Practicing Watchfulness: Be Vigilant

September 10, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Watchfulness and vigilance

In 1 Corinthians 16:13, Paul gives us his view of what watchfulness looks like in our daily life. The Amplified version reads:

Be on guard; stand firm in your faith [in God, respecting His precepts and keeping your doctrine sound]. Act like [mature] men and be courageous; be strong.

This reads more like a recruitment post for the armed services. However, we as believers, must always remember that we are in a spiritual battle. We are required to be prepared and alert, as we learned in Jesus’ parable of the 10 Virgins (Matt. 25:1-13). We are also required to be vigilant!

Vigilance defined

Vigilance is synonymous with watchfulness in that it deals with being prepared and keeping careful watch for possible danger and difficulties.

In our earlier lessons on watchfulness (Be aware and Be prepared), we focused on our preparation for the Lord’s return. We used the parable of the 10 virgins to better understand the first area of watchfulness in our personal Christian walk. “We are to prepare for the imminent return of Christ.”

Our text today deals with the second watchfulness emphasis in the New Testament: “Being on guard against temptation.” Temptation occurs when we identify with this fallen world and are drawn away from God: away from His service, His purpose, and His plans.

Vigilance and temptation

Vigilant watchfulness for the Lord’s return enabled the disciples to battle temptation. The synoptic gospels picture Jesus struggled in Gethsemane is similar to what the church would struggle with during end times. Jesus serves as a model of how to stand against temptation as illustrated in Matthew 4:1-11 in His battle in the wilderness. The petition in the Lord’s prayer to be able to stand against temptation points not only to end times in the future but to the daily enablement needed by believers.[1]

In today’s scripture, the apostle Paul is giving us both a command and an imperative. There are 4 imperatives in this one verse: (1) watch, (2) stand fast in the faith, (3) be courageous, and finally, (4) be strong.

To be vigilant means keeping an eye on the world around us. More importantly, it’s paying attention to our spiritual condition and our spiritual life. Vigilance requires us to stand fast in the faith, persevering, and committed to our beliefs. It requires that we daily engage in activities that renew our mind, strengthen our spirit, and boldly proclaim our faith.

Paul’s view

In 1 Corinthians 16:13, Paul gives this general advice on watchfulness and vigilance.

Christians are always in danger, and therefore should always be on the watch (1 Peter 5:8). Danger is greater at some times and under certain circumstances. The Corinthians were in manifest danger. Arguments ran high, with major differences of opinion. There were deceivers among them who endeavor to corrupt the faith. For a Christian to be secure, we must be vigilant and on guard.

We are to stand fast in our faith. We do that by adhering to God’s Word and through the revelations shared with us through His Holy Spirit. As Christians, we are to be fixed on the faith of the gospel, and never desert nor renounce it. It is by this faith alone that we will be able to stand our ground during moments of temptation. By stand firm in the faith of the gospel, we can overcome the world (1 John 5:4).

Paul advises us to act like men and be strong. Christians should be firm when challenged by our enemies, defending our faith, and maintaining our integrity. We can, confidently, point to the One in whom we place our faith: Jesus the Christ (2 Tim. 1:14).

What does it mean to us?

What are the areas of our life which hold the greatest danger to our faith walk?
Do we need to draw closer to the revelation of God: the Bible and the Holy Spirit?
Where are we drawing our influence and wisdom from?
Are we comfortable defending our faith?

[1] Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, Elwell.

Practicing Watchfulness: Be Aware

August 28, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Watchfulness recap

Last week we acknowledged the fact that we, as humans, are always watching. But are we watchful? We defined watchfulness as preparedness in order to avoid being taken unaware by an enemy. It involves fighting carelessness to reach a desired goal.

The question that hopefully will be answered in this series is, “Are we watchful of the right things?” We introduced this topic of watchfulness with Jesus’ parable of the foolish and wise virgins (Matt. 25:1-13). The parable cautions us to be “alert and vigilant” less we miss God’s opportunities. We must be aware!

