Understanding the Transformative Power of the Holy Spirit
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, Church of Christ! Today, we are diving deep into understanding the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity. The Holy Spirit is co-equal with God the Father and God the Son, and though He is often listed last in the Trinitarian formula, this does not imply any form of inequality. The Holy Spirit is a person, not an impersonal force or mystical influence. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of the Holy Spirit, stating in John 16:7 that it is better for Him to go away so that the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, can come to us.
The Holy Spirit's role is crucial in our lives. He is the one who sanctifies us, transforming our behavior to be Christ-like. This process of sanctification is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. Ephesians 4:21-24 calls us to throw off our old sinful nature and let the Spirit renew our thoughts and attitudes, putting on a new nature created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.
Sanctification is essential for maintaining our salvation and access to God. While Jesus has justified us and given us access to the Father, it is the Holy Spirit who sanctifies us, helping us to maintain that access. This transformation is not something we can achieve on our own; it is the work of the Holy Spirit. Dr. Wayne Grudem describes being filled with the Holy Spirit as being filled with the immediate presence of God Himself, resulting in us feeling what God feels, desiring what God desires, and doing what God wants.
The Holy Spirit also teaches us all things and reminds us of what Jesus has taught us. John 14:25-26 tells us that the Holy Spirit will teach us everything and remind us of everything Jesus has told us. This is crucial for us to act, speak, and live like Jesus. Jesus gave us a new commandment to love each other as He has loved us, and this love is the identifier that we are His disciples.
Moreover, the Holy Spirit transforms our character. 2 Corinthians 3:18 says that the Lord, who is the Spirit, makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image. This transformation is evidenced by the fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are the evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.
However, our sinful nature is constantly at war with the Spirit. Galatians 5:17 describes this internal battle, but the Holy Spirit gives us the power and desire to do what pleases God. This transformation is not just about outward behavior but also about changing our inner personality to be more like Christ.
In conclusion, the Holy Spirit is essential for our sanctification and transformation. He teaches us, reminds us of Jesus' teachings, and transforms our character to be more like Christ. Let us open our hearts and minds to the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives today.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Holy Spirit is a Person and Co-Equal with the Father and the Son: The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force but a person with a will, intellect, and emotions. He is co-equal with God the Father and God the Son, and His role is crucial in our spiritual lives. Understanding the Holy Spirit as a person helps us to relate to Him more intimately and recognize His work in our lives. [02:21]
2. Sanctification is a Lifelong Journey: Sanctification is the process of being made holy and set apart for God. It is not a one-time event but a continuous journey that requires the work of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 4:21-24 calls us to throw off our old sinful nature and let the Spirit renew our thoughts and attitudes, putting on a new nature created to be like God. [32:30]
3. The Holy Spirit Teaches and Reminds Us of Jesus' Teachings: One of the primary roles of the Holy Spirit is to teach us all things and remind us of what Jesus has taught us. This is crucial for us to live like Jesus and follow His commandments. John 14:25-26 tells us that the Holy Spirit will teach us everything and remind us of everything Jesus has told us. [16:45]
4. The Fruits of the Spirit are Evidence of the Holy Spirit's Work: The transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit is evidenced by the fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are the evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives and serve as a guide for us to be Christ-like. [23:22]
5. The Holy Spirit Helps Us Overcome Our Sinful Nature: Our sinful nature is constantly at war with the Spirit, but the Holy Spirit gives us the power and desire to do what pleases God. Galatians 5:17 describes this internal battle, but the Holy Spirit equips us to overcome our sinful desires and transform our character to be more like Christ. [28:27]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [02:21] - The Holy Spirit is a Person
3. [08:48] - Distinction and Equality in the Trinity
4. [10:21] - The Necessity of the Holy Spirit
5. [11:58] - Sanctification and Salvation
6. [13:46] - Transformation by the Holy Spirit
7. [15:16] - Teaching and Reminding by the Holy Spirit
8. [16:45] - The New Commandment of Love
9. [18:30] - Small Acts of Love
10. [19:57] - Loving Your Neighbor
11. [21:42] - Fruits of the Spirit
12. [23:22] - Evidence of the Holy Spirit
13. [25:14] - Consistency in Christ-like Behavior
14. [28:27] - Overcoming Sinful Nature
15. [30:01] - Removing Sinful Behaviors
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. John 16:7 (NIV) - "But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you."
