The Blessings on Christ's Departure

Is there ever a time when it’s actually helpful for your closest friend to go away? Is there an occasion where their departure is a tremendous blessing and benefit to you?

Well, Jesus says that there is. In fact, in John 16, He is preparing His disciples for His own departure. He comforts them in John chapter 14. Then, He commands them to abide in Him and love one another as He has loved them in John chapter 15. But now, in John 16:7-8, He says, “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper [the Holy Spirit] will not come to you. But if I go, I will send Him to you. And when He comes, He will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” So there’s an unbelievable blessing to Jesus’ departure. Not only does He pay the penalty for our sins and give us the gift of eternal life in His death, burial, and resurrection. But in addition, He gives us the Holy Spirit with His ascension – that leads, directs, and comforts us in every situation. So praise God that Christ’s departure brought us such wonderful blessings and benefits!

Something to think about from the Proclamation point of view.