Embracing the Holy Spirit: Our Divine Helper
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the profound topic of the Holy Spirit, exploring its role and significance in our lives as believers. We began by acknowledging the various activities and events happening within our church community, such as the parents' night out, baby shower, and the ladies' conference. We also took a moment to pray for those in need, particularly focusing on Katie and her family, who have been facing significant health challenges.
Transitioning into the core of our discussion, we examined John 14:15-17 and 25-26, where Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit to His disciples. This passage reassures us that even though Jesus would no longer be physically present, the Holy Spirit would be with us forever, guiding, teaching, and comforting us. The Holy Spirit is described as a helper, advocate, comforter, counselor, and teacher, emphasizing its multifaceted role in our spiritual journey.
We also touched upon the recent Southern Baptist Convention, highlighting the commissioning of 83 missionaries and discussing some of the resolutions and amendments that were brought up. This served as a reminder of the broader context in which we operate as a church and the importance of staying connected and informed about our larger faith community.
The Holy Spirit, as we discussed, is not just a force but a person with whom we can have a relationship. It is the Holy Spirit that convicts us of sin, guides us into all truth, and empowers us for service. We emphasized that every believer has the Holy Spirit within them from the moment of salvation, and it is our responsibility to remain open and receptive to its leading.
In conclusion, we were reminded that the Holy Spirit is our greatest yet often underutilized resource. By embracing the Holy Spirit, we can experience a deeper, more fulfilling walk with God, equipped for every good work He has prepared for us.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Holy Spirit as Our Helper and Advocate: The Holy Spirit is described as a helper, advocate, comforter, counselor, and teacher. This multifaceted role ensures that we are never alone, especially in times of crisis. The Holy Spirit intercedes for us, providing comfort and guidance, and reminding us of Jesus' teachings. [45:17]
2. The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit: Upon accepting Christ, every believer receives the Holy Spirit. This indwelling is permanent and seals us until the day of redemption. It is not about needing more of the Holy Spirit but about allowing the Holy Spirit to have more of us, removing any barriers that hinder its work in our lives. [47:02]
3. The Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth: The Holy Spirit is the spirit of truth, guiding us into all truth and helping us understand the Word of God. It teaches us about God's character and brings to our remembrance the teachings of Jesus, ensuring that we remain grounded in our faith. [49:50]
4. The Holy Spirit's Role in Conviction and Comfort: The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, righteousness, and judgment, leading us to repentance and a deeper relationship with God. It also comforts us in times of distress, reminding us of God's presence and promises, and providing the strength we need to persevere. [51:03]
5. Empowerment for Service: The Holy Spirit empowers us for worship, evangelism, and service. It bestows spiritual gifts upon us, cultivates Christian character, and equips us to fulfill God's purposes. By embracing the Holy Spirit, we can effectively serve God and His church, making a significant impact in our communities. [58:41]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[05:50] - Church Announcements
