John 16:16-33 Our High Priest And Our Advocate

The disciples were sorrowful and confused and afraid while listening to Jesus talk about what was coming.  They were real men with real problems, just like us.

What Jesus wanted them to understand, my commentary says, is that "God brings joy to our lives, not by substitution, but by transformation."  God does not substitute something else to relieve our pain.  Instead He uses what is there already and transforms it, it explained.  A parent buying a new toy every time their child breaks an old toy is practicing substitution.  

"God takes seemingly impossible situations, adds the miracle of His grace, and transforms trial into triumph and sorrow into joy."

As an example, it mentioned Joseph, sold as a slave by his brothers, and how God transformed his situation to save them all.  "While we are waiting, we must deal with out trials and hurts on the basis of transformation (what are You bringing out of this, Father?), and not substitution (get me out of this, Father) if we expect to mature in the Christian life."

Here is also where we read, "Ask, and you shall receive."  Jesus was creating "a new situation in their praying."  He would be returning to be with His Father, and He would minister as our High Priest, making intercession for us.  He would also minister as our Advocate.  "As our High Priest, Jesus gives us grace to keep us from sinning.  As our Advocate, He restores us when we confess our sins."

Father, help me to watch for Your transformations in my life.  Remind me that You are also my Advocate and that You will restore me when I confess my sins.

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford