But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart. Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
John 16:6-7
The word “expedient” means better. Jesus told His disciples that He was leaving. This upset them as it probably would have upset us. He then told them that it was actually better for them to have Him leave. How could this be?
Jesus had traveled with His disciples for at least three years. They had attended every meeting and seen every miracle. We cannot begin to imagine their reaction when He announced that He was leaving. This announcement include the statement that He would send them another Comforter and having Him would be better.
I have heard people talk about how amazing it would have been to live when Jesus walked the earth. Jesus told His disciples that what we have not is better than what the disciples had.
So what could be better than walking with Jesus Himself? The answer lies in two words from Jesus’ statement – “another Comforter”.
Jesus was the disciples Comforter. He did leave but not without sending someone to take His place as our Comforter. This person is the Holy Spirit.
It is better today because the Holy Spirit is not just with us as Jesus was with the disciples. The Spirit has taken up residence in the spirit of every born again believer.
The word translated “Comforter” is “parakletos”. It was often used to describe a person called to help in a court of law. This person would be present to help, aid, or serve as an assistant.
However, I am telling you nothing but the truth when I say it is profitable (good, expedient, advantageous) for you that I go away. Because if I do not go away, the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you [into close fellowship with you]; but if I go away, I will send Him to you [to be in close fellowship with you].
John 16:7 (AMPC)
The Amplified provides six descriptive names to describe a Comforter:
- Counselor
- Helper
- Advocate
- Intercessor
- Strengthener
- Standby
If we had to pick just one Word to describe the Holy Spirit’s ministry it would be “Helper”. He is always standing by to help us if we will learn to look to Him. The key to our learning to do this is found in the word “fellowship” which is seen in the Amplified version.
“…but if I go away, I will send Him to you [to be in close fellowship with you].“
Paul ended his second letter to the Corinthian church with an exhortation to fellowship with the Holy Spirit.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.
2 Corinthians 13:14
The word translated “communion” could more accurately be translated “fellowship”. We can develop a close intimate relationship with Him. This will require us to first recognize His presence in our lives.
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