Pentecost and the Advantage of the Spirit (John 16:4-15)

Why do so many Christians feel unsure—or even uncomfortable—talking about the Holy Spirit?

In this Pentecost sermon from John 16, we look at Jesus’ surprising words to His disciples: “It is to your advantage that I go away.” How could it possibly be better for Christ to ascend and the Spirit to come?

This message explores the beauty, comfort, and necessity of the Holy Spirit’s work in the life of the believer and the mission of the Church. The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force or vague spiritual energy. He is God with us—teaching, convicting, guiding, comforting, and opening blind eyes to the glory of Christ.

As Jesus prepares His sorrowful disciples for a hostile world, He promises them an Advocate who will do what they never could on their own: soften hearts, expose sin, tear down self-righteousness, and lead people to salvation in Jesus Christ.

If you’ve ever struggled to understand the Holy Spirit, feared misunderstandings about Him, or wondered how God still works through ordinary Christians today, this sermon is an invitation to rediscover the Spirit not as someone strange or distant, but as the very presence of God lovingly drawing people to Jesus.