Why would Jesus tell his disciples that it was 'better' for them that he returned to the Father? At first glance I struggled with this statement. If I had been with Jesus for those 3 years, there is no way I could imagine anything or anyone better. However, Jesus insists that this is the case and we need to know why. Hall Harris gives us this lovely insight:
"But
why is it better for the disciples to have the presence of the Paraclete than
the presence of Jesus himself as they do now? Because the Paraclete will not
only be with them as Jesus has been, but in them as well (John 17:23,
26)."
This is the key difference. When Jesus was physically present with his disciples he was limited to time and space - he could only be in one place at a time. However, when the Holy Spirit came this changed the playing field. Now everyone had access to the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit.
So, if there is an answer to the question: "Is there anything better than Jesus?" The answer would have to be: Yes, it is the Spirit living within us.
What do you think?
Living in Grace
D3LM3
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