The Promise and Power of the Holy Spirit
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the topic of the Holy Spirit, focusing on its promise, comfort, and the life it brings. We began by acknowledging the diversity of Christian beliefs regarding the Holy Spirit, particularly the differences between Charismatic, Pentecostal, and Cessationist views. While some denominations emphasize supernatural gifts like speaking in tongues, others believe these gifts ceased after the apostolic age. Lutherans find themselves in the middle, recognizing that the Holy Spirit can manifest in various ways but always with the purpose of building up the body of Christ.
We explored the promise of the Holy Spirit through various scriptures, starting with the Old Testament. The prophet Joel foretold the outpouring of the Spirit on all people, a prophecy Peter referenced on the day of Pentecost. We also examined Jesus' words in John 7, where He spoke of the Spirit as living water flowing from believers' hearts, transforming their inner wastelands into places of promise.
The comforting role of the Holy Spirit was highlighted through John 14, where Jesus promised another Helper who would remind believers of His teachings and bring peace. This comfort is not dependent on our holiness or works but is a gift given through baptism and the Word.
We also discussed the life in the Spirit, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit is inseparable from the message of Jesus. The Spirit's role is to help us see and believe in Jesus, and any spiritual gift should serve to build up the body of Christ. We looked at various denominational views on baptism and the Holy Spirit, noting that while there are differences, the core belief remains that the Spirit brings faith and transformation.
Finally, we turned to 1 Corinthians 12 to understand the variety of spiritual gifts and their purpose. Paul emphasized that all believers have the Holy Spirit and that these gifts are meant for the common good, not for division or personal glory.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Promise of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit was promised not just in the New Testament but also in the Old Testament. The prophet Joel spoke of a time when the Spirit would be poured out on all people, a prophecy fulfilled on the day of Pentecost. This promise assures us that the Spirit is available to every generation, transforming our inner wastelands into places of promise. [09:01]
2. The Comforting Role of the Holy Spirit: Jesus promised another Helper, the Holy Spirit, who would remind us of His teachings and bring peace. This comfort is not dependent on our holiness or works but is a gift given through baptism and the Word. The Spirit's role is to bring to our remembrance all that Jesus has done, providing us with a holy and sacred peace. [28:04]
3. Life in the Spirit: The Holy Spirit is inseparable from the message of Jesus. The Spirit's primary role is to help us see and believe in Jesus, and any spiritual gift should serve to build up the body of Christ. This understanding helps us discern whether a spiritual experience is truly from God. [24:39]
4. Unity in Diversity of Gifts: 1 Corinthians 12 teaches that all believers have the Holy Spirit and that there are a variety of gifts given for the common good. These gifts are meant to build up the body of Christ, not to create division or personal glory. Every gift, whether it is teaching, healing, or speaking in tongues, is valuable and necessary for the church. [58:46]
5. Baptism and the Holy Spirit: Different denominations have varying views on the relationship between baptism and the Holy Spirit. While some see them as separate events, Lutherans believe that the Spirit arrives with the confession of faith and is inseparable from the Word. This understanding provides assurance that the Spirit is at work in our lives from the moment of baptism. [15:51]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:33] - Overview of The Lutheran Difference
[02:40] - Roadmap of Upcoming Topics
[04:18] - Charismatic vs. Cessationist Views
[06:34] - 1 Corinthians 12 and Spiritual Gifts
[07:21] - The Promise of the Spirit in Joel
[09:01] - The Spirit in the Old Testament
[10:59] - The Feast of Booths and the Spirit
[12:32] - Jesus and the Living Water
[14:31] - John the Baptist and the Spirit
[17:20] - The Apostles Waiting for the Spirit
[18:57] - Peter's Sermon on Pentecost
[20:38] - Hearing the Gospel in Your Heart Language
[24:39] - The Spirit and the Object of Faith
[28:04] - The Comforting Spirit in John 14
[30:39] - Life in the Spirit and Baptism
[34:54] - The Spirit and Cornelius
[38:19] - The Jerusalem Council
[48:54] - Voluntary Obedience and the Spirit
[53:16] - John MacArthur and Charismatic Movements
[58:46] - Unity in Diversity of Gifts
[59:35] - The Higher Gifts
[01:00:30] - Introduction to the Lord's Prayer
[01:01:00] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Joel 2:28-29: "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit."
2. John 14:16-17, 26: "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... 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."
3. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7: "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."
### Observation Questions
1. According to Joel 2:28-29, who will receive the outpouring of the Holy Spirit?
2. In John 14:16-17, what are the roles of the Holy Spirit as described by Jesus?
3. What does 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 say about the diversity of spiritual gifts and their purpose?
4. How does the sermon describe the Lutheran perspective on the manifestation of the Holy Spirit compared to Charismatic and Cessationist views? [05:41]
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does the prophecy in Joel 2:28-29 suggest about the inclusivity of the Holy Spirit's work across different groups of people?
