God's Love Revealed Through the Trinity: Understanding the Farewell Speech of Jesus

The first lecture of the Easter Retreat at Oceania OC was delivered by Dr. Kathy Tran and focused on John 14:15-31, the "Farewell Speech" of Jesus. The message led participants to reflect on the deep truth of the Trinity and how God revealed Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit out of His love for the world.
Before the lecture, participants were given discussion questions to prepare their thoughts: Why was it necessary for Jesus to come? And why was it necessary for the Holy Spirit to come? These questions opened up meaningful conversations and set the stage for deeper understanding.

Dr. Kathy explained three main purposes for Jesus' coming: first, as the revelation of God; second, as the Saviour to save sinners; and third, as the Lord to show the Way of life. Jesus made God known, brought salvation, and guided people into a new life.

The lecture then explored the role of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit was sent to lead those who had been justified through Christ. While Jesus changed their state-from sinners to forgiven-the Holy Spirit changes their status by sanctifying them and making them holy. The Spirit completes and perfects the salvation Jesus provided, preparing believers to live in God's presence.

Another important part of the message was the explanation of the "Era of the Holy Spirit." Dr. Kathy taught that history has passed through three stages: first, the era of lawlessness when people did not recognize sin; second, the Era of the Law, when Moses received the law that pointed out sin but could not remove it; and third, the Era of Grace through Jesus Christ. In a broader view, history is also divided into the Era of the Father (when God spoke through messengers), the Era of the Son (when God revealed Himself through Jesus), and the Era of the Holy Spirit (when God dwells in those who believe in Jesus).

Dr. Kathy concluded by sharing the most important truth: God revealed Himself as a Triune God because of His deep love. The Holy Father loves the world. The Holy Son loves the world. The Holy Spirit loves the world. Out of this love, the Triune God makes Himself known to His people.

This lecture helped all participants grow in their understanding of God's love and His divine plan of salvation through the Trinity. It was a powerful reminder of how deeply God cares for His people and how He continues to be with them through His Spirit.