WHO IS THE HOLY SPIRIT?
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come.”
(John 16:13)
INTRODUCTION
During one of his missionary journeys, the Apostle Paul met some disciples in Ephesus. When the conversation turned to the Holy Spirit, they replied, “…We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost” (Acts 19:2).
The response Paul received from these Ephesian disciples reveals the sad and shameful treatment often given to the Holy Spirit, even in our day. Far too often, His existence is ignored and His ministry misunderstood. Therefore, it is my desire to shed some light on who the Holy Spirit is, what He does in our world, and how He fits into our everyday Christian lives.
It is important to understand that whenever the Holy Spirit is at work, God Himself is at work, creating, speaking, transforming, indwelling, and empowering His people. Although the Holy Spirit can work without us fully understanding Him, it is helpful for us to know more about Him. Otherwise, we may end up where Israel did: “my people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…” (Hosea 4:6).
Illustration:
A farmer may own good seed and rich soil, but if he does not understand when or how to plant, the harvest may fail. In the same way, many Christians have the Holy Spirit living within them, yet know very little about Him or His work.
Whenever the Holy Spirit speaks, it is God speaking. For example, when Ananias lied to the Holy Spirit in Acts 5:3-4, he was not lying to a representative of God, he was lying directly to God.
Illustration:
If someone insults a man’s wife, they are not merely offending the wife, they are offending the husband also. In the same way, when Ananias lied to the Holy Spirit, he was lying directly to God Himself.
When a lost sinner calls upon the name of the Lord to be saved (Rom. 10:9-13), many wonderful things happen immediately. That person is forgiven of all sin, transferred from death unto life, and removed from the kingdom of Satan into the kingdom of God. But perhaps the most amazing truth of all is this: the Father and the Son, in the person of the Holy Spirit, come to dwell within every believer.
The moment we confess our sin and trust Christ, we are born again, become members of God’s family, and the Holy Spirit immediately takes up residence within us. We become living temples of God, and His Spirit dwells inside of us.
Illustration:
Just as a family moves into a house and makes it their home, the Holy Spirit moves into the believer’s life and makes our heart His dwelling place. We are no longer empty and alone. God Himself lives within us.
Jesus said:
“Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.”
(John 14:17)
Later, the Apostle Paul wrote:
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?”
(1 Cor. 3:16)
In the Old Testament, the Spirit of God came upon people and anointed them for special service. He also came upon prophets to inspire them to write the Scriptures, but this was temporary.
In the New Testament, through the new birth, the Holy Spirit permanently indwells believers, making them His dwelling place.
THE SYMBOLS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Many people think of the Holy Spirit as some invisible force or mysterious energy. However, the Bible presents Him in personal and meaningful ways through different symbols and pictures.
In Scripture, the Holy Spirit is represented as:
- A Dove – “And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him.” (John 1:32)
- Fire – “And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.” (Acts 2:3)
- Oil – “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me…” (Luke 4:18)
- A Cloud – “And it came to pass, as Moses entered into the tabernacle, the cloudy pillar descended…” (Exodus 33:9)
- A Voice – “To day if ye will hear his voice…” (Psalm 95:7)
“For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.” (Matthew 10:20) - Water – “Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water… this spake he of the Spirit…” (John 7:37-39)
- Wind – “The wind bloweth where it listeth… so is every one that is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8)
- Breath – “And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” (John 20:22)
Each of these symbols teaches us something important about the Holy Spirit and His work in the life of the believer.
THE DEITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
The Holy Spirit is not merely a force, an influence, or a feeling. He is God. The Bible clearly teaches that the Holy Spirit possesses the same divine attributes as the Father and the Son.
He Is Omnipresent
This means the Holy Spirit is everywhere at all times. There is no place where God is absent.
David wrote:
“Whither shall I go from thy Spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?”
(Ps. 139:7)
No matter where we go, the Holy Spirit is there. Whether we are alone in a quiet room, walking through a valley of sorrow, or worshipping with other believers, God’s Spirit is present.
