity
By G. Campbell Morgan0The TrinityThe Holy SpiritGEN 1:26NUM 6:24ISA 6:3MAT 28:19JHN 1:3JHN 3:34JHN 14:26JHN 15:261CO 2:101JN 5:7G. Campbell Morgan explores the profound mystery of the Trinity, emphasizing that while the doctrine is a declared fact in Scripture, it remains beyond human comprehension. He discusses various analogies that attempt to illustrate the Trinity but ultimately concludes that they fall short of capturing its essence. Morgan highlights the roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in creation and revelation, asserting that the Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity, proceeding from the Father and revealing the divine consciousness. He stresses that the relationship among the Trinity is a mystery that cannot be fully explained but is essential for understanding God's nature and work in the world.
The Mission of the Comforter John 14 - 16
By John Nelson Darby0Comfort in ChristThe Role of the Holy SpiritJHN 14:2JHN 14:16JHN 14:21JHN 14:27JHN 15:10JHN 15:26JHN 16:7JHN 16:13ROM 8:9ROM 8:16John Nelson Darby emphasizes the dual role of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter in John 14-16, highlighting that the Father sends the Holy Spirit in Christ's name to establish our relationship with Him, while Christ sends the Spirit to reveal His glory and comfort the believers. He reassures the disciples of Christ's return and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, which allows them to know their relationship with the Father and their identity in Christ. Darby explains that the Holy Spirit's presence is essential for understanding our salvation and living out our faith, as it empowers believers to reflect Christ's love and righteousness in their lives.
Point to Jesus
By K.P. Yohannan0Pointing to JesusHumility and SubmissionJOB 42:5JHN 15:26K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of pointing others to Jesus rather than focusing on personal abilities or positions, as illustrated by a conflict between an older staff member and a younger leader in his ministry. He highlights that losing sight of Jesus leads to disunity and discouragement, while seeing Jesus brings clarity and restoration, as demonstrated in the lives of Job and Isaiah. Yohannan encourages leaders to pray and guide others towards Jesus, as true humility and submission come from recognizing Him. The ultimate goal is to connect people with Jesus, who is the source of all truth and life, rather than merely following teachings or doctrines. The sermon concludes with a call to study the Bible with the intent of seeing Jesus, rather than just acquiring knowledge.
The Philosophy of Prayer.
By F.B. Meyer0Role of the Holy SpiritWitnessingJHN 15:26F.B. Meyer emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the ministry of the Church, stating that the primary task of ministers is to bear witness to the truth of Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension rather than to argue or defend God. He illustrates the partnership between the preacher and the Holy Spirit, likening it to a saw pit where both the visible and invisible work together in harmony. Meyer encourages ministers to recognize that their preaching is empowered by the Holy Spirit, which ensures that the message resonates deeply and permanently in the hearts of the congregation. He shares practical examples of how visual aids can enhance the preaching experience, demonstrating the importance of making the message accessible and impactful. Ultimately, he calls for a reliance on the Holy Spirit to transform lives through the testimony of Christ.
Learning the Truth
By T. Austin-Sparks0DiscipleshipTruthJHN 8:31JHN 8:44JHN 8:55JHN 14:6JHN 14:17JHN 15:26ROM 1:18ROM 1:25EPH 4:21EPH 4:24T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the necessity of knowing the truth as embodied in Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate source of freedom and life. He explains that true discipleship involves abiding in Christ's word, which leads to genuine understanding and liberation from sin. Sparks warns against the falsehoods of the world and the deceptive nature of human conviction, urging believers to rely solely on Christ for their identity and salvation. He highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers into all truth, ensuring that they are not misled by their own flawed perceptions. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep, abiding faith in Christ as the foundation for spiritual growth and freedom.
