This lesson discusses the “Spirit of Truth” or “Counselor” that Jesus promised to send after his departure. At his first coming, Jesus was the Counselor who spoke on God’s behalf, along with John the Baptist coming in the spirit of Elijah. Jesus promised to send another Counselor – the Spirit of Truth – whose role is to guide into all truth, speak what he hears from Jesus, teach about future things concerning Jesus, and make known Jesus’ revelation. The Spirit of Truth is identified as the mighty angel in Revelation sent by Jesus with the little scroll containing the once-sealed revelation, which he gave to John to write down. So the Spirit of Truth prophesies and testifies to the words of Jesus’ revelation that was once sealed but now opened, fulfilling Jesus’ promise that he would no longer speak figuratively but tell plainly about the Father. The main idea is that the Spirit of Truth is the angelic messenger sent to reveal Jesus’ full revelation and prophecies yet to be fulfilled after his first coming.
Shincheonji holds distinct theological views that differ from mainstream Christian denominations, yet it also shares some common teachings. This overlap can sometimes blur the lines between their beliefs and those of traditional Christianity. Therefore, it is essential to exercise critical thinking and discernment to differentiate between these shared elements and the unique doctrines they present.
While their interpretations warrant careful examination through a critical and biblical lens, it is equally important to approach these matters with an open yet discerning mindset.
The following notes were documented in person during Shincheonji’s 9-month Bible Study Seminar. They provide insight into the organization’s approach to introducing and explaining its beliefs to potential new members, often referred to as the ‘harvesting and sealing.’ This process is described as being ‘born again’ or ‘born of God’s seed,’ which involves uprooting the old beliefs and replanting new ones. This uprooting and replanting must occur continuously. By examining this process, we can gain a better understanding of the mindset and beliefs held by Shincheonji members.
We’re going to discuss something profound and intricate. I want everyone to concentrate more on listening attentively. Sometimes, we have a tendency to try and take notes simultaneously, which can make it challenging to listen effectively. With this lesson, more than others, I encourage you to prioritize listening over note-taking. We will make all the notes available for you to refer to if you need to revisit any points you may have missed. However, it’s crucial to focus on comprehending the main points being conveyed to avoid any misunderstandings.
The Spirit of Truth, The Counselor
Jn 16
Our main reference chapter for today is John chapter 16. And this is part two of what we were discussing in the previous lesson.
Remember, John chapters 13, 14, 15, and 16 are all part of the same event and conversation that Jesus had with his disciples. Jesus washed his disciples’ feet and then began to speak to them. He began to preach to them, washing their hearts as well, and giving them many beautiful promises that they can hold on to and wait patiently for.
So, the spirit of truth, the counselor, is going to be our main focus for today, in John chapter 16.
Our hope is to find and listen to the counselor in spirit and flesh at the second coming.
There is an important point that I want to make here to help this make a little bit more sense for later. At the second coming, there are two counselors. And we’ll explain that today.
1.- Understanding The Spirits of God
Let’s delve into today’s topic. We’re going to first explore understanding the spirits of God. This is going to be crucial for us. To comprehend the spirit of truth, we need to first grasp the spirits of God. Recall the beginning of the class when we drew that massive cloud.
Remember that? We split the cloud into two. On one side, you had God, and the four stars around him represented the four living creatures. On the other side, we had Satan and the demons. Satan, who used to be one of God’s stars, one of the four living creatures or the guardian cherub, had his own thoughts and ideas about wanting to become God.
So he convinced other angels around him to betray God with him, and they were cast out of heaven. Now, the spiritual world that was once unified, holy, and true is divided into two, where there is holiness and evil. There is now truth and lies. A discernment must take place. Before evil existed, there was no need to declare holiness.
It’s akin to when Paul discussed the relationship between the law and sin, a profound concept but essential to understand. He said that before the law, there couldn’t have been sin because the law makes sin known. Before evil existed, there was no need to say, “I am holy.”
It was only after evil’s existence that clarification became necessary: “I am true. I am holy,” because the opposite now exists.
GOD
One thing to understand about God is that, of course, he is holy. So what does John 4:24 say about God?
God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.”
John 4:24
God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship him in spirit and in truth.
So God is a spirit. But what else is God?
“Speak to the entire assembly of Israel and say to them: ‘Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.
Leviticus 19:2
Be holy because I, your God, is holy.
So God is a spirit. And God is holy. So God is a holy spirit. Let’s continue exploring this further.
JESUS
I want us to examine some intriguing aspects about Jesus.
12 I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was someone “like a son of man,” dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest.
Revelation 1:12-13
This is the testimony of John and how he encountered Jesus. However, at that time, he could not really recognize it as Jesus because the entity or person that appeared to him was so brilliant.
He said it was someone like the son of man, holding seven stars in his right hand and walking among seven golden lampstands. Then we see the writing of the letters in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. Let’s see who is speaking here.
In your Bibles, if you have a red letter Bible, what color are the letters in Revelation 2 and 3?
Red. Whose voice are these letters? Jesus’ voice.
In Revelation 2:1, it says, “To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, these are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands,” as John saw in the previous chapter. But then how does the verse end?
In Revelation 2:7, it says, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the spirit is saying to the churches.” Who is speaking? Jesus.
Who is called the spirit? So now Jesus is the spirit.
Well, what about Mark 1:21?
“What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”
Mark 1:21
Jesus is now a spirit, and Jesus is the Holy One. So he too is a Holy Spirit.
Regarding angels – there are many angels, and they do many amazing things. There are numerous angels, and they are awesome.
7 In speaking of the angels he says, “He makes his angels winds, his servants flames of fire.” 14 Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?
Hebrews 1:7,14
So the angels are spirits. But what else are the angels?