Illustration:
Just as the air around us is everywhere, though unseen, the Holy Spirit is always present. We may not see Him with our eyes, but we can never escape His presence.
He Is Omniscient
This means the Holy Spirit knows everything. Nothing is hidden from Him.
Paul wrote:
“But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.”
(1 Cor. 2:10-11)
The Holy Spirit knows the heart of God completely. He understands every truth, every thought, and every need in our lives.
Illustration:
A close friend may know us better than most people, but even the best friend cannot fully know our thoughts. Only God knows the deepest parts of the human heart. The Holy Spirit knows all things perfectly because He is God.
He Is Omnipotent
This means the Holy Spirit is all-powerful. Nothing is too difficult for Him.
Genesis tells us:
“And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.”
(Gen. 1:2)
The Holy Spirit was present and active in creation itself. The same Spirit who helped create the world is the same Spirit who lives in every believer today.
Illustration:
Only an all-powerful God can create something out of nothing. Just as the Holy Spirit brought order out of the darkness in Genesis, He can also bring peace, direction, and transformation into a broken life.
He Is Eternal
The Holy Spirit has no beginning and no end. He has always existed and always will.
The writer of Hebrews said:
“How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”
(Heb. 9:14)
Unlike man, who is limited by time, the Holy Spirit is eternal. He was present before the world began and will remain forever.
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A PERSON AND, LIKE US, HAS FEELINGS
The Holy Spirit is not merely a power or influence. He is a person. Because He is a person, He has emotions and can be personally affected by the actions of people.
The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit can be:
- Grieved – “And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” (Eph. 4:30)
- Lied to – “But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost…?” (Acts 5:3)
- Quenched by believers – “Quench not the Spirit.” (1 Thess. 5:19)
- Resisted by unbelievers – “Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost…” (Acts 7:51)
- Blasphemed – “…The blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.” (Matt. 12:31)
If the Holy Spirit were only a force or energy, none of these things would be possible. You cannot lie to electricity or grieve the wind. These verses remind us that the Holy Spirit is personal and relational.
Illustration:
When someone deeply loves us, our words and actions affect them. Kindness brings joy, while rejection brings sorrow. In the same way, the Holy Spirit lovingly works in our lives and is grieved when we ignore or resist Him.
Because the Holy Spirit lives within believers, our daily choices matter. Our speech, attitudes, and actions can either honor Him or grieve Him.
THE HOLY SPIRIT AUTHORED THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT
The Bible was not merely written by human wisdom. Holy men wrote the Scriptures as they were guided and moved by the Holy Spirit.
David wrote:
“The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.”
(2 Sam. 23:2)
Jeremiah wrote:
“Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.”
(Jer. 1:9)
Peter wrote:
“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
(2 Pet. 1:21)
John wrote:
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches…”
(Rev. 2:7)
Paul wrote:
“Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.”
(1 Cor. 2:13)
Although God used different men with different backgrounds and personalities, the true Author behind Scripture is the Holy Spirit.
Illustration:
A man may pick up a pen and write a letter, but the pen itself does not create the message. The pen simply moves in the hand of the writer. In a similar way, God used human writers to record His Word as they were guided by the Holy Spirit.
Because the Holy Spirit authored the Scriptures, the Bible is trustworthy, true, and powerful for every generation.
THE HOLY SPIRIT’S MINISTRY
- The Holy Spirit Was Present and Active During Creation
If you begin reading the Bible in Genesis, you will discover that by the second verse, the Holy Spirit is already present and active in creation.
“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.”
(Gen. 1:1-2)
The Holy Spirit was not a spectator during creation. He played an active role in bringing order, beauty, and life into the world God created. In fact, the Holy Spirit was involved throughout all six days of creation.
Illustration:
Just as a craftsman carefully shapes and builds a house, the Holy Spirit was actively involved in shaping and preparing the world for life. Where there was darkness and emptiness, He brought order and purpose.