Witnessing in Power
By D.L. Moody0Power of the Holy SpiritWitnessingJHN 15:26ACT 2:1D.L. Moody emphasizes the critical role of the Holy Spirit in effective witness-bearing, asserting that the Church lacks understanding of this power. He references John 15:26, highlighting that the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, will testify of Christ, and believers are called to bear witness as well. Moody illustrates this with the example of Peter at Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit empowered his testimony, leading to mass conviction. He stresses that without the Holy Spirit, preaching lacks effectiveness, and believers must study God's Word to align with the Spirit's guidance.
Greater Work
By D.L. Moody0Preaching ChristThe Power of the Holy SpiritMAT 28:19MRK 16:15JHN 14:12JHN 15:26ACT 1:8ACT 2:36ACT 2:40ROM 1:161CO 2:42TI 4:2D.L. Moody emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in witnessing to Christ, asserting that the greater works Jesus spoke of refer to influencing and converting the hearts of sinful men rather than performing physical miracles. He reflects on the miracle of Pentecost, where Peter, empowered by the Spirit, preached to a hostile crowd, resulting in the conversion of thousands. Moody critiques modern preaching that obscures the message of the Cross and calls for a return to presenting Christ plainly and powerfully. He believes that when Christ is exalted in preaching, the Holy Spirit will confirm the message with signs and wonders. Ultimately, Moody urges believers to testify of Christ, as the world desperately needs the light He brings.
"Spiritual" Love
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual LoveThe Role of the Holy SpiritJHN 4:24JHN 14:17JHN 15:26ROM 5:51CO 2:122CO 5:14GAL 5:22EPH 3:161JN 3:241JN 4:19A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true spiritual love for Jesus transcends human affection and can only be expressed through the Holy Spirit. He argues that while humans can love Jesus in a way similar to loving historical figures, this pales in comparison to the divine love that the Spirit enables. Tozer warns against superficial expressions of love that lack the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, asserting that genuine love for Christ must recognize Him as God. He critiques modern expressions of love for Jesus that do not stem from a deep spiritual understanding or acknowledgment of human sinfulness. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a love that honors Jesus as the Eternal Son, empowered by the Spirit within us.
The Spirit of Truth
By Andrew Murray0Truth and KnowledgeThe Holy SpiritPRO 3:5JHN 15:26JHN 16:13Andrew Murray emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth, who guides believers into all truth by revealing Christ within them. He contrasts the pursuit of knowledge, which led humanity astray in the Garden of Eden, with the life-giving truth that comes from obedience to God. Murray warns against relying on human wisdom and encourages a humble, teachable spirit that waits for the Spirit's guidance. He highlights that true understanding and spiritual growth come from the inner work of the Holy Spirit, who makes Christ's presence a living reality in the believer's life. Ultimately, the Spirit's mission is to glorify Christ and deepen our relationship with Him.
The Spirit of Power
By Andrew Murray0Empowerment by the Holy SpiritWitnessing for ChristMAT 28:19LUK 24:49JHN 15:26ACT 1:5ACT 1:81CO 2:32CO 4:72CO 12:9EPH 1:17EPH 3:16Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of being baptized with the Holy Spirit to receive divine power for witnessing Christ. He explains that the Holy Spirit empowers believers not just for personal holiness but for effective service in glorifying Jesus and fulfilling the Great Commission. Murray highlights that true power comes from surrendering to the Holy Spirit, who works through our weaknesses to accomplish God's purposes. He urges the Church to seek this power with the intent of being effective witnesses for Christ, as the world awaits the manifestation of God's power through His people. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep dependence on the Holy Spirit to enable believers to live out their calling as witnesses of Jesus.