[28:55] - Worship and Prayer for Katie
[35:18] - Introduction to the Holy Spirit
[36:35] - Southern Baptist Convention Highlights
[42:35] - The Holy Spirit: Our Greatest Resource
[43:59] - John 14:15-17, 25-26 Reading
[45:17] - The Holy Spirit as Helper and Advocate
[47:02] - The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
[49:50] - The Spirit of Truth
[51:03] - Conviction and Comfort
[58:41] - Empowerment for Service
[01:00:57] - Assurance and Encouragement
[01:03:14] - Invitation and Closing Prayer
[01:08:14] - Introduction of New Members
[01:09:03] - Final Remarks and Dismissal
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- John 14:15-17, 25-26
#### Observation Questions
1. According to John 14:15-17, what does Jesus promise to His disciples regarding the Holy Spirit?
2. In John 14:25-26, what specific roles does Jesus say the Holy Spirit will fulfill for the disciples?
3. How does the sermon describe the Holy Spirit's role as a helper and advocate? ([45:17])
4. What recent event in the Southern Baptist Convention was highlighted in the sermon, and why was it significant? ([36:35])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean for the Holy Spirit to be an "advocate" and "comforter" in the context of John 14:16 and the sermon? ([45:17])
2. How does the indwelling of the Holy Spirit from the moment of salvation impact a believer's daily life, according to the sermon? ([47:02])
3. The sermon mentions that the Holy Spirit guides us into all truth. How does this guidance manifest in a believer's understanding of the Bible and God's character? ([49:50])
4. Reflecting on the sermon, how does the Holy Spirit empower believers for service and what are some examples given? ([58:41])
#### Application Questions
1. The sermon emphasized the Holy Spirit as our helper and advocate. Can you recall a time when you felt the Holy Spirit's guidance or comfort in a difficult situation? How did it impact you? ([45:17])
2. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is described as a permanent seal. What barriers might be hindering the Holy Spirit's work in your life, and how can you address them? ([47:02])
3. The Holy Spirit is called the spirit of truth. How can you cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit to better understand and remember the teachings of Jesus? ([49:50])
4. The sermon mentioned the Holy Spirit's role in convicting us of sin and providing comfort. How can you be more receptive to the Holy Spirit's conviction and comfort in your daily walk with God? ([51:03])
5. Reflecting on the empowerment for service by the Holy Spirit, what specific spiritual gifts do you believe you have, and how can you use them more effectively in your church and community? ([58:41])
6. The sermon highlighted the commissioning of missionaries at the Southern Baptist Convention. How can you support or participate in missions, either locally or globally, through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit? ([36:35])
7. The Holy Spirit is described as our greatest yet often underutilized resource. What steps can you take this week to be more open and receptive to the Holy Spirit's leading in your life? ([42:35])
Devotional
Day 1: The Holy Spirit as Our Helper and Advocate
The Holy Spirit is described as a helper, advocate, comforter, counselor, and teacher. This multifaceted role ensures that we are never alone, especially in times of crisis. The Holy Spirit intercedes for us, providing comfort and guidance, and reminding us of Jesus' teachings. [45:17]
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the life of a believer, acting as a helper and advocate. This means that in moments of difficulty, confusion, or distress, we are not left to navigate these challenges on our own. The Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf, offering comfort and guidance. It reminds us of the teachings of Jesus, ensuring that we remain grounded in our faith and aligned with God's will. This divine presence is a constant companion, providing the support we need to persevere through life's trials.
Moreover, the Holy Spirit's role as a counselor and teacher means that it actively participates in our spiritual growth. It helps us understand the deeper truths of God's Word and apply them to our lives. By being open to the Holy Spirit's guidance, we can experience a more profound and fulfilling relationship with God, knowing that we are never alone in our journey of faith.
John 14:26 (ESV): "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you."
Reflection: Think of a recent challenge you faced. How did you seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and comfort during that time? How can you be more open to the Holy Spirit's help in your daily life?
Day 2: The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
Upon accepting Christ, every believer receives the Holy Spirit. This indwelling is permanent and seals us until the day of redemption. It is not about needing more of the Holy Spirit but about allowing the Holy Spirit to have more of us, removing any barriers that hinder its work in our lives. [47:02]
The moment we accept Christ as our Savior, the Holy Spirit takes residence within us. This indwelling is a permanent seal, marking us as God's own until the day of redemption. It signifies that we are never without God's presence and guidance. However, the challenge lies not in acquiring more of the Holy Spirit but in allowing the Holy Spirit to have more of us. This means surrendering our will, desires, and barriers that hinder the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.
By removing these barriers, we create space for the Holy Spirit to operate fully within us, leading us into a deeper relationship with God. This process involves continual self-examination and a willingness to let go of anything that obstructs the Holy Spirit's influence. As we do so, we experience a more vibrant and dynamic spiritual life, empowered to fulfill God's purposes.
Ephesians 1:13-14 (ESV): "In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory."
Reflection: What barriers in your life might be hindering the Holy Spirit's work? How can you actively remove these barriers to allow the Holy Spirit to have more influence in your daily walk with God?