- The Holy Spirit Was Involved Throughout Jesus’ Earthly Life
The ministry of Jesus Christ was closely connected with the Holy Spirit from beginning to end.
- The Holy Spirit placed Jesus in Mary’s womb.
“…that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.” (Matt. 1:20) - The Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus at His baptism.
“And Jesus, when he was baptized… he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove…” (Matt. 3:16) - The Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness.
“And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness.” (Luke 4:1) - The Holy Spirit anointed Jesus to preach the gospel.
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel…” (Luke 4:18) - Jesus cast out demons through the power of the Spirit.
“…I cast out devils by the Spirit of God…” (Matt. 12:28) - Jesus was raised from the dead by the Spirit.
“…the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you…” (Rom. 8:11)
The night Jesus met Nicodemus, He explained that salvation could only come through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus said:
“Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.”
(John 3:5)
Later Jesus declared:
“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me… out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”
(John 7:37-38)
John then explains:
“But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive…”
(John 7:39)
Illustration:
Just as water refreshes a thirsty body, the Holy Spirit refreshes the weary soul. Without water, life dries up. Without the Holy Spirit, the Christian life becomes empty and powerless.
- The Holy Spirit Took Over When Jesus Returned to the Father
At about thirty years of age, Jesus entered His public ministry. Crowds followed Him, listened to His teaching, and watched His miracles. Many believed He would overthrow the Roman government and become their earthly king.
Then Jesus shocked His disciples when He said:
“Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away… because I said, I go unto the Father…”
(John 14:28)
The disciples were deeply troubled. They had left everything to follow Jesus.
- He had taught them for three years.
- They knew no other master.
- Peter said he would die for Him.
- Thomas wanted to go wherever Jesus went.
Then in John 16:7, Jesus made an amazing statement concerning the Holy Spirit:
“…It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you…”
(John 16:7)
The word expedient means “to your advantage” or “for your good.” Jesus was telling His disciples that it would benefit them for Him to leave, because the Holy Spirit would come in His place.
Why Was It Better for Jesus to Leave?
Jesus, while on earth, was fully human and could only be in one place at a time. The Holy Spirit, however, can be everywhere at once.
Jesus ministered to people from the outside in, but the Holy Spirit ministers from the inside out.
When the Holy Spirit came in Acts chapter 2, more happened in a few hours than during many months of Jesus’ earthly ministry. Thousands were saved, and from that moment on, Spirit-filled believers carried the gospel throughout the world.
Illustration:
When Jesus walked on earth, people had to travel to where He was physically located. But after the coming of the Holy Spirit, God’s presence could dwell inside every believer everywhere in the world at the same time.
Through the power of the Holy Spirit, missionaries have carried the gospel across nations, and millions of souls have come into the kingdom of God.
- The Holy Spirit Is Involved in the New Birth
By nature, every person is born a sinner and separated from God.
Paul writes that we are:
“…by nature the children of wrath…”
(Eph. 2:3)
David said:
“Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.”
(Ps. 51:5)
From birth, mankind is bent toward sin, independence from God, and the ways of the world. Something must happen if we are to be saved from the wrath of God. We must be changed from the inside.
This is why the Holy Spirit convicts people of their sin.
Jesus said:
“And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.”
(John 16:8)
The new birth takes place when the Holy Spirit opens our eyes to see our sin as God sees it and reveals our desperate need for Jesus Christ.
The Holy Spirit also gives spiritual life to those who are spiritually dead.
Jesus said:
“It is the spirit that quickeneth (makes alive)…”
(John 6:63)
Paul wrote:
“…the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life.”
(2 Cor. 3:6)
Illustration:
A dead branch cannot produce fruit unless life flows into it again. In the same way, a spiritually dead sinner cannot produce spiritual life until the Holy Spirit brings him to life through the new birth.
When a person is born again, the Holy Spirit begins a wonderful work within that believer.
