A-Z: Famous stories from the Bible: Jesus speaks of the Holy Spirit

Definition

Christ taking leave of the apostles bu DuccioJesus talked to his disciples one day about his eventual return to heaven, reassuring them that they too would one day be with him in heaven. When Thomas asked him how they were to get there, Jesus told them that he himself was the way by which they would enter God’s presence. He also promised that after he’d returned to God, his followers would be sent a ‘Helper … the Spirit of truth’ (John 14:17). Jesus then told them that they would recognise this spiritual helper, who would be with them forever, though the rest of the world neither recognised nor received him. 

Jesus told his disciples that this helper, whom he also called the Holy Spirit, would teach them about heavenly things and remind them what Jesus had told them. He concluded by telling them not to worry or be fearful and that they would possess the same peace which Jesus himself exhibited and now wanted to pass on to them.

The story illustrates:

  • The expectation that Jesus’ followers will one day be with him in heaven
  • Meanwhile, Jesus’ followers are not left on their own after his return to heaven. Christians believe that the Holy Spirit is with them to guide, empower and encourage them whilst on earth
  • Jesus implied that the Holy Spirit was part of the three-fold nature of God.

Related topics

Big ideas from the Bible: Path, way; Trinity, Holy Spirit

Bible References

John 14:1-7; John 14:15-17; John 14:26-27
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