Listen, if the devil is fighting you every week from going to church and he is fighting you as you are walking in church, and he is fighting you in church, all the way until you walk out of church to keep you out of church... well, then you are doing something right... see, satan does not want you there for a reason.... so, stand your ground... do not let that situation prevent you from going and worshipping the Lord with the highest honor and praise He so rightly deserves... walk in church with your head held high... get anything under the blood that needs to be under the blood... focus on the Lord alone, and let Him take care of the rest... the devil is running out of time and he will use any and I mean any seed he can to try to sow discord among the brethren, but it is up to us and our walk with Christ whether we are gonna allow that seed to take root and grow... or send that seed of discord and the devil back to hell where they belong!!
November 28, 2017
November 22, 2017
God Won't Let You Quit!
Satan will use hurtful experiences you endured as a child to suppress who you are really called to be. The enemy knows that if he could kick you when you are down, use mean-spirited attackers to devalue what you had, and beat it out of you so-to-speak, you would not want to shine or soar for Christ. You would be a shadow-dweller, on the sidelines of life, observing everyone else, all for the preservation of your safety.
I would be that person had it not been for God rescuing me from myself and refusing to let me quit. So, how did He get me out of my fearful state of being? He lit a fire inside me, similar to what the Prophet Jeremiah spoke of in the book of Jeremiah, chapter 20:9. I love that passage of scripture, because it shows the man of God weary of sharing the Lord’s message. It seemed like no one was listening to him, even though he was doing exactly what God told him to do. Jeremiah wasn’t seeing any results and this frustrated him to no end, to the extent that he said he regretted that God even called him. This great man of God, at one point, became resolved that he would no longer speak the word of God. He didn’t want that life anymore. But you know what changed his mind and kept him going after all? The latter half of verse 9 says, “But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay."
Just as I mentioned previously, God lit a fire in Jeremiah's soul that he could not smother. It compelled him to go on. He was destined to live out his purpose. I am destined to live out my purpose. You are destined to live out yours as well. That doesn’t mean it will be easy all the time, or that you will even want to do it. But at the very moment when you feel like giving up, God will reignite that fire within you to give the burning desire necessary to keep on keeping on. This word today is one of God’s ways of pushing you. He is telling you to keep on going. He sees you when you are crying, hurting, frustrated, and broken. And yet, God won’t let you quit. Your destiny is too important. He won’t let you give up on life, even when you feel what He has appointed you to do is smothering you. Your breathing might feel shallow, labored and difficult, but God won’t let you suffocate. He has anointed you.
There are people in this world you are assigned to. You are called and purposed to minister to them. No one else can reach them like you can. God has given you unique qualities, attributes, ideas, and ideals that make you better suited for the job than anyone else. So release your inhibitions, worries, and protests, and go on and shine for His glory. Don’t let anyone or anything—including yourself— rob you of destiny. You see, when you shine, which is ultimately God shining through you, others are drawn to you. It is not because of who you are or what you have done, but because the hand of God rests upon your life. The anointing of the Holy Ghost empowers you to boldly walk in your calling and fill a void in the lives of individuals that need to see the God in you. That is why the enemy would love nothing more than to see you give up; that way he could wipe the earth clean of your influence and blot out the purpose for which you were created, by convincing you to throw up your hands and say, “I’m done with this.”
But no, you are not done and God is not finished with you yet. As Philippians 1:6 says, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ". Listen, if you trust God for His wisdom and guidance every step of the way, He will lead you on the road that leads to purpose. God won't let you quit.
March forward with God!
Some people in church come in like they are the saints go dragging in! Stop that! Don't you know the song says when the saints go MARCHING in! March forward in God's forgiveness, grace, mercy, love, healing, saving, delivering, restoration, sanctification, and power of the Holy Ghost! All of that is stronger than any opposition you face from the enemy! When you take a stand for God, your family, your church, or your pastor in the middle of adversity, the Lord will truly bless you for it!
November 21, 2017
Romans 6:6!
Romans 6:6 (NIV) "For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin." * The verse regarding 666: This is a revelation God gave me back on 1-10-2013, at around 2:40 am. I am sharing it years later on this blog, because someone is looking for a similar answer/revelation from God. For a month or so back in late 2012s, I was seeing "666" everyday in the strangest places. And every time I saw that number, satan would begin to attack me with lies and trying to condemn me of past sins I've longed been delivered from. When I would see it, I would get that eerie bad feeling and sometimes be overcome and gripped with fear, because we know this to be the mark of the beast. I started praying to God about this situation, and He told me to go to the New Testament, 6th Book, 6th Chapter, 6th Verse... which is Romans 6:6 "We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ, so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin!" ~ An instant peace came over me, now when I see that #, I quote the scripture before satan has a chance to attack my mind. I'm free from past guilt and sins, and I'll never be bound or doomed by this # again, for I am saved and have the knowledge I need to not be manipulated by it.
My Evangelistic Ministry!
Ephesians 4:11-13 "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." (KJV)
Romans Chapters 6, 7, 8 - [God expects us to grow up. God expects us to move forward. Just because we're called doesn't mean we know the plan. I have to continually submit to God in learning to share His plan. I stand before you with the desire to be a Christian 1st, and an Evangelist 2nd. Don't look to me as a savior, look to Jesus as a Savior. God has shown me through Romans Chapters 6, 7 and 8 how to move from condemnation into freedom, and you get from one point to the next one through the Word of God. He accomplished freedom on the cross of Calvary! You've got to walk in the wisdom and knowledge of what Jesus Christ did for us, not just on the cross, but on the way to the cross. That is where freedom lies! I've got to preach the concepts of what is written in Romans 6, 7, and 8 in order for people to move out of oppression into victory.]
My Mission: The Lord provided me a healing testimony and ministry, as an avenue for me to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to help others go from condemnation (oppression) into freedom (victory) through the Word of God (Bible). This ministry does not stop at the pulpit. Healing is not just physical. God has taken me through a process of healing in the areas of emotional, social, spiritual, psychological, and financial, in addition to physical. I want to let people know that God is still in the business of saving, healing, restoring and delivering. I want to help those struggling by encouraging him/her to break free from those chains that the enemy uses to bind them up. I want to be a prayer intercessor for those who are hurting and lost, in need of a Savior and Healer. I am just the willing vessel. This is God's ministry. He is just working in and through me to advance His Kingdom.
My Motto: I only want to see through the eyes of Jesus, love through the heart of Jesus, and feel through the Spirit of Jesus. I'll pray for you and you pray for me, to God be the glory, it's all about Him and it's not about me!
My Plan of Action: To Preach, To Teach, To Pray, To Encourage ~ Travel to other churches to preach - conferences - revivals ~ Leading Home Bible Studies ~ Visitation Ministry - Hospitals, Shut-ins, Teaching Sunday School classes at the Nursing Home - Phone Calls ~ Social Network Ministry
Benefits of Prayer and Fasting!
Benefits of Prayer and Fasting ~ Isaiah 58: 6-12 ~ 6 "Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh? 8 Then your light shall break forth like the morning, your healing shall spring forth speedily, and your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. 9 Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, 'Here I am.' "If you take away the yoke from your midst, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, 10 If you extend your soul to the hungry and satisfy the afflicted soul, Then your light shall dawn in the darkness, and your darkness shall be as the noonday. 11 The LORD will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought,
And strengthen your bones; You shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. 12 Those from among you shall build the old waste places; you shall rise up the foundations of many generations; and you shall be called the Repairer of the Breach, the Restorer of Streets to dwell in." NKJV
12 specific benefits:
1. Revelation
2. Healing and wholeness
3. Righteousness
4. The presence of Shekinah Glory
5. Answered prayers
6. Continual Guidance
7. Contentment
8. Refreshing
9. Strength
10. Work that endures
11. Raising up of future generations
12. Restoration
*Fasting and prayer is a powerful spiritual weapon that will effectively defeat sinful habitation is your life. It is the spiritual equivalent to the work out of an athlete in a gym. As you fast and seek Gods face he will begin to implant His authority in your spirit born out of intimacy with him. The spiritual evil will know you have the relationship with God to defeat them by sensing the power of God in your life. If you are seeking a physical healing from the Lord you need to fast and pray before believers seek God for your healing with you. If your marriage is having difficult times your need to fast and pray for a season before your expect your marriage to change. If your or someone you love has any form of chemical addiction they need to fast and pray so deliverance can actually happen in their life. Continual habits and temptations can be defeated if people will fast and pray.
Many of the chronic behavioral problems, mental problems, addictions, are explained in scripture as being caused by demonic forces. Listen church we are at war and one of our most effective weapon is fasting with prayer. Fasting develops a holy atmosphere around you that pushes the evil away and beckons the holy into your soul. I want you to see people who are in bondage all around you. People are broken, hurting, desperate, under he attack of Satan. FASTING breaks these cycles. Fasting stirs up our hunger for more of God.
"Now, therefore," says the Lord, "Turn to Me with all your heart, With fasting, with weeping, and with mourning" (Joel 2:12).
"The weakness of our hunger for God is not because he is unsavory, but because we keep ourselves stuffed with "other things." Perhaps, then, the denial of our stomach's appetite for food might express, or even increase, our soul's appetite for God… If you don't feel strong desires for the manifestation of the glory of God, it is not because you have drunk deeply and are satisfied. It is because you have nibbled so long at the table of the world. Your soul is stuffed with small things, and there is no room for the great." (John Piper, Hunger for God).
Fasting helps us more clearly hear God's voice.
"As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, "Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." (Acts 13:2).
"It is not necessarily a food fast, and most likely it is not a total refraining from food. It is a fast of what keeps you from seeking the Lord. It may be television, videos, computer games, newspapers, excessive shopping and phone conversations… This is a true fast. Too often we go on hunger strikes to hear from God, and continue in our busy, distracted lives. That is not a fast; therefore, we get very little benefit. A true fast occurs when we abstain for the purpose of seeking God in a more focused manner." (John Bevere, A Heart Ablaze).
Fasting expresses a need for God's help.
"Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him the right way (or a safe journey) for us and our little ones." (Ezra 8:21).
"Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai: "Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day." (Esther 4:15-16).
Fasting prepares us for greater effectiveness in ministry.
