From Infancy to Maturity: The Holy Spirit's Work

 

Summary

In reflecting on the words from John 3:30, "He must increase, but I must decrease," we delve into the profound transition from the baptism of John the Baptist to the baptism with the Holy Spirit. This passage highlights the pivotal shift from the preparatory work of John to the transformative work of Jesus Christ. John the Baptist, a forerunner to Christ, understood his role as temporary and preparatory, pointing towards the greater work of Jesus. His baptism with water was a symbol, a precursor to the baptism with the Holy Spirit, which Jesus would administer.

The baptism with the Holy Spirit is not merely a historical event but a living reality that transforms believers from spiritual infancy to maturity. It is the difference between being a child in faith and growing into a mature, assured, and fruitful Christian life. This transformation is marked by a deeper understanding of spiritual truths, a profound assurance of salvation, and a life filled with joy and satisfaction in Christ. The Holy Spirit's work in us is to glorify Christ, bringing us to a place where we find complete satisfaction in Him, leading to a life of joy and fruitfulness.

The baptism with the Holy Spirit empowers believers to become living witnesses of Christ, characterized by a life that overflows with spiritual vitality and draws others to the faith. This transformation is not about personal pride or achievement but about the increase of Christ's presence and work in our lives. As we decrease, allowing Christ to increase, we become conduits of His love and grace to a world in need.

Key Takeaways:

- Understanding and Maturity: The baptism with the Holy Spirit transitions believers from spiritual infancy to maturity, enhancing our understanding of spiritual truths and deepening our relationship with God. This growth is akin to moving from a child's limited understanding to an adult's comprehensive grasp of family and life. [22:27]

- Assurance and Certainty: The Holy Spirit provides believers with an unshakeable assurance of their salvation, transforming doubt into certainty. This assurance is a hallmark of spiritual maturity, as seen in the transformation of the apostles from confusion to boldness after Pentecost. [34:13]

- Satisfaction in Christ: The Holy Spirit reveals Christ as the complete satisfaction for every need, leading to a life of contentment and peace. This satisfaction is not temporary but a continual source of joy and fulfillment, as believers find all they need in Christ. [39:54]

- Joy and Gladness: A life filled with the Holy Spirit is marked by joy and gladness, transcending circumstances. This joy is a foretaste of eternal glory and a powerful testimony to the world of the transformative power of Christ. [43:55]

- Fruitfulness and Witness: The baptism with the Holy Spirit empowers believers to be fruitful and effective witnesses for Christ. This transformation makes believers a source of spiritual life and vitality, drawing others to the faith through their testimony and example. [47:26]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:12] - Introduction to John 3:30
- [00:32] - Context of John's Baptism
- [01:02] - John's Testimony of Christ
- [02:18] - Historical Significance of Pentecost
- [03:42] - The Meaning of Baptism with the Holy Spirit
- [05:07] - Contrast Between John's and Jesus' Baptism
- [06:49] - John as the Friend of the Bridegroom
- [08:10] - Jesus' Superiority and Divine Origin
- [10:15] - The Fullness of the Spirit in Christ
- [12:28] - John's Prophecy of Jesus' Baptism
- [15:16] - The Difference Between Child and Adult Faith
- [18:56] - Spiritual Maturity Through the Holy Spirit
- [22:27] - Understanding and Spiritual Growth
- [29:37] - Assurance and Certainty in Faith
- [39:54] - Satisfaction and Joy in Christ
- [47:26] - Fruitfulness and Witness in the Spirit
- [49:30] - Conclusion and Benediction

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- John 3:30
- Acts 2:1-4
- Romans 8:15-16

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Observation Questions:

1. What is the significance of John the Baptist's statement, "He must increase, but I must decrease," in the context of his ministry and the coming of Jesus? [06:49]

2. How does the sermon describe the difference between the baptism of John the Baptist and the baptism with the Holy Spirit? [05:07]

3. According to the sermon, what transformation did the apostles undergo after the baptism with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost? [28:00]

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in providing assurance and certainty of salvation, as discussed in the sermon? [34:13]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the transition from John's baptism to the baptism with the Holy Spirit illustrate the shift from spiritual infancy to maturity? [19:32]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the baptism with the Holy Spirit leads to a deeper satisfaction in Christ? [39:54]

3. How does the sermon explain the concept of joy and gladness as a result of being filled with the Holy Spirit? [43:55]

4. What does the sermon imply about the role of believers as witnesses for Christ after receiving the baptism with the Holy Spirit? [47:26]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own spiritual journey. In what areas do you feel you need to decrease so that Christ can increase in your life? [06:49]

2. The sermon discusses the assurance of salvation provided by the Holy Spirit. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of certainty in your faith this week? [34:13]

