In John 16, Jesus was preparing his disciples for the horrible events of the crucifixion. The disciples were filled with sorrow (v 6) because of what Jesus was telling them. They really believed he was the promised Messiah who would deliver Israel, and bring a new order to their lives. How could he be the Messiah, the God-Man, if he was to be murdered? With comforting words, Jesus told them that they would not be left orphans but that the Holy Spirit of God would come to be with them. This wonderful third person of the trinity would comfort, guide, and teach.
The Holy Spirit is the great teacher. He is the One who shows our spirits what is of God and what is not. His knowledge is perfect, his love and care for the people of God is perfect because he seeks to glorify Jesus (v 14).
Most of us have been in school institutions, all human beings are in “the school of life”, but believers have the unique honour of being in the School of The Spirit. Only one person has complete and perfect knowledge and that is God. In fact, he is “a God of Knowledges” according to the original Hebrew of 1 Samuel 2:3. This fact alone gives us confidence in what the Holy Spirit of God will tell us. He is a trustworthy teacher.
He has no agenda but complete truth. Sometimes the truth of what he teaches us is about our need for forgiveness. We call this conviction. At other times, he teaches us what direction to take in life. Yet, the greatest thing that he teaches us is who Jesus is! (v 14). Any time we have a revelation of the character of Jesus, it is a work of the great teacher, the Holy Spirit. Jesus becomes alive in us as we listen intently to the Holy Spirit. In fact, to practise the presence of Jesus, the Holy Spirit will cause us to sense his presence with us. The apostle Paul said that Christians should not walk in “darkened understanding” because they did not learn Christ that way (Eph 4:17-20). The Great Teacher reveals the greatness of Jesus. We are no longer unsure about who Jesus is. The Holy Spirit makes sure of that.
As we enjoy the wonderful life that God has richly given us, let’s humbly learn what (and who) the Holy Spirit will show us. He is the Great Teacher! We appreciate your Comments