cross-examination
"When the Paraclete comes, the Spirit of truth Who comes from the Father — and Whom I Myself will send from the Father — He will bear witness on My behalf. You must bear witness as well." —John 15:26-27
The Holy Spirit is called "the Paraclete." This title is sometimes translated "helper" or "advocate." However, a paraclete is not a helper in general. For instance, if someone helped you carry your groceries, he is your helper but not your paraclete. To be a paraclete means specifically to help in a courtroom. Paracletes help witnesses who are being cross-examined.
As we witness for Jesus in the courtroom of this world, various people attack us, libel our way of life (1 Pt 3:16), and try to discredit our testimony. They attempt to tear us to shreds. Jesus, the faithful Witness (Rv 1:5), was actually torn to shreds when He took the witness stand of Calvary. When we are witnessing for Jesus and being attacked by the world, we need all the help we can get. We need the Helper, the Paraclete, the Holy Spirit. Being our Paraclete, the Spirit will give us the words to say on the witness stand of life. We "will not be the speakers"; the Paraclete will be speaking in us (Mt 10:20).
Be a witness for Jesus. See your need for and receive the Paraclete.
Prayer: Father, may I make a strong stand for Jesus and thereby see my need for the Holy Spirit.
Promise: "After she and her household had been baptized, she extended us an invitation: 'If you are convinced that I believe in the Lord, come and stay at my house.' " —Acts 16:15
Praise: Tom planned to use a Scripture verse as part of a motivational speech. He opened His Bible to the wrong verse, read it, cried tears of repentance, and received Jesus into his life right there at the podium.
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, November 2, 2012
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