The Holy Spirit:
- Seals the believer
“…ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise.” (Eph. 1:13)
“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” (Eph. 4:30)
“The Lord knoweth them that are his…” (2 Tim. 2:19)
“…The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” (Rom. 8:16)
“And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts…” (Gal. 4:6) - Empowers the believer
“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…” (Acts 1:8)
“For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” (Rom. 8:2)
“…if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.” (Rom. 8:9)
“…through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” (Rom. 8:13) - Becomes the earnest, or guarantee, of our salvation
“…ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance…” (Eph. 1:13-14) - Helps the believer pray
“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought…” (Rom. 8:26)
“…the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” (Rom. 8:26)
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God…” (Rom. 8:28)
Illustration:
When a farmer brands his livestock, it identifies ownership. In a far greater way, the Holy Spirit seals the believer as belonging to God. His presence in our lives is proof that we are His children.
THE HOLY SPIRIT GIVES SUPERNATURAL GIFTS TO EVERY BELIEVER
The Holy Spirit gives special gifts and abilities to believers for the purpose of building up the body of Christ. These gifts are not given to make us proud or important, but to help us serve one another and glorify God.
The gifts listed in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 include:
- Wisdom
- Knowledge
- Faith
- Healing
- Miracles
- Prophecy
- Discerning of spirits
- Speaking in tongues
- Interpretation of tongues
Similar lists are also found in Ephesians 4:7-13 and Romans 12:3-8. These passages mention gifts and callings such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers.
Simply put, the gifts of the Spirit are God enabling believers to do what He has called them to do.
Paul writes:
“For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.”
(Eph. 4:12)
He continues:
“Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God…”
(Eph. 4:13)
The purpose of spiritual gifts is not confusion or division, but maturity, unity, and strength within the church.
Illustration:
Just as the human body has many different parts working together, the church is made up of many believers with different gifts and abilities. The hand cannot do the work of the eye, and the eye cannot do the work of the foot. Yet every part is important and needed for the body to function properly.
A Word of Caution About Spiritual Gifts
The supernatural gifts of the Spirit have long been a subject of controversy among Christians. Sadly, disagreements over these gifts have sometimes divided churches and even families.
Some believers teach that certain gifts, such as speaking in tongues, interpretation of tongues, prophecy, healing, and miracles, ceased after the New Testament Scriptures were completed. Others believe all the gifts are still in operation today, just as they were in the early church.
While sincere believers may differ on these matters, we must be careful not to lose sight of what is most important.
Some Christians have become so focused on spiritual gifts that they have neglected the foundational truths of Scripture. In some cases, people have become more fascinated with the gifts themselves than with the God who gives them.
On the other hand, some believers, fearful of error or emotionalism, have reacted by resisting or quenching the work of the Holy Spirit altogether.
Both extremes are dangerous.
This is why the Apostle Paul placed 1 Corinthians 13, the great chapter on love, right in the middle of his teaching about spiritual gifts.
Paul wrote:
“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.”
(1 Cor. 13:1)
“And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge… and have not charity, I am nothing.”
(1 Cor. 13:2)
“And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.”
(1 Cor. 13:3)
No matter how gifted a person may be, without love their ministry becomes empty and powerless in God’s sight.
Illustration:
A lamp may be beautifully made, but if there is no oil, it gives no light. In the same way, spiritual gifts without Christlike love become empty religious activity.
THE HOLY SPIRIT SPEAKS DIRECTLY TO AND THROUGH BELIEVERS
The Bible makes it clear that the Holy Spirit speaks. He is not silent, distant, or inactive. Throughout Scripture, the Holy Spirit spoke directly to people, gave instruction, and guided believers in their service for God.
For example:
“Then the Spirit said unto Philip, go near, and join thyself to this chariot.”
(Acts 8:29)
Later, while the church was praying and fasting, the Holy Spirit spoke again:
“Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.”
(Acts 13:2)
The passage continues:
“So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost…”
(Acts 13:4)
Jesus also taught His followers that the Holy Spirit would help them speak during times of persecution:
“…whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.”
(Mark 13:11)
The Holy Spirit still guides, convicts, comforts, teaches, and directs believers today through the Word of God.
