[:en]Before Jesus left this world, He warned His disciples about the upcoming persecutions they will be facing. He mentioned about anyone who kills them will think that he was offering a service to God. (v. 2) Among them was Saul, under the authority of the high priest who personally saw and approved Stephen being stoned to death (Acts 8:1)
The Work of the Holy Spirit (vs. 5-16)
Jesus told His disciples that while He will be going, He is sending the Counselor who will come to the world to convict sin, to uphold righteousness and administer judgment. The Spirit of truth will guide them into all truth. He will tell them what is yet to come.
The Disciples Grief will turn to Joy (vs. 17-33)
“In a little while, you will see me no more, and then after a little while, you will see me” (v. 16-18) refers to His death and resurrection.
Jesus told the disciples that they will weep and mourn while the world will rejoice. But just as how a woman has pain in giving birth to a child, she forgot the anguish when she saw a child is born into the world. No wonder Christians are like misfits to the world because their values differ with the world’s value. Before, people approached God through priest, but after His resurrection, He has made all believers acceptable to God so that all believers can approach God directly and personally through Jesus Christ.
Jesus foretold that when the time came for His arrest, the disciples will be scattered. But He assured them that they won’t be alone. He will give them peace to counter the trouble in this world. He will give them the courage to withstand the tribulations.
Are you facing struggles in life? Take courage, for Jesus has overcome the world. He has won the ultimate victory. Have a close relationship with the Lord and claim the peace of Christ in your most unbearable moments of your life.
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