www.nwlcc.

org
The Gospel of John
Northwest London Christian Church
Series

Background to John’s Gospel – The Spirit

John’s Main Themes

The Spirit
John tells us more about the Spirit than any of the other Gospel writers. The main body of this
teaching comes in chapters 14-16, but it is sprinkled throughout the book. Perhaps you might
like to do a study on the Spirit in John’s Gospel and come up with your own idea of what he
tells us about him?
A Different Word
John uses a word to designate the Holy Spirit that is not found in the other three Gospels. It is
the Greek word “parakletos”. This can be translated - “helping one” or “advocate”. It helps us
see the way Jesus thought about the Spirit and therefore helps us understand the Spirit’s
purpose in our lives. Do you think of the Spirit as your Advocate – speaking on your behalf to
God? What about seeing him as the helping one – involved in your life to assist you in
fighting sin and growing in Christ-likeness?
The Spirit in John’s Gospel
Passage in John Designation Role
14.16ff Another Paraclete, the Spirit of truth. With you and in you
14.26 The Paraclete, the Holy Spirit Teach, bring to remembrance
15.26ff The Paraclete, the Spirit of truth Bear witness to Jesus
16.7ff The Paraclete Convict the world
16.13ff The Spirit of truth Guide into all truth; declare things to come

The Context
The teaching of Jesus about the Holy Spirit is connected with his departure from the earth.
He knows that his time here is short and so teaches his followers about the Spirit. He
emphasises the work of the Spirit as explaining his teachings – so there will be no real break
between him in the act of teaching while on this earth and the Spirit explaining the teaching
once he has returned to his father. The Spirit is not independent of Jesus but subordinates
himself and his mission to Jesus.
The Functions
The Spirit functions on at least three different levels: (1) living inside believers; (2) instructing
and leading believers; and (3) witnessing to and convicting the world of sin and
righteousness.
John wants us to know what Jesus taught about the Spirit because the Spirit gives life! Lets’
resolve to know more of this life-giving Spirit and ask him to help us, teach us and guide us
into all truth.

Malcolm Cox