If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
Mark 8:38
So what else are the angels, everyone? Holy spirits.
Interesting. To summarize all of this. All spirits of God are holy spirits. All of them.
And any of them can be sent to do the work of a holy spirit, because they all do one will. Whose will? The will of the Father. They’re all holy spirits.
So keep that in mind.
2.- The Advocate (Counselor) at the First Coming
Let’s now discuss an important topic for today – the counselor.
To understand the counselor that Jesus promised, we need to comprehend the original counselor or advocate that was sent.
ONE – The Counselor’s Role
First, let’s define what a counselor or an advocate is.
The primary job of a counselor is twofold: to teach and protect.
Consider your guidance counselors in school, for example. Their role is to assess your current position as a student and recommend the best course of action on behalf of the school to help you reach your academic goals. Alternatively, a guidance counselor may assess the physical and mental health of students and recommend the best treatment if needed.
A spiritual counselor performs a similar task – assessing the spiritual condition of the person they are speaking to and recommending the best spiritual treatment. They protect that person as it is their job to speak on their behalf.
Therefore, the complete definition of a counselor is a teacher who protects and teaches with grace, extending much grace to those for whom they are responsible.
A counselor must speak on behalf of others. A guidance counselor will speak on behalf of the student to the school and on behalf of the school to the student. They act as a mediator in both directions, similar to a lawyer ensuring that both parties understand all the terms of an agreement before signing a contract.
It’s a comparable role to someone we love.
Reminder:
The Counsellor’s will:
1.- Teach
2.- Protect
TWO – Who is the counselor in the First Coming?
My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.
1 John 2:1
Oh, interesting. So, everyone, who was the counselor at the first coming? Jesus.
Jesus was the counselor at the first coming, which means His job was to be our messenger, our mediator, our counselor, and He is the advocate, the one who spoke on our behalf, the one who stood between us and the wrath of God, which we very much deserve, who speaks for us. Let’s understand this a little bit more by seeing some additional verses to really put this together.
As all things begin, they begin with God. And God has a will or hope in mind that He wants to restore what was lost and to commune with what was lost again. So, God is actually in the position of a sender.
Ever since the time of Adam and Noah, God has sent one to speak on His behalf to the people.
Let me actually show you an example of this so that we can really see how it was done in the past and how it is done in the same logic afterwards.
14 Then the Lord’s anger burned against Moses and he said, “What about your brother, Aaron the Levite? I know he can speak well. He is already on his way to meet you, and his heart will be glad when he sees you. 15 You shall speak to him and put words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do. 16 He will speak to the people for you, and it will be as if he were your mouth and as if you were God to him. 17 But take this staff in your hand so you can perform miraculous signs with it.”
Exodus 4:14-17
As God appointed Moses, Moses, who had a speech impediment, was apprehensive. He said, “I’ve been slow of tongue and speech. I’m not the person for the job.”
And, of course, God responded, “You are, because I picked you. But because I know you need help, I’m sending your brother Aaron to you, and he will be glad when he sees you. And I am going to put words in your mouth, and you are to give these words to Aaron so that he will speak on behalf of you to the people.”
“But the words that he speaks will not be Aaron’s words, and they also won’t be your words either, Moses. They will be my words. And you will be as if you were God to him.”
“Not that you are God, but like you are God, because the logic is the same. The words are the same. They come from the same source, like that.”
So, at the time of the first coming, whose job was it to speak the words of God to the people? Jesus.
And Jesus affirmed this many times when he said, like in John 17:8, “For I gave them the words you gave to me.” “For I gave them the words that you gave to me. And they accepted those words and believed that you had sent me.” So, the logic is the same, and it is consistent from beginning to end.
It’s the same. The logic is the same. So, God always sends someone who will then speak the words of God on his behalf.
Jesus said in John 14:24, “The words I speak are not my own. They belong to the father who sent me.” So, Jesus spoke on behalf of God.
To whom? Who needed to hear God’s words?
The people of Israel. The ones that listened to those words initially were the twelve disciples. So, as Jesus was speaking on God’s behalf, the twelve disciples were listening.
But guess what? The twelve disciples did not keep these words to themselves by God’s grace. They also spread the gospel to many people.
So, really, these words are also for us as well. So, when we’re hearing these words from God spoken through Jesus, what are we supposed to do with those words? Accept. That’s our job.
We accept the words that are spoken by the advocate, by the counselor, understanding and believing that those words truly came from God. Because if you don’t believe the messenger, it ultimately means you don’t believe the one who sent the messenger either, even if you proclaim with your mouth that you do.
I tell you the truth, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me.”
John 13:20
Anyone who accepts me, accepts the one who sent me.
And anyone who accepts me, accepts the one who sent me. If you accept the one I sent, Jesus is speaking, then you accept Jesus. And if you accept Jesus, you accept the Father who sent him.
However, Jesus says the opposite is also true. In John chapter 15:23, he said, “Anyone who hates me, hates the Father too.” You cannot deny Jesus and still accept God.
It does not work like that. It is not the logic that God established, because Jesus was sent by God.
And Jesus promised that he would send someone who will speak on his behalf. That is the position of those who rejected Jesus, yet still felt like they were justified before God. No, first, you have to accept the one sent.
You cannot skip this process and go directly to God. It does not work like that. You have to go through the one who was sent.
That is why Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” Except through me.
So when we come to Jesus, it is like coming to God. And what does God, or what does Jesus do for those who come to him? He has a job to do concerning us, does he not?
14 Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— 15 and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. 16 For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants. 17 For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. 18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
Hebrews 2:14-18
Glory to God. Jesus, who took our form so that he knows what it’s like to be us, and it’s hard to be us, did so. He did this so that he, as our high priest, can petition on our behalf to God.