The Personality of the Holy Spirit
By R.A. Torrey0Relationship with the Holy SpiritPersonality of the Holy SpiritNEH 9:20JHN 14:16JHN 15:26ACT 16:6ROM 8:14ROM 8:261CO 2:10GAL 4:6EPH 4:30R.A. Torrey emphasizes the necessity of understanding the Holy Spirit as a Divine Person rather than merely an influence or power. He argues that recognizing the Holy Spirit's personality is crucial for genuine worship, spiritual growth, and a transformative Christian experience. Torrey highlights that the Holy Spirit possesses characteristics of personality, such as knowledge, will, and emotion, and that He actively engages in the lives of believers, guiding and interceding for them. The sermon calls for believers to cultivate a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit, acknowledging His role as a loving and wise companion in their spiritual journey. Ultimately, Torrey seeks to deepen the congregation's understanding and appreciation of the Holy Spirit's presence in their lives.
The Holy Spirit in the Gospel of John
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0JHN 3:5JHN 4:14JHN 4:23JHN 6:63JHN 14:16JHN 15:26JHN 16:7JHN 20:22Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the progressive revelation of the Holy Spirit in the Gospel of John, emphasizing how Jesus revealed the truth of His identity as the Son of God and the role of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. The Gospel of John serves as a bridge from Judaism to Christianity, unveiling the teachings of Jesus regarding eternal life and the work of the Holy Spirit. Through various passages, the importance of the new birth by the Spirit, the indwelling of the Spirit, and the Spirit's role in worship, teaching, and guiding believers is highlighted, culminating in the promise of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter and the Spirit of Truth.
How to Recognize the Manifestation of the Holy Spirit
By Paris Reidhead0JHN 4:10JHN 14:16JHN 14:26JHN 15:26JHN 16:8JHN 16:13ACT 1:3Paris Reidhead preaches a series of messages on the Person and Work of the Holy Spirit, focusing on how to recognize the manifestation of the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit, acknowledging Jesus Christ as Lord, being in harmony with the Word, and manifesting the fruit of the Spirit. Reidhead provides seven evidences from the Bible to help believers discern the genuine manifestation of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
Hebrews 9:15-23
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 26:28JHN 8:18JHN 13:34JHN 14:23JHN 15:26JHN 17:24ROM 8:382CO 6:16EPH 6:11PHP 3:20HEB 9:15John Chrysostom preaches about the significance of Christ as the Mediator of the New Testament, emphasizing how His death brought redemption and the promise of an eternal inheritance to believers. He explains the concept of a testament, illustrating how Christ's death secured the New Testament and purified believers. Chrysostom highlights the heavenly nature of believers and the need to rise above earthly concerns to dwell in spiritual heights. He encourages the congregation to pursue virtue and willfully choose the path to heavenly inheritance through Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But when the Comforter is come - See on Joh 14:16 (note). He shall testify and ye also shall bear witness - He shall bear his testimony in your souls, and ye shall bear this testimony to the world. And so they did, by their miracles, their preaching, their writings, their lives, and by their deaths. Our Lord appears to reason thus: In every respect the unbelief of the Jews is inexcusable. They believe not my doctrine, notwithstanding its purity and holiness. They believe not in the Father who sent me, notwithstanding I have confirmed my mission by the most astonishing miracles. One thing only remains now to be done, i.e. to send them the Holy Spirit, to convince them of sin, righteousness, and judgment; and this he shall do, not only by his influence upon their hearts, but also by your words: and when they shall have resisted this Spirit, then the cup of their iniquity shall be filled up, and wrath shall come upon them to the uttermost. But in what sense can it be said that Christ wrought more miracles than any other had done, Joh 15:24? - for Elijah and Elisha raised the dead; cured diseases; and made fire to come down from heaven. Did Christ do greater miracles than Moses did in Egypt - at the Red Sea - at the rock of Horeb, and at the rock of Kadesh? Did Christ do greater miracles than Joshua did, in the destruction of Jericho - in the passage of Jordan - in causing the sun and moon to stand still? To all this it may be answered, Christ's miracles were greater: 1. As to their number. 