When the disciples couldn't deliver a demon-possessed boy: "So Jesus said to them, "Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting." (Matthew 17:20-21).
Fasting stirs up a hunger for revival and awakening.
Uncompromised Anointing!
God didn't anoint me so He could bless me. He anointed me so that I could serve Him, so that I could bless Him and others. The Holy Ghost is what gives me the power to want to live holy and to live right, to strive to live holy and sanctified everyday I remain on this earth. Sanctification and holy living is not an option… the church needs a good dose of sanctification. Yes, I still struggle, I still have those fleshly moments when temptations rise up, there are days when I have to repent for sin, but it wasn't on purpose, it was premeditated. Oh, it was one of those ‘I got out of the spirit moments', but let me tell you what... I strive to live holy. The sanctification process is instant but it's ongoing too. I know what it's like to be bound up, but I also know what it's like to be delivered. I know what it's like to be sick, but I also know what it's like to be healed. I know what it's like to be oppressed, but I also know what it's like to be victorious. PRAISE GOD, I KNOW WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BE SAVED! I believe that Jesus is the Son of God, that He's coming back for me, and I believe in the BOOK and the BLOOD. We need God's original anointing on His people like the day of Pentecost in Acts, Chapter 2. We need fresh oil. I still need a fresh anointing of the Holy Ghost. You'll never outgrow your need for a fresh anointing of the Holy Ghost. I shall be anointed with fresh oil. No matter how much doctrine you learn, or theology you memorize, or degrees you get, or the awards you get… YOU NEED A FRESH OUTPOURING OF THE HOLY GHOST. If we're going to be the church of the living God, we must have a fresh anointing on our lives. I read Joel, Chapter 2 and I had vision/revelation of a ‘weeping between porch and altar' service a few years back. This was a call to repentance vision, and this was a revelation, in which I saw a call to repentance, followed by a sustaining fire, in which this (Holy fire) restored an anointing shield around the church. I have been praying for a while about where the ‘spiritual block' is... in the churches at large, if it is in the congregation or in the pulpit or on the platform, but I will honestly say I've felt the block being in the altars of churches. The Holy Ghost isn't getting time to even be able to minister or move, when the altar isn't being utilized and used to the fullest, when there's a time frame being put on the altar call time, how can we expect the Lord to alter our lives, if we don't spend a lot of time at the altar. Where are those prayer meetings, if we desire to be a praying church? God help us if we forget that He is a miracle working God. People aren't leaving changed and set free, they are bound up, but they aren't even given an opportunity to come down to the altar to repent or to seek the baptism of the Holy Ghost. It's the same ones trying to keep the Pentecost fire alive? (Speaking of Pentecostal churches at large). I tell you we need to cast off the weaknesses of the flesh at the altar, and we can build ourselves up in the Spirit, and we get to the point where we can actually persevere… that's when you'll see the miracles of fire of Pentecost return. We can't afford to have the spirit of compromise and rebellion in the church. PENTECOST SHOULD BE UNLIMITED IN SERVICES, NOT LIMITED. WE NEED THE HOLY GHOST. IF WE DON'T HAVE A HOLY GHOST REVIVAL, WE WILL LOSE IT. WE WILL LOSE THAT PENTECOSTAL POWER, AND THERE WILL BE A SPIRITUAL DEATH THAT FOLLOWS!!!
Defeating the enemy!
The devil will try to destroy the healing process with his lies. Remember, the devil is the father of all lies and the truth is not in him. He has no good intentions for your life, and he desperately wants to prevent you from reclaiming your joy and peace. The Word tells us that satan comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. The Word of God also tells us that satan roams the earth to and fro, seeking whom he may devour. No one is exempt from his fiery darts of deception; satan will try to devour you through various oppositions. The enemy uses anyone he can to further his wickedness. The enemy is relentless and will come at you until he finds no cracks left in your armor to seep through. The devil is your only adversary; that is why you must learn his ways. God's Holy Word describes satan and his tactics so we may recognize them and thwart or deflect his wicked darts. We must prepare ourselves for battle daily by putting on the full armor of God, give Him control of our thoughts, and hide the Scriptures in our hearts that we might not sin against Him. And, satan must flee at the name of Jesus and retreat when the Holy Word of God scalds him. The light of Christ illuminates the dark recesses of the wicked one's cellar and withers the roots of deception. With satan, no one and nothing is sacred. We all are his targets and have been since his fall from heaven and God's glorious grace. We will remain as such until the Lord comes to call His children home, binds Satan, and casts him into the pit of hell for all eternity. Only then will we be completely free of satan and his treacherous ways. Until then, keep walking in the ways of the Lord, rebuking the enemy of his wicked ways, and pleading the blood of Jesus over your life everyday because satan can't cross the bloodline.
Giving thanks IN all things!
The Word of God tells me to give thanks IN all things, not FOR all things. - 1st Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV) - "IN every thing give thanks (give thanks IN all circumstances): for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." * It is not that you thank God for the bad things in life, it is that you thank Him while you are going through the difficult trials (meaning you aren't thanking Him for the trials but in the trials). Whining and complaining prolongs your trial, and I have had to learn this the hard way through much sickness. When you forget how to praise God, or you don't praise God in all situations... you will begin to see that you are not moving forward in the plan God has for your life.
Trusting God in the midst of difficulty!
Remember, when it seems the hardest to be thankful are the times we need to be thankful the most. It is during these difficult times where we have to place our trust totally in and on God to bring us through. It is through these times when our faith is not only put to the test, but where our faith will only become stronger than ever before. It is through these times when God can use us even more to reach out to others and lead them to Jesus so that when their time comes, they, too, shall be ready. It is during these times when God draws closer to us and we learn to draw closer to HIM. And trust me, my heart is hurting right along with others when they are burdened, I feel it too. And I promise you that we WILL get through these storms. God has not brought us this far to leave us, and we always have His promises to stand upon. God's promises are real: they are yes and amen, and satan is a liar: he is the father of all lies and the truth is not in him.
Forgive others as Jesus does!
Forgiving others even when they aren't sorry or don't apologize: JESUS was hated and rejected, betrayed by those He trusted and even hanging on the cross, He said, "Father, please forgive them". ❤ If He can love someone and find the good within. In spite of what they've done, no matter where they've been. If He can let it go and set the debtor free. If He can keep forgiving you and me. Why can't we!? ⇨Matthew 18:21-22 (KJV) Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven
November 20, 2017
Crush satan under your feet!
Remember that satan's plans are to steal, kill, and destroy, oh he's about his mission and he does it well... BUT Jesus came to give YOU life and give it to you MORE abundantly!! Sometimes, even during healing, we will experience temporary set backs, but it is in these set backs when God sets us up for MORE blessings, MORE of Him; it is progressively healing! It's during these times when we need to press in harder until we break through whatever the enemy has thrown in front of us to hinder us! You have authority over the enemy!
SATAN IS UNDER YOUR FEET! If you have to write, 'satan' on the bottom of every pair of shoes you own as a reminder that with every step, EVERY SINGLE STEP YOU TAKE, THAT HE IS CRUSHED, then do it! *read Romans 16:20* "The God of peace will crush satan under your feet shortly".
YOU are MORE than a conqueror thru Christ Jesus! #thisisformetoo #Iamfeelingbetter #sharewithothers
Removing the spirit of fear!
"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind". 2nd Timothy 1:7
More than once since I committed this verse to memory, I have had to embrace it as truth and pray that I not give in to a "spirit of fear." The spirit of fear hinders what God has given us: His power, love, and sound mind. This fear grips us with doubts and insecurities, waging war with our thoughts and feelings. This kind of fear is not of God but of the enemy, the devil himself. Fear is one of the greatest weapons satan uses against us, as it attacks our minds. The enemy tells us that we are untalented, unacceptable, unworthy, unloved, unsafe, and useless. These thoughts affect us all, he picks on everyone, no one is spared because the devil is the father of all lies and the truth is not in him. How can we fight against such thoughts? By believing the truth of the second part of the verse. God, through His Holy Spirit, has given us power, love, and a sound mind, not in our strength but in His. Are you dealing with fears today that are gripping you so tightly that you feel helpless and hopeless? How can these fears be conquered? Start by praying for the Lord to open your mind and help you understand how to use the power given by His Holy Spirit.
The power precedes love, so next pray for your heart to be filled with His love, knowing that His perfect love casts out fear (1st John 4:18). What a great pair… both power and love! Then, ask the Lord to clear your mind and bring to your thoughts His words, taking captive those thoughts not of Him. No we don't know what tomorrow holds, we aren't promised tomorrow but for those who are truly saved, we don't have to walk in fear; yes we are living in perilous times and I know we are living in the last days... but it is more imperative than ever to pray a supernatural hedge of protection over yourself and your loved ones each and every day knowing that God has you in the palm of His hand no matter what happens... as a saved child of God, you have eternity with Him to look forward to. I walk in complete faith and trust that God is ever keeping His hand of protection on my life, and His angels encamped around me until He returns to get me and He can do the same for you. Nothing catches God off guard or by surprise! He has the final say, and the work of the enemy will one day end!
"O, Lord, I pray that You teach us how to live victorious lives through the empowering love and strength of Your Holy Spirit. And in Jesus name, I ask that You break those strongholds of fear that bind us up and keep us from experiencing the peace and joy that You desire for us. Amen."
I Surrender All!
One of my favorite hymns is "I Surrender All"... 'all to thee my blessed Savior, I surrender all'. So, what does it mean to SURRENDER to God. I feel it means trusting God’s timing not knowing when it will come. It means expecting a miracle not knowing how God will provide it. It means coming to the feet of Jesus every single day & saying “I still trust You.” Lean on Him. Seek Him. Trust His will. Find comfort in knowing that you aren’t walking down this road alone. God is walking right beside you, and He is ready to carry your load just as soon as you make the choice to SURRENDER it to Him! God's got this!
God said He would turn it around!