Jesus’ job is to petition on our behalf to God, saying, “God, forgive them. I know what it’s like to be like them. It’s hard. They’re trying their best.” And his blood atones for our sin.
So Jesus was our first advocate, our first counselor. He can help those who are being tempted because he too was tempted, though he never sinned. Glory to God.
Very cool. But Jesus also promised a few things.
The way the advocate works is that the advocate does not speak their own words but speaks the words of the one who sent them. Of course, we just talked about the case between God and Jesus.
Both the sender and the advocate are one. Two as one. They’re of the same will, the same promise, and the same accord. They are one. The sender and the advocate.
If you think about wartime, there was always a person whose job was to relay a message to the enemy side. And that person was supposed to, in normal circumstances, receive special protections. Oh, that’s an envoy.
You cannot kill that person. They have a message for us. In fact, killing the messenger was a declaration of war or a declaration of acceleration of battle because that person is supposed to receive special treatment, as they’re not here to kill but to deliver a message.
Jesus: Came in God’s Name
There was also someone else who came in a very similar way, representing the relationship between God and Jesus.
I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him.
John 5:43
So whose name did Jesus come in? In God’s name.
He came in God’s name. He then goes on to explain, “If I came in my own name, you would accept me. But because I say I come in the name of God, you reject me.” A very frustrating experience, for sure, for Jesus and all the others who were sent by God too, and people often did not believe them. But there was another who came in a very similar way, which is also very sad if we understand how it ended up.
John the Baptist: Spirit and Power of Elijah | Mt 11:14, Mt 17:10-13
And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
Luke 1:17
So again, who is this about? John the Baptist.
And he was supposed to come in the spirit and power of Elijah. Ah, yes.
If John the Baptist came in the spirit and power of Elijah, then it was as if Elijah’s spirit was working through him. This is the reason why John the Baptist was able to speak a word different from anyone else around him. Why he too was able to speak in a little bit of the parables, like we see in Matthew chapter 3, where he said, “You brood of vipers,” just like Jesus did.
“I can only baptize with water. But there is one who is coming after me who will baptize you in the spirit and fire. And he will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat.”
He was speaking parables. Amazing. Because the spirit of Elijah was working through him.
So, the goal is to understand the relationship between the sender and the advocate. That relationship is very special and has continued even into our time.
Let us also consider the other verses mentioned here. Jesus confirmed what the angel Gabriel said to Zachariah, the father of John the Baptist. Keep these things in mind.
Jesus confirmed that John was, in fact, the Elijah that was promised in Malachi chapter 4. In Malachi 4, there is the prophecy that Elijah will come and set the people straight. And that was fulfilled through John the Baptist.
3.- The Spirit of Truth, The Counselor
How can we understand an advocate or counselor that is relevant for our current era? Let’s analyze the concept of ‘the spirit of truth.
THREE – Another Acounselor
16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.
John 14:16-17
Ah, interesting. Let’s break down what Jesus said.
He said, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate.” That’s right, another.
Why another?
Another counselor because Jesus was the first counselor, and he was leaving.
So Jesus promised to send another counselor. And what did Jesus say about this counselor? He said, “He will give you another counselor to be with you forever.”
“The spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you will know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.”
So, a few key things to note about this other counselor:
Number one, John 14:16, that he will be another counselor. Why? Because Jesus was the first counselor, and Jesus is now in heaven, building the holy city, New Jerusalem. That’s what he’s up to. But he promised to send another.
Number two, John 14:17, what’s really important here is that the spirit of truth will dwell in and speak through a person. “For he will be in you, and you will know him,” though the world will not accept him.
Now, some key phrases that Jesus mentioned often as he was speaking this to his disciples are the words “will.” Jesus said this many times as he was speaking in these verses.
So, keep that in mind. It is very important.
FOUR – Sent by Jesus
The counselor that will be sent by Jesus – what will this counselor do? What is the logic behind this counselor being sent by Jesus?
But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
John 14:26
So, what did Jesus say in verse 26? “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name.”
Now, He is referred to by three names: the Spirit of truth, the Holy Spirit, and the Counselor. Remember, all spirits that belong to God are holy. Verse 26 states, “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name.”
The logic is that God sent Jesus in God’s name, and Jesus is sending the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ name. The Spirit of truth, the Counselor.
And what will that Spirit do? “He will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you.”
Keep this in mind too: The Spirit will teach and remind of all things that Jesus spoke.
Quite an important detail. Let’s continue about the promised Counselor, the Spirit.
Because Jesus said some more things about this Counselor that is promised.
FIVE – Role and Duty
12 “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will take from what is mine and make it known to you. 16 “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.”
John 16:12-16
There are so many amazing things to discuss here. Let’s talk about it.
Jesus has much more to say, more than can be comprehended at the moment. He has been speaking to them for several chapters in the Gospel of John.
Specifically, Jesus has been speaking to them for four chapters: 13, 14, 15, and now 16. He has been speaking for a considerable time.
Jesus is saying, “I have much more to share, but you cannot handle it all right now. However, the spirit of truth will guide you into all truth.”
And he (the spirit of truth) will not speak on his own. He will only speak what he hears.
And he will take from what is Jesus’ and make it known to us. Let’s break this down. The role and duty of the counselor (the spirit of truth) is:
As it says in verse 15, this spirit will take from what is Jesus’ and make it known to us.
And all things that belong to the Father belong to Jesus too. Keep that in mind.
The role of the counselor is:
- He will lead into all truth.
- He will not speak on his own but will speak only what is heard.
- He will teach about future things, things that are yet to come.
