We Want God Here -We Want The Holy Spirit To Do These 3 Things. John 16v4-15 // May 11th, 2025
Teaching overview
In the third part of this series; “We Want God Here”, Riley delivered a sermon at Mount Lake Church focusing on John 16:4-15. He challenged the congregation to deeply desire God's presence amidst societal challenges, emphasizing the transformative role of the Holy Spirit in convicting, disrupting comfort, and revealing God's righteousness. He invited all to join in the historical cry for God's presence and to embrace repentance and transformation, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from seeking God above all else.
Our prayer for your Community
As we head into this week, let’s posture our hearts to seek God together. Pray with me: “Holy Spirit, we welcome You—disrupt our comfort, expose what’s false, and draw us closer to the truth and presence of Jesus. Give us a deeper hunger for You, and the courage to respond to Your leading.
Group questions
What part of Sunday’s message convicted, encouraged, or surprised you? (Seek)
Take time to revisit your notes or reflect on what you heard during the teaching. Consider where God might have been drawing your attention—not just what you thought, but what God might have been saying. A helpful practice is to spend a few quiet moments in Lectio Divina—slowly reading the passage of Scripture again, listening for a word or phrase that stands out, meditating on it, and letting it speak to your heart. Before speaking your own thoughts, let the Word speak first and ask that God's presence would join you.
What perspective do I need to change or adjust to come under the authority of scripture? What action does the text call me to do in light of this perspective? (Practice)
Hearing the word is just the beginning—following Jesus means living in obedience to it. The Spirit often prompts us toward simple obedience, repentance, or renewed action. This is not about being perfect, but about being faithful. What small step could you take this week to practice what was preached?
How can we as a group support you in living out what we’ve discussed this week? (Mission)
Discipleship is not only about inward formation but also outward compassion, and we want to walk that journey together as a community. As we pray for one another and seek Jesus together, our hearts are shaped toward His mission to renew all things. Our group isn’t just for us, but a place where we practice loving each other and live out the Kingdom of God.
For further meditation through the rest of your week…
James 4:8 – “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” Spend time asking: Do I truly desire God's presence in my daily life, or am I more comfortable managing things on my own? Invite God to stir a deeper longing in you, and ask Him to show you what drawing near looks like today.
John 16:8 – “When he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” Ask: Where is the Spirit inviting me to change, even if it’s uncomfortable? Take time to listen for what God might be calling you to surrender or rethink—trusting that His conviction leads to transformation, not shame.
Scripture: Psalm 16:11 – “In your presence there is fullness of joy.” Reflect: All through Scripture, God’s people have cried out for His presence—will I add my voice to theirs? Set aside a few quiet minutes to pray simply and sincerely: “God, I want You here.” Let that be your starting point each day.
