Empowered by the Holy Spirit: A New Life
Summary
### Summary
In our ongoing series, "A New Life Under Construction," we are exploring the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Last week, we established that the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, fully God. This week, we delved into how the Holy Spirit affects our relationship with God and what He does in and through us. We began by examining Exodus 40, where the cloud and fire over the tabernacle symbolized God's presence with Israel. This was a precursor to the New Testament understanding of God dwelling within us through the Holy Spirit.
Jesus, in John 14, promises the Holy Spirit as a Helper who will be with us forever. This indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a permanent gift given at the moment of salvation, signifying God's constant presence in our lives. Unlike the Old Testament, where God's presence was temporary and selective, the New Testament reveals a permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers.
We also discussed the difference between the indwelling and the filling of the Holy Spirit. The indwelling is a one-time event at salvation, while the filling is an ongoing process necessary for Christian maturity and service. The filling of the Holy Spirit empowers us to live out our faith, resist sin, and serve God effectively. We looked at examples from Scripture, such as Paul's transformation and Stephen's martyrdom, to illustrate the power and necessity of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
However, we can grieve, lie to, and resist the Holy Spirit, which hinders His work in our lives. Understanding the Holy Spirit as a person with emotions helps us realize the gravity of these actions. The Holy Spirit's role is to teach, guide, convict, and continually regenerate us, leading us to live lives that reflect the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Holy Spirit's Permanent Indwelling: The Holy Spirit indwells believers permanently from the moment of salvation, signifying God's constant presence in our lives. This is a radical shift from the Old Testament, where God's presence was temporary and selective. Understanding this helps us appreciate the magnitude of God's commitment to us. [09:48]
2. Difference Between Indwelling and Filling: The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a one-time event at salvation, while the filling of the Holy Spirit is an ongoing process. The filling is essential for Christian maturity and service, empowering us to resist sin and live out our faith effectively. [23:09]
3. Grieving, Lying to, and Resisting the Holy Spirit: We can hinder the Holy Spirit's work in our lives by grieving, lying to, or resisting Him. Recognizing the Holy Spirit as a person with emotions helps us understand the seriousness of these actions and encourages us to live in obedience and truth. [32:26]
4. The Holy Spirit Empowers Christian Service: The filling of the Holy Spirit equips us for service, as seen in the transformation of Paul and the boldness of Stephen. This empowerment is not a one-time event but a continual process that enables us to fulfill our God-given mission. [27:07]
5. Living Out the Fruit of the Spirit: When we allow the Holy Spirit to fill and transform us, we exhibit the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This transformation radically impacts our lives and our witness to others. [43:10]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:39] - Introduction to the Holy Spirit
[02:30] - The Tabernacle and God's Presence
[05:31] - Jesus' Promise of the Holy Spirit
[08:53] - Indwelling vs. Filling of the Holy Spirit
[09:48] - Permanent Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
[13:02] - The Holy Spirit in Imperfect Believers
[15:28] - We Are the Temple of God
[18:38] - The Trinity and the Holy Spirit
[23:09] - Filling of the Holy Spirit
[27:07] - The Holy Spirit Empowers Service
[32:26] - Grieving, Lying to, and Resisting the Holy Spirit
[43:10] - Living Out the Fruit of the Spirit
[47:06] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Exodus 40:34-38: "Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. Throughout all their journeys, whenever the cloud was taken up from over the tabernacle, the sons of Israel would set out. But if the cloud was not taken up, then they did not set out until the day when it was taken up. For throughout all their journeys, the cloud of the Lord was on the tabernacle by day, and there was a fire in it by night in the sight of all the house of Israel."
2. John 14:16-17: "I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, that he may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see him or know him, but you know him because he abides with you and will be in you."
3. Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the significance of the cloud and fire over the tabernacle in Exodus 40? ([02:30])
2. According to John 14, what does Jesus promise about the Holy Spirit's role in the lives of believers? ([05:31])
3. What are the differences between the indwelling and the filling of the Holy Spirit as discussed in the sermon? ([08:53])
4. What are the characteristics of the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23? ([43:10])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit signify a shift from the Old Testament to the New Testament understanding of God's presence? ([09:48])
2. Why is the filling of the Holy Spirit considered essential for Christian maturity and service? ([23:09])
3. What does it mean to grieve, lie to, or resist the Holy Spirit, and how do these actions affect our relationship with God? ([32:26])
4. How does the presence of the Holy Spirit empower believers to live out the fruit of the Spirit in their daily lives? ([43:10])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life. How did it impact your actions and decisions? ([19:30])
2. The sermon mentioned that the Holy Spirit indwells imperfect believers. How does this truth encourage you in your walk with God, especially when you struggle with sin? ([13:02])
3. Identify one area in your life where you need the filling of the Holy Spirit for Christian maturity. What steps can you take this week to invite the Holy Spirit's guidance in that area? ([23:09])
4. Think of a specific instance where you might have grieved, lied to, or resisted the Holy Spirit. How can you seek forgiveness and restore that relationship? ([32:26])
5. Choose one aspect of the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control) to focus on this month. What specific action can you take to cultivate it in your interactions with others? ([43:10])
6. How can you be more aware of the Holy Spirit's presence and promptings in your daily life? Share a practical way you plan to listen and respond to the Holy Spirit this week. ([48:35])
7. Reflect on the story of Stephen's martyrdom. How can his example of being filled with the Holy Spirit and showing mercy inspire you to respond differently in challenging situations? ([39:16])
Devotional
Day 1: The Holy Spirit's Permanent Indwelling
The Holy Spirit indwells believers permanently from the moment of salvation, signifying God's constant presence in our lives. This is a radical shift from the Old Testament, where God's presence was temporary and selective. Understanding this helps us appreciate the magnitude of God's commitment to us. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a profound assurance that God is always with us, guiding and comforting us through every circumstance. This permanent indwelling is a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His people, ensuring that we are never alone.
John 14:16-17 (ESV): "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you."
Reflection: How does knowing that the Holy Spirit permanently indwells you change the way you approach your daily life and challenges?
Day 2: Difference Between Indwelling and Filling
The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a one-time event at salvation, while the filling of the Holy Spirit is an ongoing process. The filling is essential for Christian maturity and service, empowering us to resist sin and live out our faith effectively. The filling of the Holy Spirit is not about receiving more of the Spirit but about the Spirit having more of us. It involves yielding to His control and allowing Him to influence every aspect of our lives. This ongoing process is crucial for spiritual growth and effective ministry.
Ephesians 5:18 (ESV): "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to yield more to the Holy Spirit's control to experience His filling and empowerment?
Day 3: Grieving, Lying to, and Resisting the Holy Spirit
We can hinder the Holy Spirit's work in our lives by grieving, lying to, or resisting Him. Recognizing the Holy Spirit as a person with emotions helps us understand the seriousness of these actions and encourages us to live in obedience and truth. Grieving the Holy Spirit involves actions and attitudes that are contrary to His nature, such as sin and disobedience. Lying to the Holy Spirit, as seen in the story of Ananias and Sapphira, involves deceit and hypocrisy. Resisting the Holy Spirit is a refusal to follow His leading and guidance.
Ephesians 4:30 (ESV): "And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption."
Reflection: Are there any actions or attitudes in your life that might be grieving the Holy Spirit? How can you address them today?
Day 4: The Holy Spirit Empowers Christian Service
The filling of the Holy Spirit equips us for service, as seen in the transformation of Paul and the boldness of Stephen. This empowerment is not a one-time event but a continual process that enables us to fulfill our God-given mission. The Holy Spirit provides the strength, wisdom, and courage needed to serve God effectively. Whether it's sharing the gospel, serving in the church, or helping those in need, the Holy Spirit's empowerment is essential for impactful ministry.
Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Reflection: How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit's power in your current ministry or service opportunities?
Day 5: Living Out the Fruit of the Spirit
When we allow the Holy Spirit to fill and transform us, we exhibit the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This transformation radically impacts our lives and our witness to others. The fruit of the Spirit is the evidence of a life surrendered to the Holy Spirit. It reflects the character of Christ and serves as a powerful testimony to the world of God's transformative power.
Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV): "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."