I hope you’re picking up on who this spirit is. I’m leaving lots of hints.
We’ll see if we’re picking up on it. This spirit will also prophesy about many things, prophesying the words of Jesus.
So, the spirit of truth has many duties: prophesying the words of Jesus, leading into all truth, speaking only what is heard, and teaching about future events. A very important job.
Reminder:
Role of the Counselor:
- Leading into all truth
- Speaks what’s heard
- Teach future things of Jesus
– Prophesying the words of Jesus
Now that I understand this a little bit better, be thinking about which spirit this is. Don’t answer yet.
Keep in mind what Jesus said about the spirit. Hopefully, it should eliminate some spirits from your mind regarding who this spirit is.
Knowing these things, the spirit will speak only what is heard, not of its own.
And it will teach about future things.
SIX – Prophecy and Fulfillment
The final topic we will discuss is understanding who the spirit of truth is in greater detail. We will now refer to John chapter 16, verse 25. This verse should be instantly recognizable to all of us, but we will revisit it once more.
“Though I have been speaking figuratively, a time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father.
John 16:25
A time is coming, although I have been speaking figuratively.
First Coming: Jesus → Parables (prophecy)
During his first coming, Jesus spoke in parables, which represented prophecy, as I have been speaking figuratively.
Second Coming: Another Counselor → Comes and Speaks Plainly (Fulfillment)
A time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of figurative language but will tell you plainly about my Father.
How will Jesus do this? Through another Counselor.
The Counselor’s job will be to speak what has been fulfilled according to prophecy.
Actual Reality
So, who is the spirit of truth? Well, we have actually already known the spirit of truth, and it is not who you think.
No, it is not the new John. The new John is a person, not him.
Not him. But we have actually already talked about the spirit of truth many times in the class, just didn’t know it yet.
Who is the spirit of truth?
[Student]
The Holy Spirit.
[Instructor]
Which Holy Spirit?
[Student]
The angel.
[Instructor]
Which angel?
[Student]
The angel that talks to John.
[Instructor]
Some of you don’t seem convinced. So, let’s see him one more time.
The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
Revelation 1:1-3
What is it? The revelation of Jesus Christ.
So whose revelation is it? It is Jesus’s revelation.
He will take from what is Mine.
God gave it to him to show his servants what must soon take place.
He (Jesus) made it known by sending his angel to his servant John.
Pause.
He made it known. How? By sending his servant (angel) to John.
To John. That’s right. The very one he (Jesus) promised.
In John chapters 14, 15, and 16, the same spirit is mentioned. Remember, Jesus said, “He (the spirit) will lead you into all truth. He will not speak on his own. He will only speak what is heard, and he will not speak on his own behalf. But he will take from what is Mine and make it known to you.”
How? By going to John, giving him the scroll to eat, and John has to testify. We have been talking about it since the beginning of the class.
Remember, I am emphasizing the importance of specificity. We have to be specific when it comes to scripture. Our problem, for the longest time, is painting the scripture with a broad brush. It says “Holy Spirit” in this scripture, and it says “Holy Spirit” in that scripture, and they are all capitalized, so it must be the same spirit. No, all the spirits that belong to God are holy.
So, the process, as all things begin, they begin with God. And Jesus said in John 16, “All things that belong to the Father are Mine.” They belong to me.
And if you think about it, that is what the apostle Paul was trying to make known to us in 1 Corinthians 15:27-28, when it says, “For he has put everything under his feet.” Now when it says that everything has been put under him, it is clear that this does not include God himself, who put everything under Christ. So that God may be all in all.
That is what was important to God, so God put everything under Jesus. So everything that belongs to God belongs to Jesus. If we look at the process of the delivery of revelation, which belongs to Jesus, why? Because he opened it.
It first started in a sealed state, sealed in God’s right hand, with seven seals. And then God gives it to Jesus, as mentioned in Revelation 5:7. And Jesus begins to open those seals, as described in Revelation 6 and Revelation 8:1 (six seals in chapter 6 and the last seal in 8:1). But Jesus did not keep this sealed book to himself. He also sent it to the spirit of truth.
And I want us to read a few things about this spirit to really understand deeply. And I know because of time, this might go on a little bit longer, but I’m going to try and wrap it up. I want us to understand why this is the spirit that Jesus promised.
God | Rev 5:1
If we go to Revelation chapter 4, pay attention to the appearance of God here. Let’s turn to Revelation chapter 4.
I will read because there are a few things I want to share. Revelation chapter 4, verses 1-3:
“After this, I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, ‘Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.’ At once, I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone seated on it. The one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian. A rainbow, resembling an emerald, encircled the throne.”
So, some things to keep in mind about the one seated on the throne: the figure represents God, surrounded by a rainbow.
Jesus | Rev 5:7, Rev 6, Rev 8:1
Now, let’s go to the book of Revelation, chapter 1.
Let’s read about Jesus’ appearance in Revelation chapter 1, verses 9-16. I will read it.
It says, “On the Lord’s day, I was in the Spirit. And I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet,
which said, ‘Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches:
Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.’ I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned,
I saw seven golden lampstands. And among the lampstands was someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet, and with a golden sash around his chest. His head and hair were white as snow, his eyes were like a fiery flame, his feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters.
In his right hand, he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance.” So, this describes Jesus’ appearance.
Note that.
The Mighty Angel | Rev 10:1-2
Let’s go to Revelation 10:1-2, which describes a figure with a face like the sun. You can’t look directly into the sun, so let’s read Revelation chapter 10, verses one and two.
It says, “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow over his head. His face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. He held a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land.” An interesting appearance indeed. Why does he look like God and Jesus?