2. Ephesians 4:21-24 (NIV) - "When you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
3. Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) - "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
### Observation Questions
1. According to John 16:7, why did Jesus say it was better for Him to go away? ([10:21])
2. What does Ephesians 4:21-24 instruct us to do with our old sinful nature? ([32:30])
3. List the fruits of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. ([23:22])
4. How does the Holy Spirit help us maintain our salvation according to the sermon? ([11:58])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as the Advocate in John 16:7? How does this role impact our daily lives? ([10:21])
2. In Ephesians 4:21-24, what does it mean to "put on the new self"? How does this process of renewal happen? ([32:30])
3. How do the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 serve as evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives? ([23:22])
4. The sermon mentions that our sinful nature is constantly at war with the Spirit. How does the Holy Spirit equip us to overcome our sinful desires? ([28:27])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt the Holy Spirit guiding you. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? ([05:26])
2. Ephesians 4:21-24 talks about renewing our thoughts and attitudes. What specific thoughts or attitudes do you need to renew in your life, and how can you invite the Holy Spirit to help you? ([32:30])
3. Choose one fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23 that you feel you need to develop more in your life. What practical steps can you take this week to cultivate this fruit? ([23:22])
4. The sermon emphasized the importance of loving others as Jesus commanded. Think of a person in your life who is difficult to love. How can you show them Christ-like love this week? ([16:45])
5. The Holy Spirit helps us overcome our sinful nature. Identify a specific sinful behavior you struggle with. What steps can you take to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and transformation in this area? ([28:27])
6. How can you be more aware of the Holy Spirit's presence and guidance in your daily life? Share a specific practice or habit you can adopt to stay more attuned to the Holy Spirit. ([05:26])
7. Reflect on the sermon’s message about the Holy Spirit transforming our character. What is one area of your character that you feel needs transformation, and how can you cooperate with the Holy Spirit in this process? ([21:42])
Devotional
Day 1: The Holy Spirit is a Person and Co-Equal with the Father and the Son
The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force but a person with a will, intellect, and emotions. He is co-equal with God the Father and God the Son, and His role is crucial in our spiritual lives. Understanding the Holy Spirit as a person helps us to relate to Him more intimately and recognize His work in our lives. The Holy Spirit's personhood means that He can be grieved, He can love, and He can guide us in a personal way. This understanding transforms our relationship with Him from a mere acknowledgment of His existence to a deep, personal connection.
Recognizing the Holy Spirit as a person also means acknowledging His active role in our daily lives. He is not a distant deity but is present with us, guiding, comforting, and empowering us. This personal relationship with the Holy Spirit is essential for our spiritual growth and transformation. As we open our hearts to Him, we begin to experience His presence and power in a profound way, leading us to live lives that reflect the character of Christ.
[02:21]
Ephesians 4:30 (ESV): "And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption."
Reflection: How can you acknowledge the Holy Spirit's presence in your daily life and build a more personal relationship with Him today?
Day 2: Sanctification is a Lifelong Journey
Sanctification is the process of being made holy and set apart for God. It is not a one-time event but a continuous journey that requires the work of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 4:21-24 calls us to throw off our old sinful nature and let the Spirit renew our thoughts and attitudes, putting on a new nature created to be like God. This journey of sanctification involves daily surrender to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to transform our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors to align with God's will.
The process of sanctification is essential for maintaining our salvation and access to God. While Jesus has justified us and given us access to the Father, it is the Holy Spirit who sanctifies us, helping us to maintain that access. This transformation is not something we can achieve on our own; it is the work of the Holy Spirit. As we cooperate with Him, we experience a gradual but profound change in our character, becoming more like Christ in every aspect of our lives.
[32:30]
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 (ESV): "Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to surrender more fully to the Holy Spirit's work of sanctification?
Day 3: The Holy Spirit Teaches and Reminds Us of Jesus' Teachings
One of the primary roles of the Holy Spirit is to teach us all things and remind us of what Jesus has taught us. This is crucial for us to live like Jesus and follow His commandments. John 14:25-26 tells us that the Holy Spirit will teach us everything and remind us of everything Jesus has told us. This teaching and reminding work of the Holy Spirit is essential for our spiritual growth and maturity.
The Holy Spirit helps us to understand and apply the teachings of Jesus in our daily lives. He brings to our remembrance the words of Jesus, guiding us in our decisions and actions. This divine guidance ensures that we stay on the path of righteousness and live lives that reflect the love and truth of Christ. As we rely on the Holy Spirit's teaching, we gain deeper insights into God's Word and grow in our ability to live out our faith in practical ways.
[16:45]
1 John 2:27 (ESV): "But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him."
Reflection: How can you be more attentive to the Holy Spirit's teaching and reminders in your daily life?
Day 4: The Fruits of the Spirit are Evidence of the Holy Spirit's Work
The transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit is evidenced by the fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are the evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives and serve as a guide for us to be Christ-like. The presence of these fruits in our lives indicates that we are being transformed into the image of Christ.