My God said He would turn it around. And, has God ever turned things around in just a few short days... though they have seemed unbelievably long to me... God has used so many avenues and people to confirm healing words into my life. I stand in awe of His marvelous works and grace this day. GOD SAID HE WOULD TURN IT AROUND... WHAT THE DEVIL MEANT FOR EVIL GOD WILL MAKE IT GOOD!! That is the kind of God that I serve!! Only believe! When I look back on my life... Yes, I see pain, mistakes, and heartache. When I look in the mirror today... Oh Praise God, I see strength, lessons learned, and spiritual growth/maturity in the Lord. :)
Copy and paste link at youtube.com to listen to the song, "God said He would turn it around": https://youtu.be/e3eLopIhGnM
November 19, 2017
The Spirit and the bride say, Come!
"Behold saith the Lord of Hosts, I hunger for fellowship with my bride. I love spending time with My children. Many are distracted by the weight of this world. Yet in my presence is everything they have need of... healing, provision, mercy, strength, healing, joy, freedom. Tell My bride come dine at My Table. Trust in me. Seek me with your whole heart and you will find Me. When you find Me, you will find rest for your soul, clarity for your path, renewal for mind, and joy unspeakable. Tell My people I am more than enough. For I am faithful to finish what I started, saith the Lord of Hosts."
Words from God through the moving and operation of the Holy Spirit to His church and bridegroom!
November 18, 2017
God is so good!
God is so good! THIS SIMPLE CHORUS = SO MUCH MORE MEANING AND REALIZING MORE THAN EVER JUST HOW GOOD GOD REALLY IS! * 8/6/2017, I seen the Holy Spirit move, I felt Him move, I heard the Lord's Word go forth with power and victory, I watched others being touched by the Lord thru the prayers of others that morning at church. Why? Because our minister of music was obedient to the moving and operation of the Holy Spirit and begin singing this song after "Healer" and completely eliminating the 3rd song on our choir list for that service. As we begin to sing it as a whole congregation, in unison, acapella, the season of the Holy Spirit moving quickly came in. Our church is seeing miracles take place. I am so thankful to have a pastor and staff that doesn't quench nor grieve the spirit, nor sticks to a schedule, but changes direction(s) as the Spirit leads.
Don't Compromise!
Romans 12:2 (KJV) "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
With this verse, the Lord keeps taking me back to a vision and word He gave me in the wee hours of a Saturday morning back in 2015. The church at large seems to be conforming to the world more and more each day, through compromise, the way they talk, dress, the songs (secular) they allow in church. Oh, how it grieves my heart to see videos of church services with secular music and dance going on, talk and jokes that simply are not funny and are not Godly by any means, and if we know it isn't right we are just as guilty for sitting in it and allowing ourselves to be a part of it. The Lord has shown me through a vision, that the circle that will be left standing who refuse to compromise his/her beliefs and His word is going to grow smaller and smaller before His return. The Lord pulled me out of where I was sitting, in my vision, and placed me in an uncompromising circle, a place of refuge and strength, I just felt peace wash over me... I would rather walk away from something compromising that could eventually have "Ichabod" (the glory has departed) written over it, and enter a place where it just be me, the Lord, and a select few than to sit in a compromising place that can effect my relationship with the Lord and entering into Heaven.
With each passing day the Lord tarries, it is going to continue to get worse and uncomfortable for believers but the Lord is going to continue to separate the sheep from the goats (see Matthew 25:31-46), as He tears the scales off the eyes of true believers... the more He reveals to me, it isn't easy by any means, but I don't see it as a burden anymore but a blessing to know He loves me enough to warn me, protect me, pull me out of compromising situations and order my steps. The Lord isn't playing games. He knows every attack of the enemy, every scheme, every weakness and what is hidden shall come to light... but He also wants you to make sure everything is under the blood.
If you are spiritually blinded about something, pray for God to open your eyes with discernment, wisdom and knowledge. If you aren't praying, reading and studying the word during the week, change that. Focus on Him, the solution to all of your problems. If you need to apologize to someone and ask for their forgiveness than do it... time is short. What is continued to not be dealt with this side of glory, what continues to be pushed aside and swept under the rug this side of glory, will one day be brought to light... it will come to pass.
I tell you what, before this revelation, I felt like there was a brick on my chest but now I feel like I can breathe again and I have peace in my heart... peace in my heart knowing if God comes tonight I am ready, knowing I have it all under the blood, knowing one day I will reach perfection on the other side of glory, knowing I have no fear about standing as a Christian, knowing if I stand or sit alone, the Lord is with me and I won't compromise anymore.
Yes, you are going to continue to be blind sided by the enemy this side of glory but be like Shammah in the pea patch, in 2nd Samuel 23, be prepared to stay and fight the enemy with the Lord behind you... leading, guiding, directing and fighting for you. God is tired of compromise!!!
The word tells us to be ye holy for He is holy. My prayer everyday I remain on this earth is: "Dear Lord help me to continue to not compromise or deviate from your Holy standards but to walk only in your ways and paths! Cleanse me Lord, from all unrighteousness for thy namesake, continue to purify me and create in me a clean heart! Amen!"
The Lord showed me in 2014, how His return is going to be like a game of 'hide and seek'. He is going to say, "ready or not here I come", and people are not going to be ready even though He has continually sought after that person... please don't get left behind; you do not want to go through even more turmoil and tribulations. I've come too far in my relationship with the Lord to compromise and turn a blind eye to situations. This world and a majority of churches have decided to make holy living and sanctification an option, but it is not an option or a one/two day a week way of life. We should be striving and praying everyday to live sanctified and holy. I know what it is to live NOT sanctified, and I have no desire to return to that lifestyle even when the enemy continually tries to entice me with the pleasures of this world. The Word of God tells us that sin is only pleasurable for a season, and I know that to be true.
My prayer until I get to Heaven, is always, "Dear Lord let me be found in the center of Your will and be ready to go when You call! Amen!"
God's Grace!
I can't get enough of God's GRACE! Grace is God's power coming to us freely, meaning it does not cost us anything other than just putting our faith in God. Which enables us to do with ease, what we could never do on our own with any amount of struggle or effort. Put your faith in God. He wants to give you His grace today and everyday.
Scriptures with the subject GRACE (KJV):
James 4:6 - But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
Ephesians 2:8 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:
1 Corinthians 15:10 - But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which [was bestowed] upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
Hebrews 4:16 - Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
John 1:16 - And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.
2 Corinthians 12:9 - And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Romans 3:24 - Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
2 Timothy 2:1 - Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus
Call on God!
It's great to know that when we feel unworthy to come to the Lord; all we have to do is call on His name... and He will be there! Thank you Lord for being there in all of my storms and for giving me a reason to keeping going until You decide to call me home!
We are the Church!
If you want to see God's power at work, you must get out of the four church walls and into the world. Watch the extravagant lengths which God will go to, to reveal Himself to the people who do not know Him. Then, you will learn how truly awesome our God is. #weAreTheChurch #NotTheBuilding
November 16, 2017
Why A Blog Titled: "Becoming Better Women"?
Understanding the Holy Spirit!
These are notes from my previous Bible study teachings on the understanding of the operation of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians.
WEEK ONE - THE PERSON AND NATURE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT (HOLY GHOST)
I. THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. Before we talk about who the Holy Spirit is let’s talk about what He is not. 1. He is not a “thing” or an “it.”
B. The Holy Spirit is a person. 1. “The Spirit Himself” (Romans 8:16, 26)
2. The “Third Person” of the Godhead a. Like Father, like Son, like Holy Ghost. b. Just as the Father is God, and the Son is God, the Holy Spirit is God. c. Matthew 3:16-17, 28:19-20, 2nd Corinthians 13:14
3. Which is correct, Holy Spirit or Holy Ghost? a. Holy Ghost used in the KJV b. Both translated from the same Greek word: pneuma- The word Pneumatology comes from two Greek words which mean "wind, air, spirit" and "word" - combining to mean "the study of the Holy Spirit." The phrase "Holy Spirit" occurs only 3 times in KJV-OT: Psalm 51:11 — "Take not thy holy spirit from me"... Isaiah 63:10 — "They rebelled and vexed his holy spirit" ... Isaiah 63:11 —"Where is he who put his holy spirit within him?" – “Holy Spirit” occurs 4 times in KJV-NT: Luke 11:13 — "How much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?"...Ephesians 1:13 —
"Ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise"... Ephesians 4:30 — "Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, by whom ye are sealed"... 1 Thessalonians 4:8 — "God . . . hath also given unto us his Holy Spirit". Other 90 times HOLY GHOST occurs in KJV-NT for a total of 97 times.
C. Proofs of His being a person
1. He performs personal activities:
a. He strives with sinners (Galatians 6:3) b. He teaches (John 14:26) c. He reproves (John 16:8) d. He guides (John 16:13)
e. He comforts (Acts 9:31) f. He helps in our infirmities (Romans 8:26) g. He witnesses (Romans 8:16) h. He forbids (Acts 16:6)
2. He possesses personal attributes: a. He has a mind (Romans 8:27) b. He has a will
(1st Corinthians 12:7) c. He can be grieved (1st Corinthians 12:11) d. He can be vexed (Isaiah 63:10) 3. He enjoys personal relationships.
II. THE NATURE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. He has the attributes of God. 1.He is eternal (Hebrews 9:14) 2. He is omnipresent – everywhere (Psalm 139:7-10) 3. He is omnipotent – unlimited power, able to do anything (Luke 1:37) 4. He is omniscient – knows everything (1 Corinthians 2:10)
B. He does the works of God
1. Creation(Genesis 1:2) “And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” KJV - 2. Inspiring the Word of God (2 Peter 1:19-21) v. 21 “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 3. Saving the Lost (Regeneration, Cleansing)
C. The Holy Spirit is God 1. The only obvious conclusion. 2. The Holy Spirit is God Himself in action.
THE NAMES AND SYMBOLS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT (HOLY GHOST)
I. NAMES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT (Holy Ghost)
A. Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit 1. Occurs 97 times in the Bible - “Holy Ghost.” It occurs 90 times in the KJV (all in NT). The term “Holy Spirit” occurs 7 times in the KJV (3x in OT, 4x in NT) a. The most common name. b. Ref: Matthew 28:19 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost”. Upon research, the term Holy Ghost is only found in the King James Version, other versions have translated the term Holy Ghost to Holy Spirit. As language evolved,people started saying "ghost" when speaking of the vision of a dead person while "spirit" became the standard term for life or living essence, often also for "soul."