Day 3: The Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth
The Holy Spirit is the spirit of truth, guiding us into all truth and helping us understand the Word of God. It teaches us about God's character and brings to our remembrance the teachings of Jesus, ensuring that we remain grounded in our faith. [49:50]
The Holy Spirit is often referred to as the Spirit of Truth, a title that underscores its role in guiding believers into all truth. This guidance is essential for understanding the Word of God and applying it to our lives. The Holy Spirit illuminates the Scriptures, revealing the character of God and the teachings of Jesus. This divine insight ensures that we remain grounded in our faith, even when faced with conflicting messages from the world around us.
By relying on the Holy Spirit, we can discern truth from falsehood and make decisions that align with God's will. The Holy Spirit also brings to our remembrance the teachings of Jesus, helping us to live out our faith in practical ways. This ongoing relationship with the Spirit of Truth is vital for spiritual growth and maturity, enabling us to navigate life's complexities with wisdom and discernment.
John 16:13 (ESV): "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's guidance to discern truth? How can you cultivate a deeper relationship with the Spirit of Truth to better understand God's Word and character?
Day 4: The Holy Spirit's Role in Conviction and Comfort
The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, righteousness, and judgment, leading us to repentance and a deeper relationship with God. It also comforts us in times of distress, reminding us of God's presence and promises, and providing the strength we need to persevere. [51:03]
One of the essential roles of the Holy Spirit is to convict us of sin, righteousness, and judgment. This conviction is not meant to condemn but to lead us to repentance and a deeper relationship with God. By revealing areas in our lives that need correction, the Holy Spirit helps us align more closely with God's will. This process of conviction is a vital aspect of spiritual growth, fostering humility and dependence on God's grace.
In addition to conviction, the Holy Spirit provides comfort in times of distress. It reminds us of God's presence and promises, offering the strength we need to persevere through difficult circumstances. This dual role of conviction and comfort ensures that we are continually growing in our faith while also experiencing God's peace and assurance. By embracing the Holy Spirit's work in these areas, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence and hope.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (ESV): "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt convicted by the Holy Spirit. How did this conviction lead to positive change in your life? How can you seek the Holy Spirit's comfort in your current struggles?
Day 5: Empowerment for Service
The Holy Spirit empowers us for worship, evangelism, and service. It bestows spiritual gifts upon us, cultivates Christian character, and equips us to fulfill God's purposes. By embracing the Holy Spirit, we can effectively serve God and His church, making a significant impact in our communities. [58:41]
The Holy Spirit is not only a source of guidance and comfort but also a powerful enabler for service. It empowers believers for worship, evangelism, and various forms of ministry. By bestowing spiritual gifts, the Holy Spirit equips us to fulfill God's purposes and make a significant impact in our communities. These gifts are diverse, ranging from teaching and leadership to acts of mercy and hospitality, each contributing to the edification of the church.
In addition to spiritual gifts, the Holy Spirit cultivates Christian character within us, producing the fruit of the Spirit such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This transformation enables us to serve God and others more effectively, reflecting Christ's love in all that we do. By embracing the Holy Spirit's empowerment, we can fulfill our calling and contribute to the growth and health of the church.
1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (ESV): "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good."
