In this message from the “The Final Hour” series, Pastor Robbie walks through John 16 as Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure. Jesus warns that persecution is inevitable, promises the power of the Holy Spirit, and invites believers into bold, joy-filled prayer in His name.
Key themes:
- Jesus prepares His disciples so they “will not fall away” when persecution comes (John 16:1).
- Persecution has always marked the true church—from the book of Acts to the global church today.
- Christians are called to live “in the world but not of the world”: not isolating from culture, and not imitating it, but serving as salt and light.
- The Holy Spirit is a Person, the third member of the Trinity, who gives believers power to witness and guides them into all truth.
- Prayer in Jesus’ name is access to the Father through Christ’s authority, not a magic formula.
- Prayer is both personal and corporate; the church is called to pray with and for one another.
Scripture to Read:
Main Scripture Passage
- John 16:1–15, 23–24
Supporting Scripture Passage
- Acts 7:54–60; Acts 8:1–3 (Stephen’s martyrdom and the spread of persecution)
Application Scripture Passage
- Titus 3:3–7 (remembering who we once were and how God saved us shapes how we live in the world)
Questions to consider:
- Where am I tempted either to isolate from the world or to imitate it?
- How aware am I of persecuted believers around the world, and how can I pray for them?
- In what specific area do I need to depend on the Holy Spirit’s power and seek God boldly in prayer this week?
What is GFBC Hemet Sunday Sermons?
Welcome to the Grace Fellowship Bible Church podcast. Each episode features a sermon from our church family in Hemet, where we open God’s Word, grow in grace, and learn to follow Jesus together. We’re glad you’re listening, and we pray these messages strengthen your faith and encourage your heart.