2. As to their utility - they were wrought to comfort the distressed, and to save the lost. 3. Christ wrought all his miracles by his own power alone; and they wrought theirs through his power only. 4. Christ wrought his numerous miracles in the space of three or four years, and in the presence of the same people; and the others mere wrought from time to time in different centuries. Some critics have confined the whole of this chapter to the apostles of our Lord, and the work of propagating Christianity to which they had been called. The whole comment of Rosenmuller on this chapter proceeds on this plan; and at once shows how nugatory it is. What learned labor has there been in the world, to banish the spirit of Christianity from the earth, while the letter was professed to be scrupulously regarded! 1. The spiritual union spoken of by Christ is not merely necessary for his primitive disciples, but also for all who would be Christians on earth, and beatified spirits in heaven. 2. The brotherly love here inculcated is the duty and interest of every Christian soul on the face of the earth. 3. The necessity of adorning the Christian profession, by bringing forth corresponding fruits, is the duty of all who name the name of the Lord Jesus. 4. The appointment to, and preparation for, the work of the sacred ministry, must ever be primarily with Christ: for those who have no higher authority than that which they derive from man are never likely to be useful in Christianizing the world. 5. The persecution to which the apostles were exposed has been the common lot of Christians from the foundation of Christianity. 6. The consolations and influences of Christ's Spirit have not been the exclusive privileges of the apostles; they are the birthright of all the sons and daughters of God.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Christ having spoken of the great opposition which his gospel was likely to meet with in the world, and the hardships that would be put upon the preachers of it, lest any should fear that they and it would be run down by that violent torrent, he here intimates to all those that were well-wishers to his cause and interest what effectual provision was made for supporting it, both by the principal testimony of the Spirit (Joh 15:26), and the subordinate testimony of the apostles (Joh 15:27), and testimonies are the proper supports of truth. I. It is here promised that the blessed Spirit shall maintain the cause of Christ in the world, notwithstanding the opposition it should meet with. Christ, when he was reviled, committed his injured cause to his Father, and did not lose by his silence, for the Comforter came, pleaded it powerfully, and carried it triumphantly. "When the Comforter or Advocate is come, who proceedeth from the Father, and whom I will send to supply the want of my bodily presence, he shall testify of me against those that hate me without cause." We have more in this verse concerning the Holy Ghost than in any one verse besides in the Bible; and, being baptized into his name, we are concerned to acquaint ourselves with him as far as he is revealed. 1. Here is an account of him in his essence, or subsistence rather. He is the Spirit of truth, who proceedeth from the Father. Here, (1.) He is spoken of as a distinct person; not a quality or property, but a person under the proper name of a Spirit, and proper title of the Spirit of truth, a title fitly given him where he is brought in testifying. (2.) As a divine person, that proceedeth from the Father, by out-goings that were of old, from everlasting. The spirit or breath of man, called the breath of life, proceeds from the man, and by it modified he delivers his mind, by it invigorated he sometimes exerts his strength to blow out what he would extinguish, and blow up what he would excite. Thus the blessed Spirit is the emanation of divine light, and the energy of divine power. The rays of the sun, by which it dispenses and diffuses its light, heat, and influence, proceed from the sun, and yet are one with it. The Nicene Creed says, The Spirit proceedeth from the Father and the Son, for he is called the Spirit of the Son, Gal 4:6. And the Son is here said to send him. The Greek church chose rather to say, from the Father by the Son. 2. In his mission. (1.) He will come in a more plentiful effusion of his gifts, graces, and powers, than had ever yet been. Christ had been long the ho erchomenos - he that should come; now the blessed Spirit is so. (2.) I will send him to you from the Father. He had said (Joh 14:16), I will pray the Father, and he shall send you the Comforter, which bespeaks the Spirit to be the fruit of the intercession Christ makes within the veil: here he says, I will send him, which bespeaks him to be the fruit of his dominion within the veil. The Spirit was sent, [1.] By Christ as Mediator, now ascended on high to give gifts unto men, and all power being given to him. [2.] From the Father: "Not only from heaven, my Father's house" (the Spirit was given in a sound from heaven, Act 2:2), "but according to my Father's will and appointment, and with his concurring power and authority." [3.] To the apostles to instruct them in their preaching, enable them for working, and carry them through their sufferings. He was given to them and their successors, both in Christianity and in the ministry; to them and their seed, and their seed's seed, according to that promise, Isa 59:21. 