It is important, however, that we test every voice and impression by Scripture. The Holy Spirit will never lead a believer contrary to the Bible He Himself inspired.
Illustration:
Just as a shepherd calls and guides his sheep with his voice, the Holy Spirit leads God’s people. Sheep learn to recognize the shepherd’s voice by spending time near him. In the same way, believers learn to recognize the Spirit’s leading by spending time in God’s Word and prayer.
The more we walk with God, the more sensitive we become to the voice of the Holy Spirit.
THE HOLY SPIRIT ADDS A SECOND NATURE
Before we are born again, we have only one nature, the flesh nature. Our thoughts, decisions, and desires are controlled by self and the sinful nature we inherited from Adam.
After the new birth, however, something changes. The Holy Spirit comes to live within the believer, and we now have two opposing natures, the flesh and the Spirit.
This means that every day we must choose which nature we will follow.
Paul wrote:
“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”
(Gal. 5:16)
He continues:
“For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other…”
(Gal. 5:17)
The flesh and the Spirit are constantly pulling in opposite directions. The flesh desires sin, pride, anger, selfishness, and independence from God. The Spirit leads us toward holiness, humility, peace, and obedience.
If we choose to walk in the flesh, our lives will often resemble those who do not know Christ. But when we choose to walk in the Spirit, the life of Christ becomes visible through us.
Illustration:
It is much like having two dogs inside a fenced yard fighting for control. The one that becomes strongest is the one that gets fed the most. If we continually feed the flesh through sinful habits and worldly influences, the flesh grows stronger. But if we feed the Spirit through prayer, Scripture, worship, and obedience, the Spirit gains control of our lives.
Walking in the Spirit
Walking in the Spirit means living in harmony with God and others. It means surrendering our attitudes, words, and actions to the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
We must guard our hearts and tongues from:
- Bickering
- Bitterness
- Gossip
- Anger
- Division
- Pride
Instead, we learn to trust God, rest in Him, and allow Him to fight our battles.
Illustration:
A horse may be very powerful, but unless it is brought under control, it can cause great harm. In the same way, our flesh nature must be surrendered to the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
When a believer walks in the Spirit, certain fruit begins to appear in everyday life.
Paul wrote:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance…”
(Gal. 5:22-23)
These qualities are not something we can produce through human effort alone. They are the result of the Holy Spirit working within us.
The believer’s responsibility is to yield, trust, and abide in Christ. God’s responsibility is to produce the fruit.
Jesus said:
“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine…”
(John 15:4)
He continued:
“…for without me ye can do nothing.”
(John 15:5)
Illustration:
An apple tree does not struggle or strain to produce apples. Fruit naturally appears when the tree is healthy and connected to life-giving roots. In the same way, spiritual fruit appears naturally when a believer abides in Christ and walks in the Spirit.
WHAT THE AMISH TEACH
In the next few paragraphs, I would like to share some of my personal background and what I was taught concerning the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In many Christian circles, these three are referred to as the Trinity.
John wrote:
“For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.”
(1 John 5:7)
I was born and raised in an Old Order Amish community in Ohio. My parents faithfully took me to church every other Sunday, and it was there that I learned much about God the Father.
By the time I was fifteen years old, I knew a great deal about the Father. In my mind, He was strict, distant, and ruled from heaven with an iron hand. As far as I understood, He never smiled, and nothing escaped His notice. I was taught that if I disobeyed Him, He would punish me just as He punished the children of Israel when they turned away from Him.
We also learned about Jesus. We were taught that He was God’s only Son, that He died on the cross, was buried, and rose again the third day. Yet, in some ways, I was taught to view Jesus as being less important than the Father. Because of this, more attention was given to the Father than to the Son.
As for the Holy Spirit, He was rarely mentioned at home, during prayer times, or in church services. Honestly, the only clear memory I have of hearing about the Holy Spirit was on the day I was baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
As far as I knew, the Holy Spirit had little to do with everyday Christian life.
