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March 31| John 16:1-14

DAILY READING

John 16:1-14


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REFLECTION


Persecution And Promise

by Judy Webb


Persecution

"They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me." (John 16:2-3)


Jesus continues to prepare his followers for the next season in their ministry – without him. He is sharing about the persecution that will be certain to arise. If they persecuted Jesus, they would do the same to His followers. Jesus wasn’t instilling fear into his followers, but wisdom and a sense of preparation. There would be no place for naivety on the road ahead of them. Paul (Saul) is a good example of the persecution yet to come (see Acts 26 and Galatians 1).


Note: Historically most Christian martyrs were targets of those from other religions or even sects within Christendom, whereas 20th century martyrs were victims of the atheistic, communistic state.


Comforting Promise


"I did not tell you this from the beginning because I was with you, but now I am going to him who sent me. But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you." (John 16:5b, 7)


Jesus is putting some icing on the cake by sharing about the gift of the Holy Spirit that He will send to these people when He (Jesus) is gone. It is telling them that he needs to leave so that this can take place. These faithful followers will soon learn the value of The Holy Spirit in their lives. This Holy Spirit will be a counselor, and advocate to help and be with them forever, and teacher. (John 14:16, 26)