Because he is also the Holy Spirit, sent by them. That’s right. He is the “another counselor” promised by Jesus. He is their advocate, and he speaks on their behalf. That’s why he looks like them. This is the specific Holy Spirit that Jesus promised. Keep this in mind.
Prophecy of Revelation and Evidence of its Fulfillment
Promised Shepherd | Rev 10:8-11, Rev 22:8
Jesus promised this here. I’m not saying this is the Holy Spirit mentioned in other places in the Bible. I’m saying this is the specific Holy Spirit that Jesus promised. And what does this spirit do with the little scroll that lay open in his hand? What did he do with that scroll? He gave it to John.
And then, what did John do? John ate the scroll that he was given. The word that was opened, Jesus gives it to the mighty angel. Because the mighty angel’s job is to make known what belonged to Jesus. And there’s something that this spirit says that I love, which is so important. If we go to Revelation 10:5-6, we’re still in Revelation 10.
This angel says, “Then the angel I had seen standing on the sea and on the land raised his right hand to heaven. And he swore by him who lives forever and ever, who created the heavens and all that is in them, and the earth and all that is in it, and the sea and all that is in it, and said, ‘There will be no more delay.'”
He will take from what is mine and make it known to you. Make known what must soon take place. What must soon take place is very important. There will be no more delay.
So this angel then gives the open scroll to John. And John was told, “Eat this, and it will taste as sweet in your mouth as honey. And though it tastes as sweet in your mouth as honey, in your stomach, it will become sour.”
And we’ve talked about why. Because he realizes what he then has to do with the word that he eats. He then must prophesy or testify to many peoples, nations, languages, and kings. And out of those peoples, nations, languages, and kings, there will come a people who will be harvested.
12 Tribes → Servents | Rev 22:16
And who will become the twelve tribes of Israel? The servants that are promised in Revelation 1:1-3.
So, how do spirits work, everyone? Through people.
As we’ve discussed earlier, spirits work through flesh.
So, we’ll have the spirit of truth, the counselor in the spirit, and the counselor in the flesh. But the words they speak are not their own words, but the words of God and Jesus. So, they cannot take credit for the words. They are told to testify because it did not come from them. It comes through them.
Let’s read two additional verses.
8 I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I had heard and seen them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had been showing them to me. 16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.”
Revelation 22:8, 16
The angel referred to is the spirit of truth.
Jesus said, “I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright morning star. I have sent my angel or messenger, who will come together with the message that I am sending to them.” This revelation is what Jesus meant when he said, “I have much more to tell you, much more than you can now bear.”
Imagine if Jesus had told the revelation to the disciples at that moment when they were struggling to be washed by Jesus’s hands. Imagine Peter at that point, hearing the revelation, saying, “Lord, don’t just wash my feet then, wash my whole body too.” They weren’t ready for the revelation, not yet. They still had a ways to go. That’s why Jesus said that, but later on, after the disciples became legends and were martyred, and John being the last living disciple, he was ready to receive the words of revelation. And then he wrote them down, and now we have God’s final plan that must be fulfilled and explained to the people.
Think about this very carefully when you are thinking, “Okay, but I thought…” The spirit of truth speaks of the words of Jesus, so they must be the words that Jesus spoke that needed to be fulfilled, not what someone thinks they are hearing or thinks they understand on any given day, but the words that must be fulfilled at a specific time that was Jesus’s, that is now needing to be made known to us.
Specifically, I’m talking about the spirit promised by Jesus in these chapters, the spirit of truth that represents the fulfillment of Jesus’s prophecy and parable, the word that must flee from lies and false hope, the seed that contains the lesson for this time and era, the open revelation that was once sealed.
Memorization
But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 16:25 “Though I have been speaking figuratively, a time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father.
John 14:26
Let’s Us Discern
Discernment is still a work in progress …. Proverbs 14:15 (ESV)
“The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.”
Analysis
Questions to Self-Reflect
Outline
Outline: The Spirit of Truth and the Counselor
I. Introduction: Setting the Stage
- Emphasis on Attentive Listening: This section stresses the importance of absorbing the content rather than focusing on note-taking, highlighting the intricate nature of the lesson.
- Context of John 16: This section places John 16 within the broader context of Jesus’ final conversations with his disciples (John 13-16), framing the discussion of the Spirit of Truth.
- Two Counselors at the Second Coming: Introduces the concept of dual counselors at the Second Coming, piquing curiosity and setting the stage for deeper exploration.
II. Review: Foundational Concepts from Previous Session
- The Place Prepared by Jesus: Reviews the identification of the Holy City, New Jerusalem, as the place prepared by Jesus.
- The 12 Tribes of New Spiritual Israel: Recaps the connection between the 12 tribes of the new spiritual Israel and the 12 disciples, based on Jesus’ promise in Matthew 19:27-28.
- The Holy City and Sheep-like Believers: Summarizes the characteristics of sheep-like believers (Matthew 25) who will inherit the Holy City, emphasizing their actions and spiritual nourishment.
- Qualifications for Entering Heaven: Reiterates the importance of doing God’s will, as detailed in His word, encompassing various aspects of righteous living.
III. God’s Communication Strategy: Unveiling His Presence
- God’s Invisibility and Human Dependence on Senses: Addresses the challenge of God’s invisibility to human senses and how it can lead to His being overlooked.
- Prophecy and Fulfillment as Proof of God’s Action: Explains how God uses prophecy and its fulfillment to reveal His presence and demonstrate that He is a living and active God.
IV. Understanding the Spirits of God: A Foundational Exploration
- The Division of the Spiritual World: Recounts the separation of the spiritual world into holiness and evil, truth and lies, emphasizing the need for discernment.
