Discussion Questions for June 21, 2026
If you enjoy these questions or they are useful, I would like to hear about it! - Pastor Harvey
1. The "Force" vs. The Person
Many Christians mistakenly treat the Holy Spirit like an impersonal cosmic energy source—something we "tap into" when we need an extra boost, rather than a Person we relate to.
2. Translating the Paraclete
The Greek word Parakletos is translated as Helper, Comforter, Advocate, or Counselor, showing how multi-faceted His role is in our lives.
3. The Exhaustion of the "Darksaber" Mindset
We discussed the exhaustion of trying to "conquer" our careers, relationships, or even our own sin and temptation using sheer human willpower. This leaves believers looking "beat down, wore out, and defeated."
4. Keeping in Step vs. Overpowering
The sermon draws a sharp line: "We don't fight the Spirit for control; we keep in step with Him." The world's definition of power is flipped completely on its head.
5. The Necessity of Divine Help
Keeping God's commandments would be entirely impossible under our own strength, which is why Jesus promised that all believers are given the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8).
If you enjoy these questions or they are useful, I would like to hear about it! - Pastor Harvey
1. The "Force" vs. The Person
Many Christians mistakenly treat the Holy Spirit like an impersonal cosmic energy source—something we "tap into" when we need an extra boost, rather than a Person we relate to.
- For Introspection: Honestly evaluate your prayer life and daily thoughts. Do you tend to view the Holy Spirit more as a passive "spiritual utility" or as an active, personal Counselor who is right alongside you? What is one practical way you can acknowledge His personality this week?
2. Translating the Paraclete
The Greek word Parakletos is translated as Helper, Comforter, Advocate, or Counselor, showing how multi-faceted His role is in our lives.
- Which of these four descriptions (Helper, Comforter, Advocate, Counselor) resonates with you the most right now in your current season of life, and why? Share a time when you tangibly experienced the Holy Spirit operating in that specific role.
3. The Exhaustion of the "Darksaber" Mindset
We discussed the exhaustion of trying to "conquer" our careers, relationships, or even our own sin and temptation using sheer human willpower. This leaves believers looking "beat down, wore out, and defeated."
- Where in your life right now are you wielding the "Darksaber"—fighting for absolute control and trying to force life to surrender to your will? What does it look like to practically "lay down that weapon" in that specific area?
4. Keeping in Step vs. Overpowering
The sermon draws a sharp line: "We don't fight the Spirit for control; we keep in step with Him." The world's definition of power is flipped completely on its head.
- Think about a recent decision or conflict where you felt internal tension. Were you trying to overpower the situation to get your way, or were you pausing to listen to the promptings and conviction of the Spirit of Truth? How can you cultivate a posture of surrender rather than dominance?
5. The Necessity of Divine Help
Keeping God's commandments would be entirely impossible under our own strength, which is why Jesus promised that all believers are given the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8).
- Read John 14:15-16 again - Why is it dangerous to separate verse 15 ("If you love me, you will keep my commandments") from verse 16 ("And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper")? How does knowing that obedience requires a divine Helper change the way you view God's rules?