Like many Amish families, we read our morning and evening prayers from a prayer book handed down by our forefathers. The German words were often difficult to understand, and the prayers were directed almost entirely to the Father.
Sadly, both church services and family devotions often felt dry and lifeless to me. They had little effect on my heart.
It was not until later in life, after I was born of the Spirit, that I realized what had been missing.
The missing ingredient was the Holy Spirit and His power.
I did not know:
- That the Holy Spirit came to continue Christ’s ministry after Jesus returned to heaven.
- That the Holy Spirit plays an active role in the new birth.
- That the Holy Spirit dwells within every believer.
- That He empowers believers to overcome sin.
- That He leads believers into truth and fellowship with God.
It was only after I became a born again believer that I began to understand my desperate need to know who the Holy Spirit is and how deeply involved He is in the daily life of the Christian.
As I sought the Lord through prayer and Scripture, many passages began to open up to me in a fresh and powerful way.
I also came to understand that true prayer is far more than simply repeating written words from a prayer book. Real prayer is speaking honestly with God from the heart.
Paul wrote:
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…”
(Eph. 6:18)
Jude wrote:
“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost.”
(Jude 20)
Illustration:
A child who truly loves his father does not need someone else to hand him written words before speaking to him. Real communication flows naturally from the heart. In the same way, the Holy Spirit helps believers speak honestly and personally with God through prayer.
Real Christians, those who have truly been born of the Spirit, have been given divine and supernatural power from above. When you spend time around Spirit-filled believers, you can often sense the presence, peace, and power of God in their lives.
Consider the following words from Acts 4:
“And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.”
(Acts 4:31)
“And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul…”
(Acts 4:32)
“And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.”
(Acts 4:33)
The early church was not cold, lifeless, or powerless. The Holy Spirit moved among the believers in such a real and powerful way that lives were transformed, people were united, and the gospel spread boldly.
Illustration:
When a fire is truly burning, people nearby can feel its warmth. In the same way, when the Holy Spirit is actively working in a believer’s life, others will notice the warmth, love, boldness, and power of God flowing from that person.
Sadly, many church-going people today have abandoned the idea that anything like this could happen in our generation. And one reason it does not happen is because many no longer believe God will do it.
Jesus said:
“…According to your faith be it unto you.”
(Matt. 9:29)
In my opinion, there are at least two reasons why many churches in America have not experienced continued Holy Ghost power and revival.
- Fear of Misunderstanding
Some churches avoid speaking much about the Holy Spirit and His power because they fear being associated with false teachings or emotional extremes. They do not want others to think they are part of the “health, wealth, and prosperity” movement.
While caution is certainly wise, we must be careful not to ignore or silence truths clearly taught in Scripture.
Illustration:
A person may avoid drinking water because some wells are polluted, but refusing all water will eventually lead to death. In the same way, fear of spiritual error should not cause believers to reject the genuine work of the Holy Spirit.
- Dependence on Human Ability Instead of God
God has greatly blessed America with wealth, education, buildings, programs, and technology. Because of this, many churches have learned how to operate like businesses.
Too often we rely on:
- Money
- Organization
- Marketing
- Talent
- Human wisdom
instead of waiting on the Holy Spirit.
The danger is that we can build large ministries while lacking the true power and presence of God.
Illustration:
A tractor may look impressive sitting in the field, but without fuel it cannot move an inch. In the same way, churches may have beautiful buildings and many activities, but without the Holy Spirit there is no true spiritual power.
As we come to the end of this study on the Holy Spirit, let us consider the account found in Acts chapter 8, where a man named Simon tried to purchase spiritual power with money.
The Bible says:
“And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money.”
(Acts 8:18)
He said:
“Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.”
(Acts 8:19)
But Peter sharply rebuked him:
“Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.”
(Acts 8:20)
“Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.”
(Acts 8:21)
The power of the Holy Spirit cannot be bought, manufactured, organized, or worked up by human effort. It is the gift of God, given to humble and surrendered believers.
