John 16:1-7

Not Alone

Daily S.O.A.P. Prompts

S – What verse stands out to me today?

O – What is God revealing about Jesus?

A – How should this change my life today?

P – What is my prayer in response?

Scripture

(John 16:1-7, NLT) “I have told you these things so that you won’t abandon your faith. 2 For you will be expelled from the synagogues, and the time is coming when those who kill you will think they are doing a holy service for God. 3 This is because they have never known the Father or me. 4 Yes, I’m telling you these things now, so that when they happen, you will remember my warning. I didn’t tell you earlier because I was going to be with you for a while longer. 5 “But now I am going away to the one who sent me, and not one of you is asking where I am going. 6 Instead, you grieve because of what I’ve told you. 7 But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you.

Observation

• There is a repetition of phrases in these few verses that center on Jesus “telling us” or having “told us” things to prepare us for what is coming. He is preparing his disciples so that they won’t “abandon” their faith.

• Jesus says the coming difficulty will consist of the disciples being expelled from the synagogues and martyred.

• This persecution will come at the hands of religious people because they believe they are doing the work of God.

• Jesus wants his disciples to “remember” all of the things he has said to them so that they will stay faithful, receive the Advocate, and finish the work that Jesus started on earth.

• Jesus is going away. His leaving ushers in the Advocate.

Application

• Jesus prepares us for the battles ahead.

• We have the Holy Spirit to help us in our daily lives because Jesus went to be with the Father.

• We must not abandon our faith when things get hard.

• It is okay to grieve, but it is not okay to abandon our faith when things are hard.

Prayer

Dear Lord, you are mighty and strong. Stronger than any person or problem I have. I am grateful that you went to be with the Father so the Advocate could come to me. You cared enough about me to send your Holy Spirit to strengthen me and prepare me for the battles of life. Thank you! I receive this gift again today. Holy Spirit, lead me and guide me in all aspects of my life today. May I glorify you in everything and may I never abandon my faith. In Jesus' name, amen!

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