- God as Holy Spirit: Establishes God as a holy spirit, drawing upon John 4:24 and Leviticus 19:2 to highlight His spiritual nature and inherent holiness.
- Jesus as Holy Spirit: Explores the concept of Jesus as a holy spirit, referencing Revelation 1:12-13, Revelation 2:1, 7, and Mark 1:21 to demonstrate the multifaceted nature of Jesus’s being.
- Angels as Holy Spirits: Presents angels as holy spirits, citing Hebrews 1:7, 14 and Mark 8:38 to reveal their spiritual essence and alignment with God’s holiness.
- Unity of God’s Spirits: Emphasizes the shared holiness and unity of purpose among all spirits of God, highlighting their obedience to the Father’s will.
V. The Advocate (Counselor) at the First Coming: Jesus’ Role
- Defining the Counselor’s Role: Explains the dual functions of a counselor: teaching and protecting, drawing parallels with guidance counselors and spiritual mentors.
- Identifying Jesus as the First Coming Counselor: Reveals Jesus as the counselor at the first coming, referencing 1 John 2:1 to highlight his role as advocate, mediator, and messenger.
- The Logic of God’s Messengers: Explores the consistent pattern of God sending messengers to speak on His behalf, using the example of Moses and Aaron (Exodus 4:14-17) to illustrate this principle.
- Jesus as God’s Spokesperson: Confirms that Jesus spoke on God’s behalf, citing John 17:8 and John 14:24 to emphasize his role as the conveyor of God’s words.
- Accepting the Messenger, Accepting God: Explains the inseparable connection between accepting the messenger (Jesus) and accepting God, referencing John 13:20 and John 15:23 to underscore this vital point.
- Jesus as the Only Way to the Father: Reasserts the exclusivity of Jesus as the path to God, drawing upon John 14:6 to emphasize the necessity of going through Jesus to reach the Father.
- Jesus’ Advocacy on Behalf of Humanity: Describes Jesus’ role as high priest, interceding on behalf of humanity, referencing Hebrews 2:14-18 to explain his compassionate advocacy and atoning sacrifice.
VI. The Advocate (Counselor) at the Second Coming: The Spirit of Truth
- Promise of Another Counselor: Highlights Jesus’ promise of another counselor, citing John 14:16-17 to introduce the Spirit of Truth as the advocate for the present age.
- Key Characteristics of the Spirit of Truth: Identifies crucial aspects of the Spirit of Truth, emphasizing its eternal presence, indwelling nature, and invisibility to the world.
- Sent by Jesus in His Name: Explains that the Spirit of Truth is sent by Jesus in His name, just as Jesus was sent by God in His name, drawing upon John 14:26 to illustrate this parallel.
- Role and Duty of the Spirit of Truth: Enumerates the Spirit of Truth’s functions: leading into all truth, speaking what is heard from Jesus, teaching about future things, and prophesying Jesus’ words.
- Speaking Figuratively vs. Speaking Plainly: Contrasts Jesus’ use of parables (figurative language) during his first coming with the Spirit of Truth’s role in revealing the plain truth about the Father, referencing John 16:25.
VII. Unmasking the Spirit of Truth: Revelation’s Messenger
- Refuting Common Misconceptions: Addresses and clarifies misunderstandings about the Spirit of Truth’s identity.
- Introducing the Angel of Revelation: Identifies the angel of Revelation as the embodiment of the Spirit of Truth promised by Jesus.
- Comparing the Appearances of God, Jesus, and the Angel: Draws parallels between the descriptions of God (Revelation 4:1-3), Jesus (Revelation 1:9-16), and the angel (Revelation 10:1-2) to highlight their shared characteristics and suggest a connection.
- The Promised Shepherd and the Scroll: Explains the angel’s role in delivering the open scroll to John (Revelation 10:8-11, 22:8) and John’s subsequent consumption of the scroll, symbolizing the internalization of God’s message.
- The 12 Tribes as Servants of God: Connects the emergence of the 12 tribes of Israel with the servants mentioned in Revelation 1:1-3, suggesting a fulfillment of God’s plan through these faithful individuals.
- Spirits Working Through People: Reiterates the principle that spirits work through people, emphasizing the interconnectedness between the spiritual and physical realms.
- The Spirit of Truth as the Fulfillment of Prophecy: Positions the spirit of truth as the agent of fulfilling Jesus’s prophecy and parables, clarifying that the spirit speaks the words of Jesus that need to be fulfilled at the appointed time.
- The Open Revelation and its Swift Fulfillment: Emphasizes the rapid unfolding of events described in Revelation, underscoring the urgency and importance of heeding its message.
VIII. Conclusion: Summarizing Key Insights
- Reiterating the Unity and Purpose of God’s Spirits: Re-emphasizes the holiness and shared purpose of all God’s spirits, highlighting their role as advocates and messengers.
- Contrasting the Roles of Jesus and the Spirit of Truth: Summarizes the distinct yet interconnected roles of Jesus as the first coming counselor and the Spirit of Truth as the advocate for the present age.
- Highlighting the Importance of Revelation’s Fulfillment: Underscores the significance of Revelation’s fulfillment, emphasizing the swiftness of events and the urgent call to heed its message.
A Study Guide
Revelation Study Guide: The Spirit of Truth, The Counselor
Quiz
Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.
- What is the primary twofold role of a counselor or advocate?
- Who was the counselor at the first coming of Jesus? Explain why.
- How is the relationship between God and Jesus similar to the one between Moses and Aaron?
- What are three key points about the “another Counselor” promised by Jesus?
- How does John 14:29 help us understand God’s way of revealing Himself to humanity?
- Why is it significant that the Spirit of Truth “will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears”?
- What does the Spirit of Truth “take from what is Jesus'” and make known to us?
