Scripture References: John 14:16-27; John 16:7-15; Acts 2; 1 Corinthians 12:1; Romans 8:9; Ephesians 5:18; Ephesians 4:30; Galatians 4:6
Intro: Continuing our focus on the church's mission, specifically being "surrendered to the Spirit," we address a topic often marked by confusion, fear, or controversy. Last week highlighted that surrender requires trust, and trust requires knowing someone. Today, let's get to know the Holy Spirit better, letting Jesus Himself introduce us.
Key Points:
- Confusion & Controversy: The Holy Spirit's work and gifts often cause debate (cessationism vs. continuationism) or bewilderment (Acts 2 reactions). Many Christians remain unintentionally ignorant (1 Cor 12:1) or wary due to misunderstanding or past negative exposures. (Our stance: Gifts continue today).
- Jesus Introduces the Spirit (John 14 & 16): In His farewell talk, Jesus described the Spirit as "another Helper" (like Himself), the "Spirit of Truth," who would dwell in believers permanently, teach them, remind them of Jesus' words, bring peace, and convince the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment. Jesus emphasized His coming was advantageous (John 16:7).
- The Holy Spirit is GOD: The Spirit isn't an impersonal force (fire, wind, dove) or mere power, but the third Person of the Trinity, fully equal with the Father and the Son. Viewing Him as less hinders our relationship.
- He is a Person to Know: Scripture reveals the Spirit has a mind (Rom 8:27), a will (Acts 16:6), and emotions (Eph 4:30 - He can be grieved). We relate to Him, not just use Him. He is the very Spirit of Jesus within us (Gal 4:6).
- No Conditions Allowed: We wouldn't approach God the Father or Jesus with conditions ("I'll take this part of you, but not that"). It's equally illogical to approach the Holy Spirit—who is God—with fear-based conditions or wanting only partial access. This reveals mistrust and a failure to recognize who He truly is.
- The Real Danger: Neglect, Not Excess: While healthy guidelines are good (e.g., gifts point to Jesus, Scripture is supreme, fruit matters alongside gifts), the greater danger in the church today is often neglecting or marginalizing the Holy Spirit due to fear or misunderstanding, rather than engaging Him too much.
Conclusion: Surrendering to the Spirit requires moving beyond fear and impersonal views to embrace Him as the divine Person He is – our indwelling Helper, Comforter, and Guide, fully God. We need more of His active presence and influence, not less.
Call to Action:
- Let Jesus introduce you to the Holy Spirit through His words in John 14-16.
- Repent of any fear, mistrust, or view of the Spirit as less than fully God.
- Reject placing conditions on Him; welcome Him fully.
- Intentionally seek to know Him as a Person. Ask for "more" – more yieldedness, more awareness of His presence, more surrender to His leading.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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