Reflection: What spiritual gifts has the Holy Spirit bestowed upon you? How can you use these gifts to serve God and your community more effectively? What steps can you take to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in your daily life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "There is nothing perhaps more overwhelming than to be going through a time of crisis and to feel like you are alone. Now you can be not alone and have nobody around you. By feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit, by feeling the love that people are sending your way, feeling the prayers that people are offering on your behalf, absolutely. And sometimes you can even feel all alone in a room of a lot of people. But there is nothing, I don't think, any more overwhelming than the feeling of being in a difficult situation and feeling like you're alone. The Holy Spirit has given us promise that we never have to experience that. We never have to really feel that." [46:04] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If you're a child of God, if you receive Christ as your Savior, if you're a follower of Christ, you have all of the Holy Spirit in you that you need. It's not just doled out and, okay, well he needs some more today. Sometimes we feel that movement a little bit more. There's more activity, but we all have the Holy Spirit within us. What sometimes happens though is because of our own agendas, because of our own bitterness, because of our own lack of forgiveness. Because of our own attitude, sometimes we kind of squash the movement of the Holy Spirit in our life. It doesn't mean the Holy Spirit leaves, it just doesn't have the full freedom to work." [47:02] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Holy Spirit isn't just reactional, the Holy Spirit is intentional. Holy Spirit woos us, the Holy Spirit draws us, the Holy Spirit convicts us, the Holy Spirit protects us and teaches us. I can remember back in 1982 when I was wrestling with coming to know Christ, I can remember almost visualizing where I was standing and walking at the moment when I came to the realization that the Holy Spirit had revealed Himself to me and was telling me, I desire a relationship with you." [51:57] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Children of God, I want you to leave here today with an assurance that no matter how dry or dusty your life feels right now. If you know Jesus, you have the power of God. You have the Holy Spirit in you. He wants to do an incredible work in and through you. He's doing that work now. He is always working. Sometimes we just have to maybe just take a pause and just say, okay, God. I'm just going to stop here for a little while. And wait until I hear from you." [59:54] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have, church. We have everything we need to accomplish what God has intended for us to accomplish. And he will make that happen through the power, presence, the work, the knowledge, and the personality of the Holy Spirit in and through you. It looks different on different people. Some of us are more outgoing. Some of us are a little bit more introverted. Some of us have skills in different areas. Holy Spirit uses all those things for the body." [01:00:57] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "We are working our way through these foundations of our faith. We talked about, in our beginning session, we talked about the doctrine of the scriptures, how important those are, God's word. We talked about God the Father. We talked about Jesus the Son last week. And today we're talking about the Holy Spirit under the title, Who is the Holy Spirit?" [35:18] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I believe that it's possible that the Holy Spirit may be our greatest. Yet most underutilized resource at our disposal. We all have been given the indwelling of the Holy Spirit upon our conversion experience. And yet sometimes it gets misapplied within the church as a whole. Some people use the term Holy Spirit as if it's some sort of force that we can throw around and place wherever we want to place it. But the Holy Spirit is the third force. The third person of the Trinity, God, the Father, God, the Son, God, the Holy Spirit, and it's part of these fundamental doctrines. We want to look at this and I want us to unveil a little bit today of who is the Holy Spirit, who is the Holy Spirit." [42:35] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Our text today describes the Holy Spirit in two different ways. Describes the Holy Spirit, first of all, as a helper. We see that in verse 16, and then again in verse 26, comes from the Greek word parakletos, which also can mean advocate, comforter, counselor, teacher. I tell people a lot now when they have a loved one in the hospital, that everybody that's in the hospital with anything significant going on at all, you need to make sure that you have an advocate. Because sometimes it just needs to come from someone else that says, hey, this is what she or he is experiencing. I know that that can be very helpful at times." [48:57] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The Holy Spirit is not a force that we can throw around. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. And because He's a person, He can be grieved, can rejoice and has great levels of personality. One of my heroes of the faith and maybe for you too if you have gone through the study experiencing God is a man, Henry Blackaby. His study experiencing God revolutionized my Christian walk back in the early 90s. And he has a statement that's one of his realities of experiencing God that says this, God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the Bible. Through prayer, through circumstances and the church to reveal Himself, His purposes and His ways." [51:03] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The Holy Spirit is our exalter. He's the exalter. He exalts Christ. The Holy Spirit is always lifting Christ up. The Holy Spirit is always pointing us to Christ. The Holy Spirit always has Christ as the goal. Number four, the Holy Spirit is persuader. Persuader. Persuader. He is the best man of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment is what the Baptist Faith and Message says. He is our persuader. He is the one that brings those things to our hearts and mind, reminds us of our sin and our need to lay those things before Him, and also gives us the hope that we can lay our sin before our Father." [54:38] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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