Pastor Jim Cymbala once said:
“Whatever God is doing in our world today, He is doing through the Holy Spirit. He has no other agent on this planet.”
PRAYER
Dear Lord, thank You for sending the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. Thank You for the many times He has comforted our hearts, led us into truth, protected us from evil, and empowered us for ministry. We stand in awe of Your goodness and grace.
My heartfelt prayer is that You would use this study to ignite a fire within the soul of every reader. Wake us from spiritual slumber and dead religion and send true Holy Ghost revival once again.
Help us to walk in the Spirit, live in obedience to Your Word, and bring glory to Jesus Christ in all we do.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
FINAL NOTE
If, after reading this booklet, you have experienced the new birth through faith in Jesus Christ, we would love to hear from you.
Please contact us by phone or mail. We not only want to rejoice with you but also provide Bible study materials that will help you grow in your walk with the Lord.
Extra, if you have room:
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW TO GO TO HEAVEN
First, You Need to Be Saved
The Bible teaches that every person is a sinner before God.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
(Rom. 3:23)
Sin separates us from a holy God and leaves us guilty before Him.
The Bible also tells us the penalty for sin:
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
(Rom. 6:23)
The word death here speaks not only of physical death, but also eternal separation from God in hell.
Illustration:
Just as a criminal must answer for breaking man’s law, every sinner must answer to God for breaking His law.
Second, You Cannot Save Yourself
Many people believe they can earn their way to heaven by being good, joining a church, giving money, or trying harder. But the Bible clearly teaches that salvation cannot be earned through human effort.
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us…”
(Titus 3:5)
No amount of good works can wash away sin. Salvation is a gift of God’s mercy and grace.
Illustration:
A dirty man cannot clean himself with muddy water. In the same way, sinful people cannot remove their own sin through human effort.
Third, Jesus Has Provided for Your Salvation
Because God loves us, He sent His Son Jesus Christ into the world to die for our sins.
Jesus took our punishment upon Himself at the cross, was buried, and rose again from the dead.
Jesus said:
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
(John 3:16)
God’s love was demonstrated at the cross. Jesus paid the debt we could never pay ourselves.
Illustration:
Imagine standing before a judge unable to pay a massive fine. Then someone steps forward and pays the entire debt for you. That is what Jesus did for sinners at the cross.
Fourth, You Must Personally Receive Jesus Christ
Knowing about Jesus is not enough. You must personally receive Him by faith.
The Bible says:
“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.”
(John 1:12)
Salvation is not inherited from parents, church membership, or religious tradition.
John continues:
“Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.”
(John 1:13)
The new birth comes from God.
Fifth, Now Is the Time to Be Saved
Many people plan to trust Christ “someday,” but the Bible warns us not to delay.
“…behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
(2 Cor. 6:2)
Tomorrow is not promised to any of us.
Illustration:
If your house were on fire, you would not wait until tomorrow to escape. In the same way, salvation is too important to postpone.
WHAT MUST YOU DO?
The Bible says:
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.”
(Rom. 10:9)
And again:
“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
(Rom. 10:13)
God promises salvation to those who repent of their sin and place their faith in Jesus Christ alone.
WILL YOU PRAY AND RECEIVE CHRIST TODAY?
Prayer itself does not save you. Jesus saves. But prayer is one way to express faith in Him from the heart.
If you sincerely desire to trust Christ as your Savior, you may pray something like this:
Dear God,
I know that I am a sinner and that my sin separates me from You. I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins and rose again from the dead so that I might have eternal life.
I now turn from trusting in myself and place my faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. I receive Him as my Lord and Savior.
Thank You for loving me and forgiving my sins. Please help me to live for You from this day forward.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT
If you have trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior, the Bible says you have passed from death unto life.
Now begin to:
- Read your Bible daily
- Pray regularly
- Fellowship with Bible-believing Christians
- Grow in your walk with the Lord
- Share your faith with others
God desires not only to save you, but also to help you grow in grace and truth through the power of the Holy Spirit.