B. Spirit of God 1. Occurs 26 time sin the Bible a. Ephesians 4:30
b. 1 John.4:2
2. Emphasizes His relationship with the Father a. He proceeds from the Father (John 15:2)
C. Spirit of Christ 1. Ref: Romans 8:9;
1st Peter 10:1 2. Emphasis on His relationship with Christ a. He was given by Christ (John 14:15; 15:26; 16:7) b. He reveals Christ c. He takes Christ’s place (John 14:16)
D. Variously translated: a. Comforter (KJV) b. Helper (NKJV) c. Counselor (NIV) d. Advocate 3. Literally: “One who walks alongside to help” – See John 14:26 (KJV) “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”
E. Other names of the Holy Spirit: 1. Spirit of Sonship/Adoption (Romans 8:15)
2. Spirit of Grace (Hebrews 10:29)
3. The Eternal Spirit (Hebrews 9:14)
4. Spirit of Truth (John 14:17; 15:26; 16:13) 5. Spirit of Life (Romans 8:2; Revelation 11:11)
6. Holy Spirit of Promise (Ephesians 1:12)
II. SYMBOLS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. Wind/Breath 1. Biblical examples: a. To Nicodemus (John 3:8) b. Jesus breathed on His disciples (John 20:22) c. Pentecost (Acts 2:2)
2. means either wind, spirit, or breath
3. Significance: a. Speaks of the invisible nature of the Holy Spirit b. Wind also speaks of moving force and energy c. The Holy Spirit fills us much like breathing fills the lungs with air.
B. Water/Rain 1. Biblical examples a. Living water (John 7:37) b. Latter rain (Joel 2:23, Isaiah 32:15)
2. Significance: Speaks of the Spirit’s life giving, refreshing (Isaiah 28:11-12; Acts 3:19) and sustaining work.
C. Fire 1. Biblical examples a. Holy Spirit and fire (Matthew 3:11)
2. Pentecost (Acts 2:3) 2. Significance: a. Fire speaks of cleansing by the burning up of impurities b. “Tongues of fire” suggest prophetic anointing.
D. Oil 1. Biblical examples a. David anointed (1 Samuel 16:12-13) b. Anointing oil
(James 5:14) c. Jesus (Luke 4:18-19)
2. Significance: a. Oil speaks of anointing or consecration for service. b. This anointing also includes empowerment (Acts 10:38)
E. Dove 1. Biblical examples a. Jesus’baptism (Matthew 3:16, John 1:32) b. Noted in all 4 gospels
2. Significance: a. Speaks of gentleness and innocence (Matthew 10:16) b. Also reminds us of the creative work of the Spirit (Genesis 1:2; Luke 1:35)
*Note: The Holy Spirit isn't visible to us, but these symbols are visible to us. The dove signifies purity and innocence and peace with God.
WEEK TWO - THE NATURE, IMPORTANCE, AND PURPOSE OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST
I. THE NATURE OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST
A. It is a spiritual experience. 1. Not a ritualistic experience or religious rite. i.e. such as confirmation or extreme unction. 2. It is God Himself coming in power upon a believing saint. a. Acts 1:8 b. Luke 24:49 c. Just as the water comes upon, covers, and “clothes” a person who is being baptized, just so, the person who is being baptized in the Holy Ghost is covered and clothed with the presence of God. 3. It is a filling with, and an overflowing of, the Spirit of God. a. Acts 2:4, “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost (infilling) and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance (overflowing)". b. John 7:37-38.
c. Ephesians 5:18
B. It is an intensely personal experience. 1. Although people are often filled in groups, they are filled one by one.
2. It is an intensely unique and personal experience. a. At Pentecost the people were each speaking in the specific language that the Holy Ghost was giving them.
b. 1st Corinthians 12:11
C. It is a life-changing experience. 1. It is an experience whereby a believer’s life is dramatically revolutionized. 2. Examples:
a. Simon Peter b. Saul of Tarsus
II. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST (The importance of this experience is demonstrated by the following facts):
A. We have been commanded to be filled with the Spirit.
1. The command to wait a.Luke 24:49: “…tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem UNTIL ye be endued with power from on high.”
2. The command to teach others to obey a. Matthew 28:20 “teaching them to obey all things that I have commanded them to do.” b. In the same context, He commanded his disciples to be filled with the Spirit (Acts 1:4,5) 3. The command to be filled (Ephesians 5:18) a. Actually two commands: 1) Don’t get drunk on wine 2) Be filled with the Spirit b. We must obey both!
B. The baptism in the Holy Ghost is one of the church’s two primary resources in fulfilling the Great Commission.
1. The Church’s two powerful weapons a. The Power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16) b. The Power of the Holy Ghost (Acts 1:8)
2. Power to fulfill the Great Commission: (With every giving of the Great Commission Jesus promised the power and/or presence of the Holy Ghost): Matthew 28:20, Mark 16:17, Luke 24:49, John 20:22, Acts 1:8
III. THE PURPOSE OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST
A. The Primary Purpose:
1. Power for Witness
2. Acts 1:8, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
B. Other Powerful Personal Benefits to the Believer:
1. Enhanced prayer life (Romans 8:26-27)
2. Power for personal sanctification (2nd Thessalonians 2:13)
3. Closer relationship with God (Romans 5:5, 8:15-16)
4. More perfect worship (John 4:24)
5. Greater understanding of the Word (John 16:13)
WEEK THREE - THE NAMES AND DESCRIPTIONS OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST
I. NAMES OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST
A. The baptism in the Holy Ghost.
1. Scripture references: a. John the Baptist: Matthew 3:11 b. Jesus: Acts 1:5 c. Acts 11:16
2. Significance: a. Baptism signifies a total immersion in the Holy Spirit b. Baptism speaks of anew life and beginning
B. The gift of the Holy Spirit.
1. Scripture references: a. At Pentecost: Acts 2:38 b. At Caesarea: 1) Acts 10:45 2)Acts 11:17, “Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us.”
2. Significance: a. Gift speaks of the fact that it is freely given and not earned. b. Speaks of God’s willingness to give the Holy Spirit (SEE: Luke 11: 9,10, 13) b. Gift also speaks of availability (SEE: Acts 2:39)
C. The Promise of the Father
1. Scripture references: a. Luke 24:49
b. Acts 1:4 c. Acts 2:33 d. Ephesians 1:14
2. Significance: a. The description of “the” Promise, rather than “a” promise signifies the uniqueness and importance of this experience. b. The word“promise” indicates that this experience was foreseen in ages past. At Pentecost Peter quotes Joel: “This is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel...” (SEE: Acts 2:16-17)
II. DESCRIPTIONS OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. Power from on high
1. Scripture references: Luke 24:49 2. Significance: a. The experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit is essentially an experience of God’s power. b. It comes from “on high,” that is, from God.
B. Clothing (endued) with power
1. Scripture reference: Luke 24:49
2. Significance: a. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is a powerful experience which totally envelops and overwhelms an individual.
C. Outpouring/falling on/coming upon
1. Scripture references: a. Poured out 1) Acts 2:16-18 (v. 17) 2) Acts 2:33 3) Acts 10:45 4) Isaiah 44:2-3 b. Falling upon 1) Acts 8:16 2) Acts 10:44 c. Coming upon (Acts 1:8) 2. Significance: a. The pouring out of the Spirit 1) Speaks of the fact that giving the Spirit is a divine initiative 2) The phrase “poured out” also figuratively describes the coming of the Holy Spirit like an overwhelming tide. b.The falling upon describes the fact that the Spirit comes from above 1) Above: Not so much in terms of physical direction 2) But in terms of a higher authority or dimension of life c. The coming of the Holy Spirit is a divine invasion from without. Receiving 1. Scripture references: a. Jesus’ promise, Acts 2:38 b. Samaritan believers, Acts 8:17 c. Ephesian believers, Acts 19:2 - 2.Significance: a. “Receiving” the Holy Spirit speaks of the act of faith that must take place on the part of the candidate for the baptism in the Holy Spirit. b. “Pouring out” is an act of God, “receiving” is the human act. Together these two acts result in a person being filled with the Spirit.
D. Filling 1. Scripture references: a. Pentecost, Acts 2:4 b. Paul, Acts 9:17 c. Ephesians 5:18 - 2. Significance: a. Not only is the baptism in the Holy Spirit a “divine invasion from without” it is divine invasion within a person’s life. b. The individual’s body, soul, and spirit is literally permeated (saturated) with the Holy Spirit. c. The person’s inner life is therefore changed and revolutionized by this experience.
E. Baptizing 1. Scripture references: a. John the Baptist, Matthew 3:11 b. Jesus, Acts 1:5 - 2. Significance: 1. Baptizing speaks of total immersion of the individual in God’s overwhelming power and presence. 2. It means to be drenched or soaked with the power and presence of God. a. In water baptism no part of the person’s body is left untouched. b. In Holy Spirit baptism the whole being of the person is imbued with the Spirit of God. 3. Water baptism could be viewed as a kind of clothing in water. In like manner “baptized in the Holy Spirit” is another way of saying “clothed” with the Holy Spirit.
WEEK FOUR - THE TIME OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST
I. THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST AND THE NEW BIRTH.
A. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is an experience separate from the new birth 1.The non-Pentecostal stance: a. The new birth and the baptism in the Holy Spirit are the same experience.b.Their primary proof text is 1st Corinthians 12:13: “For by one Spirit are we were all baptized into one body—whether Jew are Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit.” c. They contend that this verse proves that all Christians are baptized in the Holy Spirit when they are born of the Spirit at conversion. 2. The Pentecostal stance: the doctrine of separability: a. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is an experience separate and distinct from the new birth. b. This fact can be clearly demonstrated in the book of Acts. c. Concerning 1st Corinthians 12:13, Pentecostals say this verse is not a reference to the baptism in the Holy Spirit. 1) A careful reading of this verse reveals that it speaks of the Holy Spirit baptizing the believer into the body of Christ, which takes place at conversion (Romans 6:3, 4) 2) The baptism in the Holy Spirit is a separate experience from conversion whereby Jesus baptizes the believer into the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 3:11) d. The two experiences have two distinct purposes: 1)The New Birth: The Holy Spirit gives the repentant sinner a new life in Christ(2nd Corinthians 5:7); he is made a member of the kingdom of God (John 3:5); and he is placed into the body of Christ (1st Corinthians 12:13). 2) The Baptism in the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit mightily comes upon a believer filling him with God’s power and presence and empowering him for effective witness and service (Acts 1:8).
B. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is an experience subsequent to the new birth. 1.The non-Pentecostal stance: Since the baptism in the Holy Spirit is identical with conversion, then logically the two experiences must take place at the same time. 2. The Pentecostal stance: the doctrine of subsequence: a. The experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit takes place subsequent to (i.e. after)conversion. b. Proof Texts: 1) Jesus said that the world could not receive this blessing, “The Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannon receive” (John 14:17). 2) Paul asked the Ephesians, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” (Acts 19:2). a) Literally, “Having believed (or “After believing”) did you receive the Holy Spirit?” b) If the Holy Spirit is received automatically at conversion, what is the point of this question? c) Paul could be describing this same even in Ephesians 1:13: “In Him you also trusted, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit.” 3)Speaking to Christians Paul wrote, “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18), with some the Pentecostal baptism takes place immediately after salvation, as with the Gentile believers at Caesarea: Acts 10:44 While Peter yet spake these words, the “Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.”With others it takes place a long time after salvation, as with the Ephesian believers. 1. READ: Acts 19:1-6 - 2. Along span of time took place between these disciples believing in Christ and their infilling with the Spirit.
II. FIVE BIBLICAL PROOFS DEMONSTRATING SEPARABILITY AND SUBSEQUENCE
A. Jesus was born of the Spirit and later filled with the Spirit. 1. He was “born of the Spirit”: Luke 1:34-35 -2. He was later filled with the Spirit: Luke 3:21-22 and 4:1
B. The disciples were truly converted and then later filled with the Holy Spirit.
1. They were truly converted a. Luke 10:20: Their names were written in heaven b. John 15:3, They were “already clean” through the words that Jesus has spoken to them. c. John 20: 22: They have received the Spirit in new birth
2. Still Jesus commanded to wait to be filled with the Spirit a. Luke 24:49, “tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power...” b. Acts 1:4-5 3. They were filled with the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost: Acts 2:4.
C. The Samaritan converts were first saved then later received the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:5-17)
1. Truly converted under the ministry of Philip a. They had heeded the message of Christ (vv. 5, 6) b.They experienced “great joy: (v. 8) c.They believed and were baptized in water (v. 12)
2. And yet, the had not yet received the Holy Spirit: Acts 8:16 -3. They later received when apostles prayed for them, Acts 8:17.
D. Paul was converted on the Damascus Road and later filled with the Spirit when Ananias prayed for him (Acts 9:1-19)
1. He was truly converted when he encountered Jesus on the Damascus Road
a. He called Jesus “Lord” (v. 6) b. He obeyed Jesus and submitted to His will. (vv. 6-9)
c. Ananias called him “Brother Saul” (v. 17) 2. Later, he received the Holy Spirit when Ananias prayed for him (vv. 17-18)
E. The Ephesian disciples were saved and baptized in water and then later filled with the Spirit when Paul laid hands on them (Acts 19:1-7).
III. THE TIME OF RECEIVING THE SPIRIT IN RELATION TO “OUTWARD MEANS”
A. The time in relation to water baptism 1. Water baptism may precede receiving the Holy Spirit a. Peter at Pentecost: Acts 2:38, “Repent and be baptized... and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” b. At Samaria: Acts 8:16, “As yet He had fallen upon none of them, they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” c. At Ephesus: Acts 19:5-6, “When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, they Holy Spirit came upon them,and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.”
2. Water baptism may follow receiving the Holy Spirit a. At Caesarea: Acts 10:46-48 b. Saul of Tarsus: Acts 9:17-18 - 3. We therefore conclude: Water baptism is neither a precondition nor a channel for receiving the Holy Spirit.
B. In relation to laying on of hands
1. The Holy Spirit may be received without the laying on of hands. a. At Pentecost: Acts 2: 2-4, b. At Caesarea: Acts 10:44-46,
c. Conclusion: The laying on of hands is not essential for the Holy Spirit to be received. 2. The Holy Spirit may be given with the laying on of hands. a. At Samaria: Acts 8:17, “And when [Peter and John] laid hands on them, they received the Holy Spirit.”
C. With Saul of Tarsus: Acts 9:17-18.
At Ephesus: Acts 19:6, “And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Ghost came upon them, and the spoke with tongues and prophesied.” We therefore conclude: a. The laying on of hands can be used to aid people in receiving the Holy Spirit. b. The laying on of hands to aid someone in receiving the Holy Spirit is not limited to the apostles, but it can be done by any Spirit-filled Christian.
WEEK FIVE - THE EVIDENCES OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY GHOST
I. THE INITIAL PHYSICAL EVIDENCE
A. The Initial Physical Evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit Is Speaking in a New Tongue as the Spirit Gives Utterance.
B. Speaking in Tongues Can Be Seen as a New Testament Continuation of an Old Testament Prophetic Tradition
1. In the Old Testament those who were filled with the Spirit often prophesied: a) The seventy elders prophesied when the Spirit rested upon them: Numbers 11:25, b) King Saul prophesied when the Spirit of God came upon him: 1st Samuel 10:10-11 c) The ancient prophets spoke as the Spirit moved them: 2 Peter 1: 21
2. In the New Testament, those who were filled with the Spirit also “prophesied,” by speaking in tongues as the Spirit gave utterance. a) At Pentecost they spoke in tongues: Acts 2:4 b) In this Pentecost sermon, Peter characterized tongues as prophetic speech: Acts 2:16-17
C. Conclusion 1. Speaking in tongues is the normative evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. 2. Normative defined: It is an experience for all Christians of all cultures and times until Jesus comes again.
II. THE PRIMARY PURPOSE OF SPIRIT BAPTISM
A. Power to Witness
1. Power to witness is the primary purpose of Spirit baptism.
2. Acts 1:8-3. In the book of Acts, every evangelistic and missionary thrust of the church was preceded by an outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
B. The Relation of Tongues to Witness
1. When one is initially baptized in the Spirit, he or she will speak in tongues “as the Spirit enables” them.
2. God now wants them to go out and speak about Christ in their own language “as the Spirit enables” them or gives them utterance.
III. FOUR OTHER IMPORTANT EVIDENCES(OR EFFECTS) OF BEING BAPTIZED IN THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. Deeper Relationship with God
1. Romans 5:5
2. Romans 8:15
3. Galatians 4:6
B. Power over Satan and Demons
1. Matthew 12:28-29 (Ref. Luke 11:20-22)
2. Luke 10:19
C. Power to Do the Works of Jesus
1. John 14:12, “The works that I do shall [you] do also... because I go to my Father.”
2. What will happen when Jesus goes to the Father? (v. 16)
D. The Release of Spiritual Gifts
1. Since the gifts of the Spirit reside in the Spirit, then when one is baptized in the Holy Spirit he/she receives with Him the gifts of the Spirit .
2. According to His own will, the Holy Spirit can release any gift in the Spirit-filled believer that He chooses. (1st Corinthians 12:11)
3. The believer’s responsibility is to remain open and responsive to the Holy Spirit and to move in faith at His promptings.
WEEK SIX - RECEIVING THE HOLY GHOST
I. WHO CAN RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST
A. All who have been born again
1. The gift of the Holy Spirit is for everyone God calls into His family: Acts 2:38-39
2. The “Alls” of Pentecost indicate that it is God’s desire to fill every believer with the Holy Spirit. a. The “all” of Joel: Joel 2:28-29 (Also, Acts 2:17) b. The “all” of Pentecost: Acts 2:4, c. The “all” of Cornelius’ household: Acts 10:44, “While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.”
B. Those who “thirsty” and are prepared to obey God
1. Those who are thirsty for more of God: John 7:37-38
2. Those who are prepared to obey God and be His witnesses, Acts 5:32
II. THE CONTEXT OF RECEIVING THE HOLY GHOST
A. The Holy Spirit is received in the context of prayer.
1. Examples: a. Jesus was praying when He received (Luke 3:21-22) b. The disciples were praying before Pentecost (Acts 1:14; Luke 24:52-53) c. Saul was praying when he received (Acts 9:11) d. The Gentiles at Caesarea and Peter were both praying before they received (Acts 10:2-4, 9)
2. Application: a. We should pray (and encourage others to) in preparation to being filled with the Spirit. b. We must pray in order to receive the Holy Spirit.
B. The Holy Spirit is Received in the Context Obedience
1. Scripture: a. Acts 5:32, “The Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey.”
b. Note that the context of Acts 5:32 is Spirit-empowered witness. i.e. God will give His Spirit to those who are prepared to witness for Him!
2. Examples of obedience: a. Peter and John obey Christ’s command to be witnesses (Acts 5:29) b. The 120 obediently waited(Luke 24:49, Acts 2:1) c. Saul of Tarsus obeyed the instructions of Jesus (Acts 9:6) d. Both Cornelius and Peter obeyed (Acts 10:5, 20)
3. Obedience must also include an attitude of obedient submission to all of Christ’s commandments. a. Not sinless perfection but an obedient heart: John 14:15-16, b. If we will obey Christ’s commands to preach the gospel and ask for the Spirit, He will empower us with the Holy Spirit.
C. The Holy Spirit is received in the context desire. 1. Scripture: a. Matthew 5:6, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be filled.” 1) Filled with what? His righteousness! 2) How can we be filled with His righteousness? By being filled with the Spirit. 3) What is the prerequisite? Must hunger and thirst after it. b. John 7:37-38
2. Examples from Acts: a. By the 120 before Pentecost: 1) In obedience to Jesus’ command to “tarry in the city of Jerusalem until the were endued with power from on high” (Luke 24:49), they were.... 2) “Continually in the temple praising and blessing God“ (Luke 24:53) b. By Cornelius: 1) He was a “devout man and one who feared God with all his household” (Acts 10:2).
2) As a result God sovereignly chose him and his household to be the first Gentiles to receive the Holy Spirit.
