John 14:8-21 | What's the connection?

There are many connections to be found throughout this passage, but I want to zero in on Whom Jesus says will come after Him. I want to address a larger biblical theme and then also address the role that Jesus says He will take. This is all that of the Holy Spirit.

Let us look back towards Moses and Elijah. These are the representatives of the Law and the Prophets. We see them appearing with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration alongside Jesus. It is quite the scene. It is well known that there are many instances where Jesus is compared to Moses and Elijah. He is the fulfillment of both the Law and the Prophets. there are patterns in Jesus' life that mimics the pattern of these other two. What Jesus tells us about the Holy Spirit also mimics something important about Moses and Elijah.

Moses, as the end of His time on earth approached, appointed a successor that would be better for the people in completing the work. The was Joshua. Elijah also had to appoint a successor, Elisha. And Elisha requested for the a double portion of Elijah's spirit to be with him. Very interesting. As we get into Jesus talking about the Holy Spirit being given, it is extremely reminiscent of the language of Moses and Elijah appointing a successor. The Holy Spirit is the successor to Jesus in the work of the ministry here on earth. And just as it was better for the people to have Joshua over Moses, Elisha over Elijah, Jesus tells His disciples that it is better for Him to send His Holy Spirit.

Concerning the role that the Holy Spirit plays, the biblical language is also very reminiscent of legal roles. It is well known among Jewish scholars that there was a spirit of truth and a spirit of error. They also understood that there was an accusing spirit and an advocating spirit. What Jesus explains to His audience here is that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth and that advocating Spirit. The language that we use to describe the Holy Spirit as comforter or helper does not quite accomplish what the Greek would be saying. The role is known in antiquity as a legal advocate or intercessor. While the enemy accuses us, the Holy Spirit within us advocates for us.

This and so much more stands out as connections to be had. To the broader context, Jesus is preparing His disciples for His departure and ensures them that they will be taken care of. This should rest our hearts as well knowing that we are in the era of the Spirit of God at work in His people.

What connections are you making?