- How does the imagery of a rainbow connect God, Jesus, and the mighty angel in Revelation?
- What is the significance of the statement “There will be no more delay” uttered by the angel in Revelation 10:6?
- Who are the 12 tribes of the new spiritual Israel, and how are they connected to the servants mentioned in Revelation?
Answer Key
- The primary role of a counselor or advocate is to teach and protect. They assess the individual’s situation and recommend the best course of action, speaking on their behalf and ensuring their well-being.
- Jesus was the counselor at the first coming. He acted as our mediator and advocate, speaking to God on our behalf and delivering God’s message to humanity.
- Both relationships demonstrate the concept of a sender and a spokesperson. God sent Jesus to speak His words, just as Moses, acting as a conduit for God’s message, instructed Aaron to speak on his behalf to the people.
- The “another Counselor” will be with us forever, dwell in us, and speak through us, though the world may not accept him. This Counselor is the Spirit of Truth, sent by Jesus in his name.
- By foretelling events before they happen, God provides evidence of His active presence and power. When His prophecies come true, we can confidently recognize His hand at work and believe in His guidance.
- This emphasizes the Spirit of Truth’s role as a messenger faithfully relaying Jesus’s message. He does not add or subtract from Jesus’s teachings, ensuring the purity and accuracy of the message.
- The Spirit of Truth takes Jesus’s revelation, specifically the book of Revelation, and makes it known to humanity. This includes the events of the end times, God’s final plan for humanity, and the establishment of the new spiritual Israel.
- The rainbow symbolizes God’s covenant and His presence. It encircles God’s throne, appears over the angel’s head, and reflects Jesus’s glorious appearance, signifying the unified nature and shared authority of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
- This signifies the urgency and swiftness with which the events of Revelation will unfold. The time for God’s plan to be fully realized has arrived, and the events will happen rapidly.
- The 12 tribes are the servants who accept and heed the message of Revelation. They represent the new spiritual Israel, born from those who hear and follow the word revealed through the Spirit of Truth.
Additional Questions
1. What are Holy Spirits?
– Jesus, God, and the Angels.
Basically, all Spirits of God are Holy Spirits.
2. What is the Counselor’s will? What does this Counselor do?
– Teach and protect.
So, let’s understand this a little bit more. To teach us the truth, right, and to protect us from falsehood and lies, which is death.
So, this Counselor’s job is to teach and protect with grace.
3. Who is the Counselor at the time of First Coming?
– Jesus.
4. Who is the Counselor at the Second Coming?
– The Promised Pastor, New John.
Glossary of Key Terms
- Advocate: A person who speaks or acts on behalf of another person or group.
- Counselor: A person who provides guidance and support, particularly in spiritual matters.
- Holy Spirit: The third person of the Trinity, representing God’s active presence and power in the world.
- Parable: A story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson.
- Prophecy: A message communicated by a prophet, often revealing future events or God’s will.
- Revelation: The act of God making something known, specifically referring to the book of Revelation detailing the end times and God’s final plan.
- Spirit of Truth: The specific Holy Spirit promised by Jesus to guide believers into all truth and reveal the fulfillment of his prophecies.
- 12 Tribes of Israel: The symbolic representation of the new spiritual Israel, comprised of those who accept the message of Revelation and are guided by the Spirit of Truth.
Breakdown
Timeline of Events
Old Testament Times:
- Creation & Fall: God creates humanity and communes with them. However, sin enters the world, leading to separation between God and humanity.
- God Calls Prophets & Leaders: God begins sending prophets and leaders (like Moses and Aaron) to speak on his behalf and guide humanity.
New Testament Times – First Coming of Jesus:
- John the Baptist Prepares the Way: John the Baptist, filled with the spirit and power of Elijah, prepares the way for Jesus and baptizes him.
- Jesus’ Ministry: Jesus comes to earth as the Word of God in flesh. He preaches, performs miracles, and fulfills prophecy. He is the first Counselor, mediating between God and humanity.
- Jesus’ Crucifixion & Resurrection: Jesus dies on the cross, atoning for the sins of humanity. He is resurrected, demonstrating victory over death.
- Promise of Another Counselor: Before ascending to heaven, Jesus promises to send “another Counselor,” the Spirit of Truth, to guide and teach his followers.
The Present and Future:
- Revelation Given to John: The resurrected Jesus reveals the book of Revelation to John through a mighty angel, the Spirit of Truth.
- John Eats the Scroll: John consumes the scroll containing the Revelation, finding it both sweet and bitter. He is tasked with sharing this prophecy with the world.
- Revelation Unfolds: The events of Revelation begin to unfold rapidly, fulfilling prophecy.
- Second Coming of Jesus: The timeline culminates in the anticipated second coming of Jesus, where he will judge the world and establish his kingdom.
Cast of Characters
God:
- The ultimate source of truth and authority.
- Sends prophets and leaders to communicate with humanity.
- Gives the sealed book of Revelation to Jesus.
Jesus:
- The Son of God, the Word made flesh.
- The first Counselor, speaking God’s words and mediating between God and humanity.
- Sacrifices himself on the cross, atoning for sin and offering salvation.
- Promises to send the Spirit of Truth after his ascension.
- Opens the sealed book of Revelation.
Holy Spirit:
- A term used to refer to various divine messengers and spirits of God.
- The Spirit of Truth: The specific Holy Spirit promised by Jesus to come after his ascension. This Spirit takes what belongs to Jesus and makes it known to humanity.
- The Mighty Angel: The angel who delivers the book of Revelation to John. He is described with attributes of God and Jesus, suggesting he acts as their representative.
Prophets & Leaders (Old Testament):
- Moses: Receives God’s law and leads the Israelites out of Egypt. He relies on his brother Aaron to speak for him.
