Faith without religion.
Love and the Holy Spirit in John 14
In a recent teaching, the focus was on the profound connection between love and the Holy Spirit as depicted in John 14. The discussion began with Jesus’ promise to His disciples that they would receive the Holy Spirit, a Comforter who would guide and teach them after His departure. This promise was intertwined with a commandment to love one another, a theme that Jesus emphasized repeatedly.
Jesus illustrated that love is the true mark of His disciples, stating, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” This commandment to love is not just a directive but a reflection of the presence of the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit is present, love abounds; when love is absent, the Spirit’s influence is diminished.
The teaching also explored the question posed by Judas (not Iscariot) about how Jesus would manifest Himself to the disciples and not to the world. Jesus explained that this manifestation would occur through love and obedience to His word, leading to a divine indwelling where the Father and the Son make their home with the believer.
The session concluded with Jesus’ assurance of peace, a peace unlike that of the world, rooted in His victory over sin and death. This peace is a gift that transcends worldly troubles and anxieties, offering believers a taste of heavenly tranquility.
In essence, the teaching highlighted that the essence of Christian life is rooted in love—love for Jesus and love for others—fostered by the Holy Spirit’s presence. This love is the foundation of a believer’s relationship with God, bringing peace and a sense of divine presence in their lives.
