Does talk about the Holy Spirit sometimes sound like a preschooler describing an imaginary friend nobody else can see? This message takes us to the Last Supper, where Jesus promises his disciples another Helper, the Spirit of truth, who is meant to be not God beside us but God within us (John 14). The sermon shows that the Spirit is not an impersonal force but a person who teaches, reminds, and finally fits the scattered puzzle pieces of what we know about Jesus into one picture. Listen, and see what it means to be like Jesus right where you live.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In John 14:16-17 Jesus promises His disciples "another Helper" who is with them and will be in them. What does this passage tell us about who the Holy Spirit is, and how is God "in us" different from God "beside us"?
- Jesus speaks these words at the Passover meal, just hours before His arrest. How might the disciples sitting at the table with Him have received the news of His departure and the promise, "I will not leave you as orphans"?
- The sermon pointed out that the promise "whatever you ask in my name" is often taken out of context. How does the context of mission and becoming like Jesus change the way you understand this promise and your own prayers?
- The speaker said many people carry a loneliness and emptiness inside that they cannot even name. How does the truth that the Holy Spirit lives in you shape the way you experience moments of loneliness?
- The disciples had all the "puzzle pieces" about Jesus, but only the Holy Spirit put them together into one picture. Which parts of your picture of Jesus still do not fit, and how can you ask the Spirit for understanding?
- Ida's story shows how the Holy Spirit stirred a heart to concrete action. What would Jesus do if He lived in your neighborhood, and what one step in that direction do you want to take this week?