D. The Holy Spirit is received in the context yielding.
1. The Holy Spirit is received in an atmosphere of total surrender to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. This includes: a. Willingness to give all to him. b. Commitment to hold nothing back. 2. Such yielding involves at least two areas: a. Yielding our lives to God prepares the way for the reception of the Holy Spirit 1) Commitment to live a life that is pleasing to Him in all ways. 2) Commitment to do his will at all costs, b. Yielding our vocal organs to the Spirit is the act of faith whereby we begin speaking in tongues. 1) Acts 2:4 “They spoke... the Holy Spirit enabled...” 2) An act of total abandonment to God.
E. The Holy Spirit is received in the context faith and expectancy.
1. The Holy Spirit is received by an act of faith: a. John 7:38" “He who believes in me... out of his hear twill flow rivers of living water.” b. Galatians 3: 2, 5
2. Examples from the book of Acts: a. Before Pentecost 1) The had both a command (Acts 1:4-5), a promise (Acts 1:4)
2) They were waiting in eager expectation b. Samaritan Believers 1) Expectancy must have been created by the coming of the apostles from Jerusalem (Acts 8:14, 15)
2) Though the text does not say, certainly the apostles must have taught them about the baptism in the Holy Spirit, thus creating more expectancy. c. Saul of Tarsus
1) The words of Jesus must have created expectancy (Acts 9:6)
2) The statement of Ananias created expectancy (v. 17). d. Ephesian believers
1) Paul created expectancy with his question, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed? (Acts 19:2)
2)And with his teaching that followed (Acts 19:2-4)
3. Jesus’s words in Luke 11 create expectancy in our hearts a. v. 9 “Ask and it will be given to you...” b. v. 10 “For everyone who asks received...” c. v. 13 “How much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”
II. HOW YOU CAN RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST
A. You can receive the baptism in the Holy Ghost by doing the following:
1. By Asking in Faith a. In sincere believing prayer, ask God to fill you now. b. As you ask, know three things (1 John 5:17) 1) That you are praying in the will of God 2) That God hears your prayer 3) That God is ready to answer your prayer
2. By Receiving in Faith - a. Not by passive assent to truth, but by aggressively reaching out and taking what God has graciously offered. b. Mark 11:24, “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.”
3. By Boldly Speaking Out in Faith as the Spirit Prompts a. Acts 2:4, “And they... began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
WEEK SEVEN - SPEAKING IN TONGUES, ITS NATURE AND FUNCTIONS
I. THE NATURE OF SPEAKING IN TONGUES
A. The Holy Spirit provides the language.
1. Acts 2:4
2. 1st Corinthians 14:2
3. Romans 8:26, 27 “The Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groaning’s which cannot be uttered... He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.”
B. It is a real language.
1. Not “ecstatic utterance” as translated by the New English Bible.
2. Acts 2:6-11 “Everyone heard them speak in his own language...”
3. 1st Corinthians. 13:1
C. It Is characterized by praise to God.
1. Acts 2:11, “We hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.” 2. Acts 10:46
3. 1 Corinthians 14:16-17
D. It is an important part of every Christian’s spiritual life.
1. Paul, “I wish that you all spoke with tongues” (1st Corinthians 14:5).
2. Tongues are important in three ways: 1) As sign that he/she has received the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:46) - 2) In communication with God (Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 14:2) - 3) For self-edification (1sy Corinthians 14:4)
II. THE FUNCTIONS OF SPEAKING WITH TONGUES
A. Evidential Tongues: (Acts 2:4; 10:46)
1. Speaking in tongues is the initial physical evidence of the baptism in the Holy Ghost. a. Acts 2:4
b. Acts 10:45-46
B. Tongues as a Sign:
1. A sign to unbelievers and skeptics
a. 1st Corinthians 14:22, “Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe.” b. At Pentecost (Acts 2:5-12) 1) The people heard them speaking in their own languages. (Acts 2:6) 2) The were “amazed” and their hearts were prepared to hear the gospel (Acts 2:7, 12) c. At Caesarea (Acts 10:45-46). 1) v. 45, The Jewish “skeptics” were convinced that God has indeed poured out His Spirit “on the Gentiles also.”
2. A missionary sign to the church a. Question: Why did God choose languages as the sign for the baptism in the Holy Spirit? b. Speaking in tongues (i.e.languages) is a sign to the church that the purpose of the baptism in the Holy Ghost is to empower the church to take the gospel to people of every language. (Reference Acts 1:8).
C. Tongues as a Prayer Language:
1. For personal devotion and edification: As the Spirit-filled believer prays in tongues in his/her own personal devotional life three things happen: a. That person will be build up spiritually: 1st Corinthians 14:4, 18 - b. builds up faith: Jude 20 - c. keeps self in the love of God: 1) Jude 20-21, 2) Romans 5:5 - 2. For intercessory prayer a. Praying in tongues is also a powerful method of intercessory prayer. 1) Note: In 1st Corinthians 14:14, 15 Paul equated praying in the Spirit with praying in tongues. 2). Romans 8:26-27 teaches four powerful truths about this powerful Spirit-directed intercessory prayer: 1) We have a weakness in prayer: “We do not know what we should pray for as we ought.” 2) The Spirit helps our weakness by praying through us. 3) He prays through us with “groaning’s that cannot be uttered”. 4) He always prays through us according to the will of God.
D. Tongues as a spiritual gift 1.
1st Corinthians 12:10, “to another [is given] different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.”
2. This gift is to be used in public worship to edify the body and as a sign for the unbelievers. This will be explained further in the last lesson on Spiritual Gifts.
WEEK EIGHT - GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT (SPIRITUAL GIFTS) 1st CORINTHIANS 14
I. SPIRITUAL GIFTS DEFINED
A. Various definitions (1) Spiritual power..., (2) Spiritual revelations..., (3) Inspired utterance..., (4) Spirit-guided administration of the affairs of the church...,(5) Spirit energized giving, “The genuine gifts of the Spirit are God in action through Christ by the Power of the Holy Spirit in the Church.”
B. Our Working Definition: (Note: This definition relates specifically to the list of spiritual gifts found in 1st Corinthians 12:8-10) 1. Spiritual gifts are supernatural anointing’s, given by the Holy Spirit through Spirit-filled believers to accomplish the will of the Father. 2. The Definition Expounded: a. “Supernatural anointing’s”: 1) Spiritual gifts come as “anointing’s” on the individual believer. 2) They are released by the believer responding in faith and obedient action. b. “Given by the Holy Spirit”: 1) Spiritual gifts are just that — they are gifts. 2) They are not distributed on the basis of the receiver’s personal merit or holiness, but they are distributed according to the Spirit’s sovereign will and free grace. 3) Neither are they to be viewed as the possession or the resident of the recipient, but they are released on an occasion by occasion basis as the Holy Spirit wills. c. “Through Spirit-filled believers”: 1) By Spirit-filled believers we mean those Christians who have been baptized in the Holy Spirit 2) In addition to this, they are currently walking in close relation with the Spirit of God. d. “To accomplish the will of the Father” 1) The purpose of Spiritual gifts is not to fulfill the needs of the individual being used but to accomplish the will and purpose of God. 2)They are given to build up and strengthen the body of Christ numerically, physically, socially, and spiritually.
II. GROUPINGS OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS
A. Gifts from Father and Son 1. Gifts of the Father (Romans 12:3-8) a. These gifts are given by “God” 1) Romans 12:3 “God has dealt to each one...” 2) “God” in this verse very likely refers to God the Father b. These gifts include the following: 1) Prophesying 2) Serving 3) Teaching 4) Encouraging 5) Contributing to the needs of others 6) Leadership 7) Mercy
Purpose and Characteristics: 1) They come from God. 2) As in Ephesians 4 these gifts not expressly referred to as “gifts of the Spirit.” 3) These “graces” seem to be of a more permanent nature than the gifts of 1 Corinthians 12:8-10. 3) Their purpose is for “service and outreach” in the church. 4) Some have referred to these gifts as the “motivational gifts of God.” 2. Gifts of the Son (Ephesians 4:11) a. These gifts are given by Christ to the church. b. The gifts include the following: 1) Apostles 2) Prophets 3) Evangelists 4) Pastor/Teachers (“pastors and teachers”) c. Purpose and Characteristics: 1) Sometimes called the “Five-fold (or Four-fold) Ministries of the Church” or the “Ministry Gifts of Christ” or the “Gifted Spiritual Leadership” of the church. 2) The purpose of these ministry gifts is for “the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry." 3) This list obviously refers to individuals rather than to enablements or anointing’s. 4) These gifted leaders would necessarily need to be used in the other gifts.
B. Gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12: 4-10) 1. These gifts are given by the Holy Spirit 2. These gifts include the following: a. Word of wisdom b. Word of knowledge c. Faith d. Gifts of healing e. Working of miracles f. Prophecy g. Discerning of spirits h. Divers kinds of tongues i. Interpretation of tongues 3. Purpose and Characteristics a. These gifts are called “manifestations of the Spirit” in v. 7, indicating that they are ways that the Spirit makes his power and presence know. b. Called “then nine-fold manifestation” of the Spirit. c. These gifts are supernatural anointing’s given by the Holy Spirit in the context of the church gathered together (See 1st Corinthians 11:17, 18, 19, 20, 33, 34; 14:23, 36). d. These gifts seem to be released on a case by case basis rather than given as permanent ministries. e. The purpose of these gifts is the edification and building up of the church. (See 1st Corinthians 14:3-5, 12, 17, 26)
III. THE NINE “MANIFESTATION GIFTS” IDENTIFIED - The Nine Manifestations of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:7-11)
A. Revelation Gifts (Given to know the mind of God) 1. Word of Knowledge: A Spirit-conferred revelation of God's knowledge 2. Word of Wisdom: A Spirit-conferred revelation of God's wisdom 3. Discerning of Spirits: A Spirit-conferred revelation of what S[s]pirit is being manifested or what S[s]pirit is motivating an action.
B. Prophetic Gifts (Given to say the words of God) 1. Gift of Prophecy: A Spirit-inspired speaking forth of a message from God in a language known to the speaker 2. Gift of Tongues: A Spirit-inspired speaking forth of a message or prayer from God in a language not understood by the speaker. 3. Interpretation of Tongues: A Spirit-inspired speaking forth of the meaning (interpretation) tongues of a message given in tongues - Here are the two main verses telling you where the gift of interpretation will come into play with the gift of tongues:"If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.” (1 Corinthians 14:27-28) – others receive the interpretation “Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.” (1st Corinthians 14:13-14) – you, yourself can receive the interpretation.