3. Consider a time when you felt spiritually immature. What steps can you take to grow into a more mature faith, as described in the sermon? [19:32]

4. The sermon highlights the joy and satisfaction found in Christ through the Holy Spirit. What practical steps can you take to experience this joy more fully in your daily life? [39:54]

5. How can you become a more effective witness for Christ in your community, as empowered by the Holy Spirit? Identify one specific action you can take this week. [47:26]

6. Think about a situation where you struggled to find satisfaction in Christ. What changes can you make to seek fulfillment in Him rather than in temporary things? [39:54]

7. Reflect on the role of the Holy Spirit in your life. How can you invite the Holy Spirit to work more powerfully in you to transform your character and actions? [47:26]

Devotional

Day 1: Spiritual Growth Through the Holy Spirit
The baptism with the Holy Spirit is a transformative process that moves believers from spiritual infancy to maturity. This growth is not just about acquiring knowledge but involves a deeper understanding of spiritual truths and a more profound relationship with God. As believers mature, they transition from a child's limited understanding to an adult's comprehensive grasp of faith and life. This maturity is marked by a greater capacity to discern God's will and a more intimate connection with Him. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in this process, guiding believers into all truth and helping them grow in their faith. [22:27]

Ephesians 4:14-15 (ESV): "So that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ."

Reflection: What specific area of your spiritual life do you feel needs growth and maturity? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to guide you in this area today?


Day 2: Assurance of Salvation Through the Spirit
The Holy Spirit provides believers with an unshakeable assurance of their salvation, transforming doubt into certainty. This assurance is a hallmark of spiritual maturity, as seen in the transformation of the apostles from confusion to boldness after Pentecost. The Spirit's presence in a believer's life is a constant reminder of God's promises and faithfulness. This assurance allows believers to live confidently, knowing that their salvation is secure in Christ. It also empowers them to face challenges with courage and conviction, rooted in the certainty of their faith. [34:13]

2 Timothy 1:12 (ESV): "Which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me."

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you struggle with doubt or uncertainty about your faith? How can you seek the Holy Spirit's assurance in these areas today?


Day 3: Finding Complete Satisfaction in Christ
The Holy Spirit reveals Christ as the complete satisfaction for every need, leading to a life of contentment and peace. This satisfaction is not temporary but a continual source of joy and fulfillment, as believers find all they need in Christ. The Spirit helps believers to see that true contentment comes not from external circumstances but from a deep relationship with Jesus. As believers grow in their understanding of Christ's sufficiency, they experience a profound sense of peace and joy that transcends life's challenges. [39:54]

Psalm 16:11 (ESV): "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are seeking satisfaction outside of Christ? How can you turn to Jesus to find true contentment and peace today?


Day 4: Joy and Gladness in the Spirit
A life filled with the Holy Spirit is marked by joy and gladness, transcending circumstances. This joy is a foretaste of eternal glory and a powerful testimony to the world of the transformative power of Christ. The Spirit's presence brings a deep sense of joy that is not dependent on external situations but is rooted in the believer's relationship with God. This joy serves as a witness to others, drawing them to the faith and demonstrating the reality of Christ's transformative work in the believer's life. [43:55]

Habakkuk 3:17-18 (ESV): "Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation."

Reflection: How can you cultivate a spirit of joy and gladness in your life, regardless of your current circumstances? What practical steps can you take to focus on the joy that comes from the Holy Spirit?


Day 5: Empowered to Witness Through the Spirit
The baptism with the Holy Spirit empowers believers to be fruitful and effective witnesses for Christ. This transformation makes believers a source of spiritual life and vitality, drawing others to the faith through their testimony and example. The Spirit equips believers with the boldness and wisdom needed to share the gospel and live out their faith in a way that attracts others to Christ. As believers allow the Spirit to work through them, they become conduits of God's love and grace to a world in need. [47:26]

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: Who in your life needs to hear about the love and grace of Christ? How can you rely on the Holy Spirit to empower you to be a bold and effective witness to them today?

