The Gospel of John – Part 24: Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit | John 14:15–31 // October 25th, 2026
Teaching overview
In John 14:15-31, Jesus comforts His anxious disciples by promising they won’t be left as orphans, and Riley Taylor shows how this promise means we are never alone. Believers have the Father’s love, the Spirit’s help as an Advocate, and the risen Son’s life, which begins now through knowing God. Riley invites listeners to stop going it alone and to receive this love, help, and life today, just as the father welcomes the prodigal son home.
Our prayer for the Community
Father, thank you that we are never alone: we have Your love, the Spirit’s help, and new life in Jesus. This week, help us to rest in Your love as our Father, to lean on Your Spirit each day, and to live in the life of the risen Son. Amen.
Group questions and further meditations:
Love in the Father
Meditation:
Jesus says, “I will not leave you as orphans.” Even if earthly fathers fail or leave, God remains the Father who never does. Sit with the thought that you are known, wanted, and loved by Him, not because of what you do, but because you belong to Him.
Discussion Questions:When you hear God described as “Father,” what comes to mind? Does it feel comforting, distant, or complicated?
Where in your life do you feel most alone or unseen right now?
What would change this week if you truly believed the Father’s love is secure?
Help in the Spirit
Meditation:
The Spirit is our Advocate, “one called alongside” us, who teaches, reminds, and helps. We were never meant to live the Christian life by willpower alone. Consider the areas where you’ve been trying to carry the load yourself.
Discussion Questions:
In which area (work, parenting, grief, relationships) are you most tempted to “go it alone”?
What would it look like to ask the Spirit for help in that area each day this week?
Has there been a time when you sensed the Spirit guiding, reminding, or comforting you? What happened?
Life in the Son
Meditation:
“Because I live, you also will live.” Eternal life isn’t only about the future. It begins now, as we know God and Jesus personally. Reflect on the difference between knowing about God and actually knowing Him, and on the joy that comes from that relationship, even in seasons of loss.Discussion Questions:
How would you describe the difference between knowing about God and knowing Him?
Where have you experienced joy even in the midst of difficulty?
What is one practical way you can spend time with Jesus this week (reading, prayer, silence, serving)?
