It Is Best for You That I Go Away

In one paragraph

Monday night's study moved through John 16:1-15, where Jesus prepares his disciples for the road ahead by explaining the role of the Holy Spirit. The pastor walked through what Jesus promised the Spirit would do, and the group spent time talking about what that means for the church today. Jesus closes out John 15 by telling his disciples that following him does not guarantee the world will love...

Read together

1. John 3:16 quoted in full as a reminder that the gospel message should never grow old
2. Psalm 34 referenced as the source of 'taste and see that the Lord is good'
3. John 13 referenced for Jesus showing the full extent of his love for his disciples
4. John 15 summarized for Jesus telling disciples he chose them, to remain in him and love one another
5. John 16:1-15 the main text read and discussed throughout the sermon
6. John 14 referenced for the Holy Spirit teaching and reminding disciples of everything Jesus said
7. Acts 2:32-38 Peter's sermon quoted to illustrate the Holy Spirit convicting and convincing hearts
8. Acts 16 referenced for forty people plotting against Paul while he awaited trial in jail
9. Romans 8 referenced briefly for 'if God is for us, who can be against us'
10. Romans 15 closing benediction about God filling believers with joy and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit

Talk about it

1. Jesus told his disciples that the things he shared with them were so they would not abandon their faith. Which of the promises listed from chapters 13 through 16 means the most to you right now, and why?
2. The sermon pointed out that we cannot make anyone believe, and that convicting and convincing is the Holy Spirit's job. How does that change the way you think about sharing your faith with someone who is hostile or indifferent to it?
3. Jesus said it was actually better for the disciples that he go away, so the Holy Spirit could come. Does that feel true to you personally, or is it still hard to accept? What has the Holy Spirit done in your life that helps you understand what Jesus meant?
4. Peter's words in Acts 2 are described as piercing people to the heart, and the sermon connects that to the Holy Spirit convicting and convincing rather than just a persuasive speech. Have you ever experienced that kind of moment, either in your own coming to faith or in a conversation with someone else?
5. One person shared that knowing Jesus chose flawed people gives them courage on the days they feel like they are not good enough. How do you hold onto that truth when the road feels hard or not worth it?