One of the scariest moments for a new Bible teacher might be the first time they get before a room full of peering eyes. Feeling all alone, doubts, insecurities, and all sorts of questions arise. — Will students like me? Am I good enough? Will I make a difference? What if I don’t know what to say or do?
Even veteran teachers can get some jitters before standing in front of a room full of people. Even they can get rattled by objectors, or antagonists. The unexpected can send a jolt of anxiety through them.
Imagine how the original disciples must have felt when Jesus ascended back to heaven. Jesus had been right by their side, instructing and guiding them each step of the way. Now they were on their own, going into uncharted territory, undoubtedly facing persecution, hardship, and many unknowns.
Not Alone. We Have an Advocate!
Prior to leaving, Jesus taught the disciples what they needed to know. He reminded them of the link between obeying His commands and loving Him (Jn. 14:21-24). Then He said, “All this I have spoken while still with you” (Jn. 14:25). Yes, He would be leaving them BUT …
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. (Jn. 14:26)
God wouldn’t leave them defenseless. The Holy Spirit would be their Advocate.
- They would not be left alone. The Father would send the Holy Spirit who would not only be with them but also dwell in them (Jn. 14:17).
- They would not be expected to figure things out on their own. The Spirit would instruct them and remind them of what Jesus had said.
The word for Advocate, parakletos, literally means called to one’s side. As such, the Spirit would come to their aid. Jesus undoubtedly used this word, also translated Helper, Counselor, Comforter, and Intercessor to reassure them. And so, He continued, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (Jn. 14:27)
A Reliable Advocate
Jesus emphasized the reliability of the Holy Spirit to come alongside of them with the help they needed through two phrases He used:
1) whom the Father will send
2) in my name
The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit work in unity. The Holy Spirit would not be an entity out there on His own acting out His personal agenda. The Spirit’s authority and purpose would align with the work Jesus began. The disciples could count on the Holy Spirit to come alongside of them and help them fulfill the mission Jesus gave them to do.
Bible Teachers, Remember That You Have an Advocate
When we walk into a classroom, we aren’t alone. We aren’t defenseless. We have the presence and power of the Almighty God right there with us. Remembering God’s promise of His Spirit provides the confidence we need when we feel incompetent.
The Spirit helps us through those unexpected distractions, disturbing comments, or unanswered questions. Even if we get so flustered that we don’t know how to pray about it, the Spirit intercedes on our behalf in accordance with God’s will (Rom. 8:26-27). We don’t need to despair. God will work through these circumstances.
We too can rely on the Holy Spirit to help us accomplish His work through our teaching. In the next couple of posts we will look at two specific ways the Spirit helps us in our teaching.