Paraclete

Paraclete (Written by David Peterson)

After His last Passover supper, Jesus addressed His disciples with final instructions. In John 14:25–27 Jesus said:

“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Jesus points to the Holy Spirit, who would soon be sent. He calls the Spirit paraclete, a term difficult to translate fully. It carries the idea of a helper, mediator, comforter, or intercessor. The word Advocate conveys someone who pleads another’s case or promotes a cause. Jesus describes the Spirit’s main role as teacher, reminding the disciples of Jesus’ words after His death (v. 26).

The theologian R. C. Sproul said this about the Holy Spirit:

“The paraclete was the name given to the family attorney in the ancient world. If you had a difficult problem to face, you would summon the paraclete. Paraklētos means one who is called to stand alongside you. Jesus tells His disciples, ‘You will be dragged into prisons and hated and despised. But when you are delivered up to these councils, do not be worried or afraid. Because I will send the Comforter, the Paraclete, to give you strength, to stand beside you, that you may be faithful in times of crisis.’”

Sproul more than adequately captures the depth of the Spirit’s ministry.

The hymn Breathe on Me, Breath of God, written by Edwin Hatch in 1878, expresses this beautifully. Its first verse reads:

Breathe on me, Breath of God,

fill me with life anew,

that I may love what Thou dost love,

and do what Thou wouldst do.

Hatch describes the work of the Holy Spirit—the paraclete—as the One who fills, shapes, and strengthens us to walk in obedience to God.

Let us pray:

Lord Jesus, thank You for the peace You offer, regardless of any circumstance that may consume us. Holy Spirit, our Paraclete, help us stand in Christ alone, confident in His purposes, knowing we are held fast by His love. Amen.