Quotes


Now we are met together on which Sunday morning and I'm anxious to consider that portion of scripture that I've just read to you in the light of what this day reminds us of and what it commor we are not interested in dates as such but it is good I think that we should remind our El constantly of the great historical events on which our faith is based we haven't a philosophy here this isn't just a teaching this is a a record of History which also a record of the meaning of that history we are saved as Peter pointed out in that sermon he delivered on the day of Pentecost and as indeed the people had already heard these Apostles speak speaking in other tongues they were all dealing with the wonderful works of God and it's vital that we should always bear that in mind. [00:02:09]

What then is the message of this day to us well it is I say first and foremost a reminder of that great historical fact that great event there were these people 120 of them gathered together in an upper room and suddenly the Holy Ghost came down upon as is described in the second chapter of the book of The Acts of the Apostles now without believing that and knowing something of what that means we just cannot be Christian at all there never would have been a Christian church but for that and every Christian in some shape or form is related to that great and fundamental experience the baptism with the Holy Spirit. [00:03:11]

John says you're all wrong you mustn't you mustn't take this attitude you mustn't think that there's any rivalry involved you mustn't particularly think that I'm greater than he you mustn't be jealous on my behalf he must increase I must decrease now there are many reasons why John said that they're given here several of them and it's very important that we should bear them in mind John says that he is but the friend of the bridegroom but that Jesus of Nazareth is the bridegroom himself the bride is the church and there is the special relationship between the bride and the bridegroom the special relationship is the relationship between the church and the Lord Jesus Christ. [00:06:30]

He that Cometh From Above is above all he that is of the earth is Earthly and speakers of the Earth at my best says John I'm only a human I'm only a human servant I've got a message and it's a message that has been given to me by God but still I'm only a men I'm speaking as a human being I have this treasure as it were in Earth and vessel in an earth and vessel but he is entirely different he that Cometh From Heaven is above all he keeps on you notice repeating that and what he ha seen and heard that he testify then he goes on to say that this testimony is not being received. [00:09:01]

The spirit is given by measure unto men the spirit was upon John the Baptist but by measure but yet there is one says John who has received the spirit in his fullness not by measure not in a partial manner but in all his fullness now this is the key to the understanding of what happened on that day of Pentecost the Father loveth the Son and has given all things into his hand and one of the things that he gave to him eventually was the Holy Spirit in order that he might give him to the church and that is what happened on the day of Pentecost. [00:10:23]

It is possible for us to be Christians and yet only children it is possible for us to be truly saved in the Kingdom but still remain only children and what the baptism with the Holy Ghost does is to lift us from that kind of childhood condition into this adult condition now let's work out this a little this morning because it helps to illustrate the whole meaning of what John John had seen it it was given to John to see this I indeed baptize you with water he shall baptize you don't look to me look to him I'm simply here to lead you and to point you to him. [00:20:02]

The first big difference of course is in understanding that is the difference between the child and the adult the child is the child of the parents it's got this life from the parents in it but it doesn't understand it doesn't know and as it grows and develops it learn things and understand things about the family about the possibilities of life oh as it goes on and develops and matures it's amazed at the things it discovers and learns no more a child remember in the real Ultimate sense in those later years than at the beginning but in understanding in apprehension what a difference what a contrast. [00:21:42]

The baptism with the spirit is that which gives absolute certainty full Assurance of Salvation look at it in the case of these Apostles what a transformation Peter particularly the doubting denying Peter the man who denies his law to save his life to save his skin look look at his boldness on the day of Pentecost what's this this is nothing but absolute certainty full assurance and this is the Supreme object of the baptism with the holy spirit that is clearly made clear here in the book of Acts as it is everywhere else. [00:33:36]

The baptism with the holy spirit gives one great and glorious satisfaction you can be a Christian and yet your Christianity can be almost a task to you don't you know something about that condition God knows I've known it Christian yes believing saved in the kingdom and yet the whole thing was a task it was a problem there was a great deal of legalism still the devil could shake one when one fell into sin make one doubt the whole question of one's salvation there are many Christians to whom their Christianity seems to be a burden and a load and a task. [00:39:48]

The moment such a person is baptized with the Holy Ghost there is a complete sense of satisfaction what does the Holy Ghost do well the Holy Ghost as our lord said has been sent in order to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ that's his primary function that's his first object to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ and that is what he always does and the great test of whether a men's been baptized with the Holy Ghost or not is that he knows him and glorifies him in a way that he's never done before and finds complete satisfaction in him. [00:40:55]

When a man is baptized with the Holy Ghost he is filled with joy listen to the lyrical account we have given of these people here in the early days of the church at the very end of the second chapter of the book of Acts and they continuing daily with one Accord in the temple and breaking bread from house to house did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart praising God and having favor with all the people Peter talks about men and women ordinary Christian people scattered throughout various parts of the world he didn't know them he'd never met them they were quite unknown people. [00:43:55]

The baptism of the Holy Ghost makes a man a living witness to Christ he's such a transformed character that people can see the difference and are attracted by it and are amazed by it and come in order to try to discover the reason and the explanation of it my dear friends I've hurried through these things I just wanted to give you a glimpse of it he must increase I must decrease are you proud of your religion are you proud of the good life you're living believe me once you know something about this you'll hate all that that'll have to go decrease disappear this is the thing what he gives and he alone can give it. [00:47:26]

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Transcript
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