Jesus taught his disciples about the threefold ministry of the Spirit towards the world. The promised Helper that would come at Pentecost would be Comforter to his saints, but “Convicter” to sinners. Yet, even this ministry is grace, for he moves to bring the sinner into realization of the depth of their sin, the truth of Christ’s righteousness, and the inevitability of God’s judgment. The Spirit acts in conjunction with the preaching and hearing of God’s Word to bring those far from God, near. This clarifies the role of Christ followers. We are to share the Good News and leave the convicting of sin to the Spirit. Yet, pity the one who would harden their heart to the Spirit’s conviction, for they remain in their sin with full knowledge of their condition.
“And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment” (John 16:8 ESV)
Scripture for today:
2 Samuel 12:1-31; John 16:1-33; Psalm 119:65-80; Proverbs 16:4-5