Expository Thoughts On John - JOHN 15:22-27
J.C. Ryle explains how Jesus reveals the consequences of rejecting divine truth and the role of the Holy Spirit in testifying to Christ amidst opposition.
In this expository sermon on John 15:22-27, J.C. Ryle explores the profound truths Jesus teaches about sin, rejection, and the work of the Holy Spirit. Ryle carefully unpacks how Jesus' words reveal the seriousness of rejecting divine truth and the fulfillment of prophecy in Christ's suffering. He also highlights the vital role of the Holy Spirit as the Advocate who empowers believers to testify about Jesus. This sermon challenges listeners to understand their accountability before God and encourages steadfast witness in the face of opposition.
Text
"If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. But they no longer have any excuse for their sin. The one who hates me hates my Father too. If I had not performed among them the miraculous deeds that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. But now they have seen the deeds and have hated both me and my Father. Now this happened to fulfill the word that is written in their law, ‘They hated me without reason.’ When the Advocate comes, whom I will send you from the Father--the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father--he will testify about me, and you also will testify, because you have been with me from the beginning."
In these verses our Lord Jesus Christ handles three subjects of great importance. They are difficult subjects, no doubt, subjects on which we may easily fall into error. But the words before us throw much light upon them.
We should observe, for one thing, how our Lord speaks of the misuse of religious privileges. It intensifies man\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Consequence of Rejecting Christ
- Sin becomes inexcusable after hearing Christ's words
- Hatred of Christ equates to hatred of the Father
- Miraculous deeds increase accountability
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II. The Fulfillment of Scripture
- Jesus' rejection fulfills Old Testament prophecy
- They hated Christ without reason
- God’s word is sovereignly accomplished
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III. The Role of the Holy Spirit
- The Advocate is sent from the Father
- The Spirit of truth testifies about Jesus
- Believers are called to testify alongside the Spirit
Key Quotes
“If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. But they no longer have any excuse for their sin.” — J.C. Ryle
“The one who hates me hates my Father too.” — J.C. Ryle
“When the Advocate comes, whom I will send you from the Father--the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father--he will testify about me, and you also will testify, because you have been with me from the beginning.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Recognize the seriousness of rejecting Christ’s message and repent accordingly.
- Rely on the Holy Spirit to empower your witness for Christ in difficult circumstances.
- Understand that opposition and hatred for Christ are foretold and should not discourage believers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Jesus mean by 'they hated me without reason'?
Jesus refers to the fulfillment of prophecy that the Messiah would be unjustly hated by many despite his innocence.
Who is the Advocate mentioned in the passage?
The Advocate is the Holy Spirit, sent by the Father to testify about Jesus and empower believers.
Why are people guilty of sin after Jesus speaks to them?
Because they have heard the truth and witnessed miracles, they have no excuse for rejecting Christ and thus bear guilt.
How should believers respond to opposition as described in this passage?
Believers should testify faithfully about Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, even in the face of hatred.