1 Corinthians 4:27 KJV - If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.
C. Power Gifts (Given to Do the Works of God) - 1. Gift of Healings: A Spirit-energized healing of diseases and infirmities 2. Gift of Faith: A Spirit-energized surge of faith to accomplish a God-given task 3. Gift of Miracles: (Literally,“operations of works of power”) A Spirit-energized Powers release of divine power to accomplish a God-ordained task.
MORE INFO: http://www.bible-knowledge.com/gifts-of-the-holy-spirit/
IV. FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT
A. Galatians 5:22-23 (KJV) “ But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”
B. But if the 9 fruits of the Holy Spirit are the cake, then the 9 gifts of the Holy Spirit are the icing on the cake. Put these two together, and allow God to work with a believer with both sets of these 9 fruits and 9 gifts. And you will have one mighty sanctified soldier of Jesus Christ, as the 9 gifts of the Holy Spirit will give you some serious heavy ammunition to have at your disposal as you walk with God’s anointing in your daily life.
IN REVIEW:
Lesson 1 – The Person and Nature, Names and Symbols of the Holy Spirit - The Holy Spirit is not a thing or it. He is a person, the 3rd person of the Trinity. (God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Ghost) Holy Spirit and Holy Ghost are the same and can be used interchangeably. The nature of the Holy Spirit is that He has the attributes of God, He does the works of God. The Holy Spirit is God, Himself in action. The names of the Holy Spirit: Spirit of God,Spirit of Christ, Comforter (literally the One who walks alongside of us.) See John 14:26, Spirit of Sonship/Adoption, Spirit of Truth, Spirit of Life, Spirit of Promise, Eternal Spirit. The symbols of the Holy Spirit: Wind/Breath,Water/Rain, Fire, Oil, Dove.
Lesson 2 – The Nature, Importance, and Purpose of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit - The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a spiritual, personal, and life changing experience. Read about Simon Peter and Saul of Tarsus. We are commanded to be filled and to wait (tarry) for the Holy Spirit, as the disciples were commanded to do in Luke 24:49. We are also commanded to obey the Lord and His Holy Spirit and to share the Gospel, just as the disciples were instructed to do so. This is the importance. The purpose is the POWER TO WITNESS. Other benefits of receiving the Baptism of the Holy Spirit (Holy Ghost): enhanced prayer life,personal sanctification, a closer relationship with God, the ability to worship God in spirit and in truth, and a greater understanding of the Word of God (Bible).
Lesson 3 – The Names and Descriptions of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit - The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a gift, given freely to those who have been converted to Christ, and who are living sanctified. It is a promise of the Father. The descriptions of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit: power from on high, clothed with power, totally immersed in the Holy Spirit, just as a person is totally immersed in water, when publically confessing his/her salvation,through water baptism, it is a same effect with the Holy Spirit when a person is baptized in the spirit. It is also an outpouring and a filling.
Lesson 4 – Time of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit - The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a separate and distinct experience from receiving the infilling of the Holy Spirit at the time of a person’s conversion to Christ. The Holy Spirit dwells in the believer to bring conviction, sanctification, holy living,comfort, and to teach and empower the spirit filled believer to witness. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is to occur after the person is saved and living a sanctified life, but it can occur before the person is baptized in water. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit takes the believer’s relationship with Christ to a deeper level. You can receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit with or without the laying on of hands from another believer who is already baptized in the Holy Spirit.
Lesson 5 – Evidences of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit - The initial evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4) The Baptism in the Holy Spirit can also be seen as a New Testament continuation of an Old Testament prophetic tradition. In the Old Testament days, when people of God were filled with the spirit, or the spirit rested upon them, they would prophecy. In Peter’s Pentecostal sermon, he characterized tongues as prophetic speech. (See Acts 2:16-17). Other Evidences: power to witness, deeper relationship with God, the ability to discern real from false teachings, greater understanding of the Word of God, power over satan and his demons, the Holy Spirit prays for you (prays the will of the Father), power to do the works of Jesus, release of spiritual gifts, helps, teaches, and empowers the believer for life-service-witnessing.
Lesson 6 – Receiving the Baptism in the Holy Spirit - Just as salvation is a freely given gift to ALL, so is the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is a free gift given to ALL who believe, who’ve been saved,sanctified by the Holy Spirit, and are thirsty and ready to obey God. It comes down to YIELDING, which is given the Holy Spirit complete control and guidance over your life. Disobedience will hinder a believer from receiving, as well as someone who is compromising God’s Word and His Holy standards. You have to be obedient and seek through prayer, a sincere desire, with faith and expectancy.The believer seeking the baptism of the Holy Spirit must have a clean and consecrated heart (a heart that is set apart, holy unto God). When you receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, you WILL SPEAK IN TONGUES. It may be a man’s language somewhere on this earth, a heavenly angelic language, but it will be a language not known to the one speaking it. You have to yield your vocal chords to the Holy Spirit, so He can speak through you. Remember that you are just the willing vessel and God’s mouthpiece. He will speak and work through the obedient,yielding believer.
Lesson 7 – Speaking in Tongues, Its Nature and Functions - The Holy Spirit provides the language. It is a real language. It is characterized by praise to God. It is an important part of every Christian’s spiritual life.Tongues are important in three ways: As a sign that he/she has received the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:46), in communication with God (Romans 8:26-27), and for self-edification (1 Corinthians 14:4). The Functions of Speaking with Tongues: Evidential Tongues which is the initial evidence. Tongues a Sign (to the unbelievers, see 1 Corinthians 14:22). Tongues as a Prayer Language for personal devotion and edification. These tongues are to be a communication between the believer and God, and need not be interpreted. Also, it will build up the believer spiritually, build up his/her faith, keeps self in the love of God, and it’s for prayer intercessory use.Tongues as a spiritual gift. (See 1 Corinthians 12:10) This gift is to be used in a worship setting to edify the body of Christ and as a sign for the unbelievers.
A Study of the Holy Spirit!
Back during the Summer of 2015, I had the blessed opportunity to teach an 8 week study on the Holy Spirit at my home church on Wednesday nights, at Clanton Church of God. This includes the notes of the 1st five lessons I taught. The Lord grew me so much through this journey, though some of it was painful pruning, of teaching and in depth studying of this subject!
The Holy Spirit * (Pneumatology – wind, air, spirit, breath combining to mean the study of the Holy Spirit)
1. The person and nature of the Holy Spirit
2. The names and symbols of the Holy Spirit
3. The Holy Spirit in History
4. The Holy Spirit’s Work in the Life of the Individual Believer
5. The Holy Spirit’s Work in the Church
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Lesson 1
THE PERSON AND NATURE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Lesson Objectives: When this lesson is completed the student should understand that the Holy Spirit is a Divine Person with all the attributes of personality deity.
1. This course - “The Holy Spirit”
2. We will study many things about the person and work of the Spirit of God
3. We must begin by asking two important questions? - a. Just who is the Holy Spirit? b. What is the nature of the Holy Spirit? 4. In this lesson we will answer these vital questions.
I. THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. Before we talk about who the Holy Spirit is let’s talk about what He is not.
1. He is not a “thing” or an “it.”
2. He is not an impersonal force, or energy - a. Like electricity b. Or witchcraft
3. He is not an abstract quality or ideal such as “love” or “nature” or a “universal force for good.”
B. The Holy Spirit is a person.
1. “The Spirit Himself” (Romans 8:16, 26)
2. The“Third Person” of the Godhead a. Like Father, like Son, like Holy Spirit (Ghost) b. Just as the Father is God, and the Son is God, the Holy Spirit is God. c. Matthew 3:16-17, 28:19-20, 2nd Corinthians 13:14
3. Which is correct, Holy Spirit or Holy Ghost? a. Holy Ghost used in the KJV
b. Both translated from the same Greek word: pneuma c. Acts 2:4 (KJV) “They were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave utterance.” d. John 7:37-38 (KJV).
C. The difference between personality and corporeality:
1. Personality a. Being a person b. Having the traits of personality
2. Corporeality a. Having a body
D. Proofs of His being a person:
1. He performs personal activities a. He strives with sinners (Galatians 6:3) b. He teaches (John 14:26) c. He reproves (John 16:8) d. He guides (John 16:13) e. He comforts (Acts 9:31) f. He helps in our infirmities (Romans 8:26) g. He witnesses (Romans 8:16) h. He forbids (Acts 16:6)
2. He possesses personal attributes a. He has a mind (Romans 8:27) b. He has a will (1st Corinthians 12:7) c. He can be grieved (1st Corinthians 12:11) d. He can be vexed (Isaiah 63:10)
3. He enjoys personal relationships
II. THE NATURE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. He has the attributes of God.
1. He is eternal (Hebrews 9:14)
2. He is omnipresent – everywhere (Psalm 139:7-10)
3. He is omnipotent – unlimited power, able to do anything (Luke 1:37)
4. He is omniscient – knows everything
(1st Corinthians 2:10)
B. He does the works of God
1. Creation (Genesis 1:1-2)
2. Inspiring the Word of God (2 Peter 1:19-21)
3. Saving the Lost (Regeneration, Cleansing)
C. The Holy Spirit is God
1. The only obvious conclusion.
2. The Holy Spirit is God Himself in action.
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Lesson 2
THE NAMES AND SYMBOLS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Lesson Objectives: When this lesson is completed the student should...
1. Know the various names and symbols of the Holy Spirit in Scripture.
2. By investigating these names and symbols, know more about his person and work.
A. In the previous lesson we learned about the Person and Nature of the Holy Spirit.
B. We learned two things: a. He is a Person
b. He is God
3. In this lesson we will be investigating the various names given to the Holy Spirit in Scripture. a. Just as Jesus is called by many names b. So the Holy Spirit is called by various names.
