Another Counselor

Today at church we began a new sermon series, on the Holy Spirit. It's been a long time since we've had a series that wasn't topical, and with the topic being some kind of felt need or topic designed to help you with the problems of everyday life. Don't get me wrong; those are important things. But sometimes you just want to have a good old scripture and doctrine sermon.

Pastor Mark brought up a point I hadn't thought of in his sermon. It's from John 14:16

"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with your forever"

He pointed out that the word "another" meant that the apostles already had a counselor. That had to be himself Jesus was referring to. I'd never noticed that before.

In the companion Life Group lesson, we listened to a tape by Jim Cymbala. I've read one or two of his books, but had never heard him speak before. He did a great exposition on the work of the Holy Spirit, interspersed with the testimony of a man who had been delivered from drug use and sales, and had an incredible weight lifted from him.

It was a good time at church this morning. The Spirit was with us as we studied Him.