3. In his office and operations, which are two: - (1.) One implied in the title given to him; he is the Comforter, or Advocate. An advocate for Christ, to maintain his cause against the world's infidelity, a comforter to the saints against the world's hatred. (2.) Another expressed: He shall testify of me. He is not only an advocate, but a witness for Jesus Christ; he is one of the three that bear record in heaven, and the first of the three that bear witness on earth. Jo1 5:7, Jo1 5:8. He instructed the apostles, and enabled them to work miracles; he indited the scriptures, which are the standing witnesses that testify of Christ, Joh 5:39. The power of the ministry is derived from the Spirit, for he qualifies ministers; and the power of Christianity too, for he sanctifies Christians, and in both testifies of Christ. II. It is here promised that the apostles also, by the Spirit's assistance, should have the honour of being Christ's witnesses (Joh 15:27): And you also shall bear witness of me, being competent witnesses, for you have been with me from the beginning of my ministry. Observe here, 1. That the apostles were appointed to be witnesses for Christ in the world. When he had said, The Spirit shall testify, he adds, And you also shall bear witness. Note, The Spirit's working is not to supersede, but to engage and encourage ours. Though the Spirit testify, ministers also must bear their testimony, and people attend to it; for the Spirit of grace witnesses and works by the means of grace. The apostles were the first witnesses that were called in the famous trial between Christ and the prince of this world, which issued in the ejectment of the intruder. This intimates, (1.) The work cut out for them; they were to attest the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, concerning Christ, for the recovering of his just right, and the maintaining of his crown and dignity. Though Christ's disciples fled when they should have been witnesses for him upon his trial before the high priest and Pilate, yet after the Spirit was poured out upon them they appeared courageous in vindication of the cause of Christ against the accusations it was loaded with. The truth of the Christian religion was to be proved very much by the evidence of matter of fact, especially Christ's resurrection, of which the apostles were in a particular manner chosen witnesses (Act 10:41), and they bore their testimony accordingly, Act 3:15; Act 5:32. Christ's ministers are his witnesses. (2.) The honour put upon them hereby - that they should be workers together with God. "The Spirit shall testify of me, and you also, under the conduct of the Spirit, and in concurrence with the Spirit (who will preserve you from mistaking in that which you relate on your own knowledge, and will inform you of that which you cannot know but by revelation), shall bear witness." This might encourage them against the hatred and contempt of the world, that Christ had honoured them, and would own them. 2. That they were qualified to be so: You have been with me from the beginning. They not only heard his public sermons, but had constant private converse with him. He went about doing good, and, while others saw the wonderful and merciful works that he did in their own town and country only, those that went about with him were witnesses of them all. They had likewise opportunity of observing the unspotted purity of his conversation, and could witness for him that they never saw in him, nor heard from him, any thing that had the least tincture of human frailty. Note. (1.) We have great reason to receive the record which the apostles gave of Christ, for they did not speak by hearsay, but what they had the greatest assurance of imaginable, Pe2 1:16; Jo1 1:1, Jo1 1:3. (2.) Those are best able to bear witness for Christ that have themselves been with him, by faith, hope, and love, and by living a life of communion with God in him. Ministers must first learn Christ, and then preach him. Those speak best of the things of God that speak experimentally. It is particularly a great advantage to have been acquainted with Christ from the beginning, to understand all things from the very first, Luk 1:3. To have been with him from the beginning of our days. An early acquaintance and constant converse with the gospel of Christ will make a man like a good householder.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:26 But I will send you the Advocate—the Spirit of truth: Like a legal advocate, the Holy Spirit counsels and protects Jesus’ followers.