2. How does Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit in John 14:16-17 provide comfort to believers, and what does it mean for the Spirit to dwell within us? [28:04]
3. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, why is it important that the variety of gifts are given for the common good, and how does this understanding help prevent division within the church?
4. How does the sermon explain the relationship between baptism and the Holy Spirit, particularly in the context of different denominational views? [15:51]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt the comfort of the Holy Spirit in a difficult situation. How did this experience strengthen your faith? [28:04]
2. The sermon mentioned that the Holy Spirit helps us see and believe in Jesus. How can you be more attentive to the Spirit's guidance in your daily life? [24:39]
3. Considering the variety of spiritual gifts mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12, what gift do you believe you have been given, and how can you use it to serve your church community? [58:46]
4. How can you foster unity within your church, especially when there are diverse views on the manifestation of the Holy Spirit? [05:41]
5. The sermon highlighted that the Holy Spirit's comfort is not dependent on our holiness or works. How does this truth impact your understanding of grace and your relationship with God? [28:04]
6. Think about the different ways the Holy Spirit has been described in the sermon. How can you better recognize and respond to the Spirit's work in your life and the lives of others? [24:39]
7. How can you support and encourage others in your small group to identify and use their spiritual gifts for the common good of the church? [58:46]
Devotional
Day 1: The Promise of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit was promised not just in the New Testament but also in the Old Testament. The prophet Joel spoke of a time when the Spirit would be poured out on all people, a prophecy fulfilled on the day of Pentecost. This promise assures us that the Spirit is available to every generation, transforming our inner wastelands into places of promise. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit is a testament to God's faithfulness and His desire to dwell within us, guiding and transforming us from within.
In the New Testament, Jesus reiterated this promise, describing the Holy Spirit as living water that would flow from believers' hearts. This living water signifies the life and renewal that the Holy Spirit brings, turning our spiritual dryness into fruitful and vibrant faith. The promise of the Holy Spirit is a reminder that we are never alone; God is always with us, working in and through us to fulfill His purposes. [09:01]
Joel 2:28-29 (ESV): "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit."
Reflection: Think of an area in your life that feels like a spiritual wasteland. How can you invite the Holy Spirit to transform this area into a place of promise and renewal today?
Day 2: The Comforting Role of the Holy Spirit
Jesus promised another Helper, the Holy Spirit, who would remind us of His teachings and bring peace. This comfort is not dependent on our holiness or works but is a gift given through baptism and the Word. The Spirit's role is to bring to our remembrance all that Jesus has done, providing us with a holy and sacred peace. This peace is not like the world's peace, which is often temporary and dependent on circumstances, but a deep, abiding peace that comes from knowing we are loved and cared for by God.
The Holy Spirit's comforting presence is a constant reminder of God's love and faithfulness. In times of trouble or uncertainty, we can rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us, remind us of God's promises, and fill us with His peace. This divine comfort is a precious gift that sustains us through life's challenges and helps us to remain steadfast in our faith. [28:04]
John 14:26-27 (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. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
Reflection: When was the last time you felt the peace of the Holy Spirit in a difficult situation? How can you seek the Holy Spirit's comfort and guidance in your current circumstances?
Day 3: Life in the Spirit
The Holy Spirit is inseparable from the message of Jesus. The Spirit's primary role is to help us see and believe in Jesus, and any spiritual gift should serve to build up the body of Christ. This understanding helps us discern whether a spiritual experience is truly from God. The Holy Spirit works in our lives to deepen our faith, transform our hearts, and empower us to live out the teachings of Jesus in our daily lives.
Life in the Spirit means living in a way that reflects the character and love of Jesus. It involves being attentive to the Spirit's leading, allowing Him to shape our thoughts, actions, and attitudes. As we grow in our relationship with the Holy Spirit, we become more attuned to His voice and more effective in our witness for Christ. The Spirit equips us with the gifts and strength we need to fulfill our God-given purpose and to serve others in love. [24:39]
Galatians 5:22-25 (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. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit."
Reflection: In what ways can you be more attentive to the Holy Spirit's leading in your daily life? How can you use your spiritual gifts to build up the body of Christ?
Day 4: Unity in Diversity of Gifts
1 Corinthians 12 teaches that all believers have the Holy Spirit and that there are a variety of gifts given for the common good. These gifts are meant to build up the body of Christ, not to create division or personal glory. Every gift, whether it is teaching, healing, or speaking in tongues, is valuable and necessary for the church. The diversity of gifts within the body of Christ reflects the creativity and wisdom of God, who equips each believer uniquely for His purposes.
Unity in diversity means recognizing and appreciating the different gifts and roles within the church. It involves working together in harmony, using our gifts to serve one another and to advance God's kingdom. When we embrace the diversity of gifts, we can experience the fullness of what God intends for His church, as each member contributes to the common good and the growth of the body of Christ. [58:46]
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 God given you? How can you use these gifts to serve others and contribute to the unity and growth of your church community?