Reflection: Which fruit of the Spirit do you find most challenging to exhibit? How can you ask the Holy Spirit to help you grow in this area today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The Holy Spirit indwells believers permanently. When Jesus states, I will ask the Father, and he will give you another helper, that he may be with you forever. Jesus is saying that the Holy Spirit will be with us permanently, always, forever. This is important that you see that the Holy Spirit, this isn't something that's temporary." (30 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Through the grace of God, the Father gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit. There are no conditions attached to this gift. We simply must have faith in Jesus Christ. That's it. Isn't that wonderful? You've got to walk with you. Oh, what have I got? I do. Just believe in Jesus Christ. That's your condition." (27 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Holy Spirit that fills us, that empowers us to serve our God. Too many times I've heard Christians say, yeah well I'm just not equipped that way. I can't do that. You don't understand. God dwells in you. The creator of this universe dwells in you. I don't have to have any skill sets. I just let God work through me. When you allow that incredible things happen." (45 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "When we allow the Holy Spirit into our life, when He fills us, it allows us to fulfill our creation, to do what we are designed to do. And one of those main things, quite honestly, is that love like Christ, for the first time in our life, we can not only receive love, but we can give it. And we can love like Christ." (33 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "How different would your life be if you recognized that the God that created this world, the God who died on a cross, the God who was resurrected now lives in you forever. And all He wants to do is to lead you into the person you were created to be and He will never abandon you. Just how different would your life be if you actually believed that?" (38 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is one of the gifts of salvation by which God's very presence in the person of the Spirit indwells the church corporately and Christians individually, drawing them into the life of the triune God. The Holy Spirit dwells in you. The Holy Spirit indwells believers permanently. When Jesus states, I will ask the Father, and he will give you another helper, that he may be with you forever. Jesus is saying that the Holy Spirit will be with us permanently, always, forever." (55 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Paul is saying that they have the Holy Spirit in them. But he is saying something else in this statement, that we are the temple. So in the Old Testament, I just mentioned, as I started this sermon, that Moses is talking about the tabernacle and how God will dwell in the tabernacle. Only the high priest is allowed into what will eventually become the Holy of Holies. That was the very back room in the temple. It's where God resided, and only the high priest of Israel could go in there. He would go in there under very specific situations. But in the New Testament, we come to understand that Christ is seated at the right hand of the Father. He now serves as your mediator. He is the one who stands between the Father and his children. So there's no need for a temple building. So we become the temple. This is what Paul is teaching us, and we're leading into this so that you understand there's no purpose. That's why we don't meet in a temple anymore. God is with us." (86 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The filling of the Holy Spirit is essential for Christian maturity. We need the Holy Spirit because we need to learn how not to sin, how not to give in to temptations. Can we just have a moment of honesty in the church? When we have people who are just recently saved and they're struggling, maybe it's an addiction. If you study addictions, you know you can't just break them like that. Often times it takes a great amount of effort and time for that person to break that addiction. We have to walk with people. This is the Holy Spirit walking with us to teach us how not to sin, how not to give in to those temptations, to start to live like Jesus Christ. This is the process of becoming like Christ. He is our example. And this process is called sanctification." (166 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Being filled with the Holy Spirit is not a one time event. Right? The indwelling of the Holy Spirit happens at salvation. That's a one time event. He comes and he dwells in us. But now that he's here, guess what? We need to be filled by the Holy Spirit. That's an ongoing process. Why? Well because we're human. The greatest journey that we will ever make is going from here to here. Some of you will fight this for decades. We're stubborn. We get afraid. We need the Holy Spirit to keep filling us, to empower us, to give us faith, to convince us, to do all the things that he does so that we will share the gospel of Jesus Christ and lead others towards an eternity in heaven." (56 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Paul is saying allow the Holy Spirit in, allow Him to transform your heart and radical things will happen. If we learn how to do all these things as well as Christ did, how radically different do you think your life would be? How different would your life be to give love like Christ? Or maybe just to receive love for the first time in your life? How different would your life be if you had peace in your life? That's a big one in our culture right now. Do you have peace? Do you fret over everything that's going on in the world? Or do you have peace? How different would your life be if you had patience? If you were kind? If you did good things? If you lived by your faith? If you were gentle to those that needed it? Or you had the self control to rule over your sins instead of them ruling over you?" (80 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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