1. In ch.13-17 of his Gospel the apostle John wrote about the Lord's "private ministry" [His interactions with the apostles]. 2. As we study the Lord's instructions to the apostles in these chapters, we must remember that: a. He was comforting their troubled hearts 1) Jesus informed the apostles that He was leaving them (John 13:33), and their hearts were troubled (John 14:27). 2) Jesus informed the apostles that a special Comforter would be coming to them (John 14:16-17, 26; 15:26-27). b. He was preparing them for the Great Commission. 1) They would do greater works than He did (John 14:12). 2) They would be hated (John 15:18-21). 3) Jesus wanted the apostles to remember His instructions so they would not stumble (John 16:1-4). 3. In this lesson we are examining the Lord's instructions in John 16:5-15. 4. In these verses Jesus explained in more detail why it was necessary for Him to leave. Discussion: I. (John 16:5-7) JESUS HAD TO LEAVE SO THE SPIRIT WOULD COME
A. (vs.5-6) The apostles knew that Jesus was going to the Father, but their hearts were troubled because He was leaving them. B. (vs.7) It was expedient for Jesus to leave so He could send the Comforter. 1. Years earlier, Joel made a prophecy about the coming of the Spirit (Joel 2:28-32). 2. Joel's prophecy was fulfilled shortly after Jesus spoke to the apostles as they began to carry out the Great Commission (Acts 2:1-4, 16-21).
II. (John 16:8-11) THE COMING OF THE SPIRIT WAS FOR THE WORLD'S BENEFIT
A. The Spirit would: 1. reprove the world 2. reveal God's will concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment. B. The Spirit would accomplish this through the apostles (1 Corinthians 2:10-13). III. (John 16:12-15) THE COMING OF THE SPIRIT WAS FOR THE APOSTLES' BENEFIT
A. Jesus had much more information for the apostles that they could not bear at that time. B. The Spirit would reveal this information to the apostles.
