Read John 16:8-11 + Colossians 2:13-15 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. Who did Jesus say will come? (Read John 16:5-7 for context.)
2. What would be His role when He arrived?
3. According to Colossians, how have the rulers of this world been judged?
Reflect
One of the Holy Spirit’s roles is to convict the world of sin. He exposes the sinful condition that everyone has been born into since Adam and Eve disobeyed God in Eden. This verdict might seem harsh, but it’s a necessary step in God’s redemptive plan.
If we don’t see the reality of our sin, we won’t see our need for a Savior. If we believe we’re capable of saving ourselves – whether through “enough” good deeds, “enough” positive thinking, or “enough” power in this world – then we won’t understand what Jesus died for. The truth is that there’s nothing we can do to earn our salvation or to escape the power of sin. Our only hope is Jesus.
The Good News is that He’s already won. He paid the price for your sins on the cross, and He defeated death when He rose from the grave. The Holy Spirit’s conviction isn’t something to fear – it's something to celebrate! And if you have loved ones who don’t yet know Jesus, you can pray for God to bring this same conviction to them, not to judge them but to set them free when they trust in Him.
Respond
Have you ever tried to earn something from God? What happened? How does today’s reading change or enhance your view of Jesus and your need for Him? Spend some time in prayer thanking God for His Son’s finished work on the cross.