4. Each name describes a different aspect about his nature and character.
5. We will also investigate the different symbols used in Scripture to depict the Holy Spirit.
I. NAMES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit 1. Occurs 97 times in the Bible - “Holy Ghost.” It occurs 90 times in the KJV. The term “Holy Spirit” occurs 7 times in the KJV a. The most common name. b. Ref: Matthew 28:19 2. The emphasis is on His holiness (Romans 1:4, Spirit of Holiness).
B. Spirit of God 1. Occurs 26 times in the Bible a. Ephesians 4:30 b. 1 John.4:2 2. Emphasizes His relationship with the Father c. He proceeds from the Father (John 15:2)
C. Spirit of Christ 1. Ref: Romans 8:9;
1st Peter 10:1 2. Emphasis on His relationship with Christ a. He was given by Christ (John 14:15; 15:26; 16:7) b. He reveals Christ c. He takes Christ’s place (John 14:16)
D. Variously translated: a. Comforter(KJV) b. Helper (NKJV) c. Counselor (NIV)
d. Advocate 3. Literally: “One who walks alongside to help”.
E. Other names of the Holy Spirit:
1. Spirit of Sonship/Adoption (Romans 8:15) 2. Spirit of Grace (Hebrews 10:29)
3. The Eternal Spirit (Hebrews 9:14)
4. Spirit of Truth (John 14:17; 15:26; 16:13) 5. Spirit of Life (Romans 8:2; Revelation 11:11)
6. Holy Spirit of Promise (Ephesians 1:12)
II. SYMBOLS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. Wind/Breath 1. Biblical examples: a. To Nicodemus (John 3:8) b. Jesus breathed on His disciples (John 20:22) c. Pentecost (Acts 2:2) 2. means either wind, spirit, or breath 3. Significance: a. Speaks of the invisible nature of the Holy Spirit. b.Wind also speaks of moving force and energy. c. The Holy Spirit fills us much like breathing fills the lungs with air.
B. Water/Rain 1. Biblical examples a. Living water (John 7:37) b. Latter rain (Joel 2:23, Isaiah 32:15) 2. Significance: Speaks of the Spirit’s life giving, refreshing(Isaiah 28:11-12; Acts 3:19) and sustaining work.
C. Fire 1. Biblical examples a. Holy Spirit and fire (Matthew 3:11) 2. Pentecost (Acts 2:3) 2. Significance: a. Fire speaks of cleansing by the burning up of impurities
b. “Tongues of fire”suggest prophetic anointing
D. Oil 1. Biblical examples a. David anointed (1 Samuel 16:12-13) b. Anointing oil (James 5:14) c. Jesus (Luke 4:18-19)
2. Significance: a. Oil speaks of anointing or consecration for service. b. This anointing also includes empowerment (Acts 10:38)
E. Dove 1. Biblical examples a.Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:16, John 1:32) b. Noted in all 4 gospels
2. Significance: a. Speaks of gentleness and innocence (Matthew 10:16) b. Also reminds us of the creative work of the Spirit (Genesis 1:2; Luke 1:35)
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Lesson 3
THE HOLY SPIRIT IN HISTORY
I. THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE OLD TESTAMENT (His Work in the World before Pentecost)
A. He was active in creation.
1. In creating the world a. Genesis 1:2 “the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.” b. Job 26:13 “By His Spirit He adorned the heavens”...
2. In sustaining creation (Psalm 104:30)
B. He anointed and enabled deliverers and prophets.
1. Moses and the Seventy Elders: Isaiah 63:11: He “put His Holy Spirit within them.” 2. Joshua: Numbers 27:18, “Joshua, the son of Nun... a man in whom is the Spirit”
3. Gideon: a. Judges 6:34: “But the Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon, then he blew the trumpet. b. Literally, “The Spirit of the Lord put on [was clothed with] Gideon.”
4. Samson: a. Judges 13:25: “The Spirit of the Lord began to move upon him...”
b. Judges 14:6: “And the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him” c. Judges 14:19: “Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily” d. Judges 15:14: “Then the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him.”
5. King Saul: a. He prophesies among the prophets (1 Samuel 10:1-13)
6. David: When he was anointed king, by Samuel “Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward.”
(1st Samuel 16:13). His (David’s) prayer of repentance: “Take not thy Holy Spirit from me” (Psalm 51:11).
II. THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF JESUS (His Work in the World during the Time of Christ)
A. The Holy Spirit Worked in His Conception and Birth - Luke 1:35
B. The Holy Spirit Worked in His Ministry - 1. In the beginning of His Ministry a. At His water baptism, Luke 3:21, 22. b. Without measure: John 3:34
2. In the continuation of His ministry a. Inauguration, Luke 4:18-19, b. Anointing and empowering 1) He was anointed by the Spirit: Acts 10:38, “God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and with power..."
2) He ministered in the power of the Spirit a) Anointed at His baptism (Luke 3:21) b)Luke 4:14, “Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee”
c) Luke 4:18
d) Luke 5:17, “Now He was teaching... and the power of the Lord was present to heal them.” e) Luke 6:19 “Power went out from Him and healed them all.”
3. Leading and guiding: Luke 4:1
C. He promised to empower His church.
1.He promised that they would do “greater works”: John14:12
2. He commanded them to wait. a. Luke 24:49 “Tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”
b. Acts 1:4-5
3. He promised them power Acts 1:8.
D. Jesus performed His ministry, not in His own power, but in the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit. He thus became our example in Spirit-anointed ministry.
III. THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE CHURCH (His Work in the World after Pentecost)
A. The Church was empowered on the Day of Pentecost.
1. The command of Jesus to wait: a. Luke 24:49, b. Acts 1:8, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: 8 and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
2. The Church is empowered Acts 2:1-4
B. The Holy Spirit enabled the church to minister in power. - 1. Acts 2:43, Acts 4:33
C. The Holy Spirit will remain with the church until it is taken away.
1. 2nd Thessalonians. 2:7 - a. The One who holds back is the Holy Spirit working through the church. b. He will remain active in the world until Jesus calls the church out of the world at the time of the rapture.
(1st Thessalonians 4:14-18).
2. We can expect the Holy Spirit to do His work of calling and redeeming man and empowering His church until He comes again.
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Lesson 4
THE HOLY SPIRIT’S WORK IN THE LIFE OF THE INDIVIDUAL BELIEVER
I. HE GIVES NEW LIFE TO THE REPENTIVE SINNER
A. The Holy Spirit effects the process of conversion.
1. The Holy Spirit convicts the sinner of His sin, see John 16:7-12
2. The Holy Spirit reveals Christ to the seeker, see 1st Corinthians 12:3
3. The Holy Spirit regenerates the one who repents & believes in Christ, see John 3:1-7
B. The Holy Spirit baptizes the believer into the body of Christ. 1. 1st Corinthians 12:13. 2. Don’t confuse with the baptism in the Holy Spirit. 3.Three baptisms: a. Baptism into [the body of] Christ (1st Corinthians 12:13; Romans 5:3-6) b. Water Baptism (Matthew 28:19-20) c. Baptism in the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5)
II. HE INDWELLS THE BELIEVER
A. Every True Believer is indwelt by the Holy Spirit 1. Romans 8:9, 2. John 3:5,
3. Galatians 4 :6,
III. HE SANCTIFIES THE BELIEVER
A. The Holy Spirit sanctifies the believer: 1 Corinthians 6:11
IV. HE IS THE BELIEVERS ADVOCATE AND HELPER
A. The promise of Jesus: “another Comforter” 1. He will abide with us, and in us: John 14:16-17, John 15:26-27
B. The Holy Spirit will be to the believer everything that Jesus would be if He were here in the flesh.
V. HE TEACHES THE BELIEVER
A. Will guide into all truth: John 16:13
B. He will teach us all things: John 14:26
VI. HE EMPOWERS THE BELIEVER FOR LIFE AND SERVICE
A. Power from on high: Luke 24:49
B. Power to “be witnesses”: Acts 1:8
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Lesson 5
THE HOLY SPIRIT’S WORK IN THE CHURCH
Lesson Objectives: When this lesson is completed the student should - 1. Know the role that the Holy Spirit plays in the life of the church
2. Understand the work of the Holy Spirit through the church in world evangelization.
I. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S WORK IN THE CHURCH
A. He indwells the church. - 1. As the temple of God a. 1st Corinthians 3:16, 17: “Do you now know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” - 2. As a habitation of God a. Ephesians. 2:19-22
B. He is the church’s source of life and righteousness. 1. He has been poured out on the church: Acts 2:16-18
2. He speaks to the church: “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches...” (Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22)
3. He promotes righteousness, peace, and joy in the church: Romans 14:17, “For the kingdom of God is not food and drink, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
C. He is the church’s source of power and ministry. 1. He empowers the church: Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you...” 2. He appoints leaders for the church: Acts 20:28
3. He gives gifts to the church: 1st Corinthians 12: 4-11.
4. He strengthens the church through supernatural manifestations: Acts 4:31-33
II. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S WORK IN WORLD EVANGELIZATION
A. One of the most important ways that the Spirit works in the church is to inspire it and empower it for world evangelization. He Inspires the Church to World Evangelization 1. Peter explains why he went to the Gentiles to preach the gospel: Acts 11:12 “The Spirit told me to go... “
2. The Holy Spirit called and sent out Barnabas and Saul on their first missionary journey: Acts 13:1-4 “The Holy Spirit said, ‘Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them’...
So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit the went down to Selucia...”
3. It is the same today... the Holy Spirit inspires the Church for world evangelization.
B. He Empowers the Church for World Evangelization
1. Jesus promised power: Acts 1:8: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
2. The Holy Spirit anoints the preaching of the gospel: a. At Pentecost: Acts 2:14
3. The Holy Spirit confirms the preaching of the gospel with signs and wonders: a. Mark 16:15-20
C. The Holy Spirit superintends the world harvest.
1. Jesus is the Lord of the Harvest—the Holy Spirit is the General Superintendent. a. Jesus is the Lord of the Harvest (Matthew. 9:37-38) b. The Holy Spirit is the one who now acts in Jesus place to superintend the harvest 1) John 14:16-18,
a) “another Helper” b)The Holy Spirit would take Jesus place. c) He would come and superintend the work Jesus as Lord of the Harvest 2) John 16:14, “He [the Holy Spirit] will bring glory to men by taking from what is mine and making it know to you.”
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