The works of the Spirit

And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged (John 16:8-11)

Jesus before going to ascend to heaven instructs his disciples concerning the works of the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit who will do the convicting of the world of sin, righteousness and judgment.

And when he comes…

1. As the Spirit comes, he will convict the world of
   1. Sin
   2. Righteousness
   3. Judgment
2. Upon coming, the Spirit will carry on the reproving role of the Lord Jesus
   1. As to who to believe in (Cf. 1 Tim.3:16)
   2. As to what to follow after (Cf. 1 Tim.6:11-12)
   3. As to what to be aware of (Cf. 1 Tim.4:1)

Concerning sin…

1. This notion of singularity of sin may refer to
   1. The sin of unbelief, willful and deliberate (Cf. Heb.10:26)
   2. The sin of disbelieving in Jesus as the Messiah (Cf. Luke 11:14-23)
2. The role of the Spirit is to testify of the name of Jesus
3. Anything contrary to the testimony of the Spirit is exposed as sin

Concerning righteousness…

1. This particular righteousness in question may refer to
   1. The righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith (Romans 1:17)
   2. The righteousness of God Christ exemplified while walking on earth
2. The Spirit will demonstrate all that Jesus has told us are true and righteous (John 14: 26)
3. The Spirit of truth will affirm in more ways than one that Jesus, after all, is our righteousness (1Cor.1:30)

Concerning judgment…

1. This particular judgment has everything to do with the ruler (“arkon”) of this world (Cf. 2 Cor. 4:4 ‘god that blinded us’)
2. The ruler of this world has been judged (“kekritai”)
   1. He was judged
   2. He continues to be judged
   3. The impact is still to be felt at all costs