The fruits of the Spirit are not just outward behaviors but reflect a deep inner change brought about by the Holy Spirit. As we yield to the Holy Spirit, He produces these fruits in us, making us more like Jesus in our character and actions. This transformation is a powerful testimony to the world of the reality of God's work in our lives. It also brings glory to God as others see His love and grace manifested through us.
[23:22]
Colossians 1:10 (ESV): "So as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."
Reflection: Which fruit of the Spirit do you feel is most lacking in your life, and how can you invite the Holy Spirit to cultivate it in you?
Day 5: The Holy Spirit Helps Us Overcome Our Sinful Nature
Our sinful nature is constantly at war with the Spirit, but the Holy Spirit gives us the power and desire to do what pleases God. Galatians 5:17 describes this internal battle, but the Holy Spirit equips us to overcome our sinful desires and transform our character to be more like Christ. This ongoing struggle requires us to rely on the Holy Spirit's strength and guidance to live victoriously over sin.
The Holy Spirit empowers us to resist temptation and choose righteousness. He gives us the strength to say no to sin and yes to God's will. This victory over our sinful nature is not achieved through our own efforts but through the power of the Holy Spirit working in us. As we depend on Him, we experience freedom from the bondage of sin and grow in our ability to live a holy and pleasing life before God.
[28:27]
Romans 8:13 (ESV): "For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live."
Reflection: What specific sinful behavior or habit do you need the Holy Spirit's help to overcome, and how can you actively seek His power to do so today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The Holy Spirit wants us to inherit the kingdom of God by transforming our behavior to be Christ-like. Jesus has come to give us salvation. That we have. He has removed the bondage that sin has over us. But to maintain that salvation and access to God, we have to be transformed to be Christ-like. And that's the work of the Holy Spirit. That's sanctification." [31:22]
2. "If we want to be more like Jesus, we need to act, speak, talk, walk, interact like Jesus. We just did a whole series on how to be like Jesus. You can go back to that series and learn all the ways that you can be like Jesus. So, how did Jesus act? What did Jesus say? What did Jesus teach? That reminder is the work of the Holy Spirit." [16:45]
3. "The love of Jesus strikes again. Or when I'm at Mariano's, and I have a height advantage, and I need to get the peas off the top shelf for someone. And then I start talking to him. And I said, do you want me to follow you around the store to get all the things that are high up on the shelves on your grocery list? And those conversations demonstrate the love of Jesus. It is those small interactions that show someone who Jesus is, that brings out the love of Jesus." [18:30]
4. "Jesus likens loving your neighbor as loving God. He says it in Matthew 22, 37. Jesus replied, you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important. Now, I wouldn't have thought that loving your neighbor would be equivalent to loving God, but Jesus thinks so. Love, he says, a second is equally important. Love your neighbor as yourself. So, if you love God and you love yourself, you have to love your neighbor." [19:57]
5. "The Holy Spirit transforms our outward behavior by transforming our inner personality. Second Corinthians 3 and 18 says, and the Lord, who is the Spirit, makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. can't reproduce the character of the Holy Spirit on your own. There's no New Year's resolution or good intentions or willpower that will make you more like Christ. It is the work of the Holy Spirit." [21:42]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Sanctification is not a one-time event. It is a lifelong. It is a lifelong journey. Salvation is continuous. The Bible says we need to be saved, but the Greek verb to be is being, is continuous. We have to continue to be saved. It's being saved. That's the work of the Holy Spirit." [32:30]
2. "For those of us that have the Holy Spirit at salvation, we need to understand that he is continuing to work in us to make us more like Christ." [33:35]
3. "The Holy Spirit teaches us all things and reminds us what Jesus has told us. John 14, 25, and 26 says, I am telling you these things now while I'm still with you, but when the Father sends the advocate as my representative, that is the Holy Spirit, he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you." [16:17]
4. "The fruits of the Spirit in your life is the evidence of the work of the Holy Spirit in your life. When you have these attributes, the Holy Spirit is working, this is our guide for us to be Christ-like. If you forget how to be like Christ, read the fruits of the Spirit." [23:22]
5. "Salvation comes through Jesus, but maintaining that salvation and transforming your behavior to be Christ-like is the work of the Holy Spirit." [15:16]
6. "The Holy Spirit is not a mystical force or an influence that God gives believers to make our day better or a good luck charm. We have to see the Holy Spirit as a person. So scripture refers to the Holy Spirit using personal pronouns. And what we get to see is that the Holy Spirit is not a it, but a he." [05:26]
7. "We also think that the Holy Spirit is lesser of the three persons of the Godhead because of the sequence of speech, Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, and the progress in which he's been revealed to us in the Bible. But rest assured, the Holy Spirit is God." [07:15]
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