Day 5: Baptism and the Holy Spirit
Different denominations have varying views on the relationship between baptism and the Holy Spirit. While some see them as separate events, Lutherans believe that the Spirit arrives with the confession of faith and is inseparable from the Word. This understanding provides assurance that the Spirit is at work in our lives from the moment of baptism. Baptism is not just a symbolic act but a means of grace through which the Holy Spirit is given to us, marking the beginning of our new life in Christ.
The Holy Spirit's presence in our lives from baptism onward is a source of continual renewal and transformation. As we grow in our faith, the Spirit works within us to conform us to the image of Christ, empowering us to live out our baptismal vows. This ongoing work of the Holy Spirit assures us that we are never alone in our spiritual journey; God is always with us, guiding and strengthening us every step of the way. [15:51]
Titus 3:5-6 (ESV): "He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior."
Reflection: Reflect on your baptism and the significance it holds for your faith journey. How can you be more aware of the Holy Spirit's work in your life since that moment?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The Holy Spirit comes with faith and is inseparable from the object of our faith Jesus. The Spirit brings us to know that we believe in Jesus. The Spirit is inseparably connected to the work of delivering people to Jesus and this is for me fundamental to the way the Lutheran Church talks about the Holy Spirit the Holy Spirit is always going to be about helping you see Jesus." [24:39] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The Holy Spirit received in baptism as a gift given to all of God's redeemed people his presence and fruits are not always obvious and the spirit arriving is not dependent on our holiness our works or our prayers he is poured out with the water and the word for the sake of Jesus." [25:53] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Holy Spirit arrives and what does he do he helps you remember me that's what Jesus says. This is the word of the Lord and Jesus Christ is the word of the Lord made flesh. You have a red letter Bible which tells you these are the words of Jesus. It's all the word of the Lord. It is all the inspired word of God and the Holy Spirit is at work delivering us to know that comfort." [29:33] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The Spirit brings us to know that we believe in Jesus. The Spirit is inseparably connected to the work of delivering people to Jesus and this is for me fundamental to the way the Lutheran Church talks about the Holy Spirit the Holy Spirit is always going to be about helping you see Jesus the Holy Spirit is never a gift that arrives. It is separate from the message of Jesus." [24:39] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The Holy Spirit is always going to be about helping you see Jesus the Holy Spirit is never a gift that arrives. It is separate from the message of Jesus. If there's any gift of the Spirit then that gift is always about building up the body of Christ and anywhere when you're trying to figure out how do I discern is this a spirit or not like maybe you're like I feel like the spirit is drawing me to this is. This is how you discern the spirit is it building up the body of Christ is it helping you or someone else see the object of our faith Jesus if it's not doing that then it's something else." [25:53] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The Spirit brings us to know that we believe in Jesus. The Spirit is inseparably connected to the work of delivering people to Jesus and this is for me fundamental to the way the Lutheran Church talks about the Holy Spirit the Holy Spirit is always going to be about helping you see Jesus the Holy Spirit is never a gift that arrives. It is separate from the message of Jesus. If there's any gift of the Spirit then that gift is always about building up the body of Christ and anywhere when you're trying to figure out how do I discern is this a spirit or not like maybe you're like I feel like the spirit is drawing me to this is. This is how you discern the spirit is it building up the body of Christ is it helping you or someone else see the object of our faith Jesus if it's not doing that then it's something else." [25:53] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The Holy Spirit received in baptism as a gift given to all of God's redeemed people his presence and fruits are not always obvious and the spirit arriving is not dependent on our holiness our works or our prayers he is poured out with the water and the word for the sake of Jesus. This line that the spirit is not dependent on our holiness. This is a reminder to me. That I cannot manufacture the arrival of the spirit." [25:53] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Holy Spirit arrives and what does he do he helps you remember me that's what Jesus says. This is the word of the Lord and Jesus Christ is the word of the Lord made flesh. You have a red letter Bible which tells you these are the words of Jesus. It's all the word of the Lord. It is all the inspired word of God and the Holy Spirit is at work delivering us to know that comfort." [29:33] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The Spirit brings us to know that we believe in Jesus. The Spirit is inseparably connected to the work of delivering people to Jesus and this is for me fundamental to the way the Lutheran Church talks about the Holy Spirit the Holy Spirit is always going to be about helping you see Jesus the Holy Spirit is never a gift that arrives. It is separate from the message of Jesus." [24:39] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The Holy Spirit is always going to be about helping you see Jesus the Holy Spirit is never a gift that arrives. It is separate from the message of Jesus. If there's any gift of the Spirit then that gift is always about building up the body of Christ and anywhere when you're trying to figure out how do I discern is this a spirit or not like maybe you're like I feel like the spirit is drawing me to this is. This is how you discern the spirit is it building up the body of Christ is it helping you or someone else see the object of our faith Jesus if it's not doing that then it's something else." [25:53] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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