- Aaron: Moses’ brother, appointed by God to speak on Moses’ behalf to the people.
New Testament Figures:
- John the Baptist: The forerunner of Jesus, preparing the way for his ministry. He comes in the spirit and power of Elijah.
- The Twelve Disciples: Jesus’ closest followers, who witness his ministry and receive his teachings.
- John: The apostle who receives the book of Revelation and is tasked with sharing its prophecy.
Other:
- Satan: The fallen angel who opposes God and seeks to deceive humanity. His existence necessitates the declaration of truth and holiness.
- Angels: Ministering spirits who serve God and carry out his will.
- Humanity: Those who God seeks to redeem and restore to fellowship with him.
- The 12 Tribes of New Spiritual Israel: Believers who inherit salvation and are named after the 12 disciples. They will reside in the Holy City, New Jerusalem.
Overview
Overview: The Spirit of Truth, the Counselor
Main Themes:
- Understanding the nature of God’s spirits and their role as messengers and advocates.
- Identifying the Counselor at the first coming as Jesus and exploring his role as mediator and teacher.
- Recognizing the spirit of truth promised by Jesus as a distinct Holy Spirit who reveals the fulfillment of prophecy.
- Unveiling the identity of the spirit of truth as the mighty angel in Revelation, who delivers the open scroll to John.
- Emphasizing the importance of specificity in interpreting scripture and focusing on the fulfillment of prophecy.
Most Important Ideas/Facts:
- All spirits of God are Holy Spirits, capable of being sent as messengers and empowered to act on God’s behalf. They work through individuals to convey God’s will and power.
“All spirits of God are holy spirits. All of them. And any of them can be sent to do the work of a holy spirit, because they all do one will.”
- The Counselor at the first coming was Jesus, acting as mediator, teacher, and advocate between God and humanity. He spoke God’s words to the people, and petitioned God on their behalf, offering atonement through his sacrifice.
“Jesus was the counselor at the first coming, which means His job was to be our messenger, our mediator, our counselor, and He is the advocate, the one who spoke on our behalf, the one who stood between us and the wrath of God.”
- Jesus promised another Counselor, the spirit of truth, who would guide believers into all truth and reveal future events. This spirit would speak only what is heard from Jesus and would not speak on its own behalf.
“But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
- The spirit of truth is identified as the mighty angel in Revelation, who delivers the open scroll to John. This angel’s appearance reflects God and Jesus, symbolizing its role as their advocate.
“Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow over his head. His face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars.”
- John, after consuming the scroll, is tasked with proclaiming the fulfilled and yet-to-be-fulfilled prophecies of Revelation. This signifies the spirit of truth revealing the fulfillment of Jesus’ words and ushering in a time of swift judgment.
“And he swore by him who lives forever and ever, who created the heavens and all that is in them, and the earth and all that is in it, and the sea and all that is in it, and said, ‘There will be no more delay.'”
Quotes from Source:
- “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24)
- “I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him.” (John 5:43)
- “The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” (John 14:17)
- “He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you.” (John 16:14)
- “Though I have been speaking figuratively, a time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father.” (John 16:25)
Key Takeaways:
The provided lesson presents a distinct interpretation of the Holy Spirit and the spirit of truth, focusing on their roles as messengers and advocates for God and Jesus. It emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy through the revelation of John and highlights the urgency of the events described, as “there will be no more delay.” By analyzing the specific characteristics and actions of the spirit of truth, the text aims to provide a deeper understanding of its significance in God’s plan and its role in revealing truth to believers.
Q&A
Q&A: The Spirit of Truth, The Counselor
1. Who is the Spirit of Truth?
The Spirit of Truth is a specific Holy Spirit, identified as the mighty angel in Revelation. This angel receives the open scroll from Jesus, representing the revealed word of God, and delivers it to John. This Spirit acts as a counselor, guiding believers into all truth by revealing the fulfillment of Jesus’s prophecies and teachings.
2. What is the role of a counselor in a spiritual context?
A spiritual counselor acts as an advocate, mediator, and teacher. Their primary role is to teach and protect, offering guidance with grace. They speak on behalf of a higher authority, relaying messages and ensuring understanding between both parties.
3. Who was the counselor at the first coming of Jesus?
Jesus himself was the counselor at his first coming. He served as the mediator between God and humanity, teaching God’s words, atoning for sins, and advocating for believers before God.
4. How do spirits work in relation to people?
Spirits work through people, using them as vessels to deliver messages and carry out God’s will. John the Baptist, for instance, was filled with the spirit of Elijah. Similarly, the Spirit of Truth works through individuals to reveal God’s truth.
5. Why does the mighty angel in Revelation resemble God and Jesus?
The mighty angel shares a similar appearance with God and Jesus because this angel acts as their advocate and counselor, speaking on their behalf. This visual similarity emphasizes the connection and unity between them.
6. What is the significance of the open scroll given to John?
The open scroll represents the revealed word of God, specifically the book of Revelation. Its open state signifies the unveiling of God’s plan and the fulfillment of prophecies. John, by consuming the scroll, internalizes this revelation and is tasked with sharing it with the world.
7. Why does the scroll taste sweet in John’s mouth but sour in his stomach?
The sweetness represents the initial joy and privilege of receiving God’s revelation. The sourness, however, reflects the weighty responsibility and potential challenges that come with sharing this truth with a world that may not be receptive to it.
8. What does the phrase “there will be no more delay” signify?
This phrase, spoken by the mighty angel, emphasizes the urgency and swiftness with which the events of Revelation will unfold. It underscores the importance of heeding the message and preparing for the fulfillment of God’s plan.