JOHN 15:26–27
THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH AND THE MISSION OF WITNESS
Text – John 15:26–27
26 “When the Advocate comes whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, he will testify to me.
27 And you also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning.”
Historical and Jewish Context
In Jewish legal tradition, truth was established by the testimony of witnesses. Jesus speaks here in judicial language: the Spirit acts as a divine witness, while the disciples serve as human witnesses. The promise comes in the context of persecution, assuring the disciples that their testimony will not rest on human strength alone. The idea of God’s Spirit “proceeding” reflects biblical language of God’s breath and presence active in history.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage reveals the cooperation between divine grace and human mission. Catholic theology teaches that the Holy Spirit is the principal agent of evangelization, bearing interior witness to Christ, while the Apostles and the Church bear exterior witness through proclamation and life. The Spirit’s procession from the Father affirms Trinitarian faith, and His being sent by the Son highlights the unity of the Trinity. Christian witness is both gift and responsibility, grounded in lived experience with Christ.
Parallels in Scripture
Isaiah 43:10 – God’s people as witnesses.
Acts 1:8 – Power of the Spirit for witness.
Luke 24:48–49 – Witnesses clothed with power.
1 John 5:6–8 – The Spirit testifying to truth.
Matthew 10:20 – The Spirit speaking through disciples.
Key Terms
Advocate – The Holy Spirit as defender and guide.
Spirit of truth – Divine revealer of Christ.
Proceeding – Trinitarian origin of the Spirit.
Testify – Bearing witness to Christ.
From the beginning – Apostolic foundation.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is proclaimed during the Easter season and near Pentecost. The Church reflects on the Spirit’s role in empowering witness and sustaining faith amid persecution.
Conclusion
John 15:26–27 reveals that Christian witness is never solitary. The Spirit of truth testifies from within, while believers testify through word and life. Together, divine and human witness proclaim Christ to the world.
Reflection
Do I rely on the Holy Spirit when I bear witness to Christ?
How does my life testify to what I have received?
Am I conscious of being sent as a witness today?
Prayer
Holy Spirit, Spirit of truth, strengthen my witness to Christ. Give me courage to testify with words and actions, trusting that You speak through me. May my life proclaim the truth of the Gospel. Amen.