Aware and prepared

Awareness involves concern and informed interest in a particular situation or development. This added knowledge increases our ability to persevere and remain encouraged (1 Cor. 16:13). We are able to see beyond what is in front of us even in the midst of our trials and tribulations. We live life both aware and prepared.

In Jesus’ parable, unfortunately, five of the ten virgins were both unaware and unprepared. The result was their inability to enter the wedding feast. Today we’ll dig in a little deeper into this parable and how it applies to us today.

Who were the Ten Virgins?

Jesus gave ample warning in His teaching concerning the last days and the need for spiritual preparation. He realized that His church would need spiritual focus while waiting for His return.

Jesus makes the purpose of this parable clear in its last verse. “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming” (verse 13). He warns that failure to be aware and prepared for His return would have “eternal and irreversible consequences”.

Ten virgins: The same yet different

While the two groups of virgins have some interesting similarities outwardly, their concealed attitudes revealed how they really felt about their role in the wedding. These attitudes eventually affected their ability to be aware and prepared.

Both groups were in the same place. They were going to meet the bridegroom (verse 1). How does that compare to 21^st century believers?

The spiritually unprepared Christian may sit right beside the spiritually prepared Christian in Sunday service. They both seem interested in the same things and seem to have the same character. Both may diligently give tithes and offerings and serve their brethren. It may only be in a crisis that the real differences show up, and then attendance may begin to wane, and their monetary support of the church may slow or even stop.

Both groups were carrying lamps (verse 1), so these vessels are not a sign of who had prepared.

Similarly, a person carrying a Bible to church does not show that that person has prepared by study and prayer during the previous week to overcome sin and produce spiritual fruit. Neither does it show that the Holy Spirit exists within a person.

Both groups slumbered and slept (verse 5). The word “slumbered” means to nod, a transient act, whereas “slept” should be sleeping, a continuous act. We see in the wording of the virgins act the progression of lethargy. First, the virgins nodded their heads as if napping, and later, they slept continuously and deeply.

Even the most dedicated and sincere saints may temporarily become spiritually lethargic. Initial weariness is the first step to further spiritual decay. It is vital to catch temporary apathy early to prevent permanent disillusionment.

“Watch therefore…”

Are we aware and prepared? What is our attitude and commitment as we wait? Here are a few questions to help us as we prepare to become more watchful. Remember the end of Jesus’ parable as you answer these questions. “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.”

Do we really believe Christ will return?
How are we currently addressing sin in our life?
Does our lifestyle reflect a personal relationship with Christ or a religious routine?
What’s our attitude concerning the things of God?
Are we careless with the assignments given us by God and the Church?
Are we preparing for Christs’ return, our personal sin, and fostering a faithful prayer life?

Spiritual Maturity

Practicing Watchfulness: Be Prepared

August 20, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Everybody’s watching something.

Is it easier access to information or a heightened sense of alert that has us watching what’s happening around us? We rise early and sleep late to hear what’s happening nationally and internationally. Is the cost of living rising or falling?

With the upcoming elections, we are watchful to see what will happen politically as potential candidates jockey for leadership. We are eagerly waiting to see who emerges in the key positions on our favorite sports team.

Watchfulness is something that we all do, but the question is, are we watching the right things? Today we will begin a new series entitled, “Practicing Watchfulness”.

What is watchfulness?

Watchfulness is defined as to attend or to observe someone or something closely; being alert and vigilant. Watchfulness suggests a preparedness in order to avoid being taken unaware by an enemy. It involves fighting carelessness to reach a desired goal.

Scripture offers great insight into watchfulness. In Proverbs 8:34 it says, “Blessed is the man who listens for me watching daily at my gate waiting at the post of my door.” In Nehemiah 4:9 it is written that “Nevertheless we made our prayers to our God and because of them we set a watch against them day and night.”

In the New Testament, three basic emphases on watchfulness are found. The first is in being prepared for the Lord’s return (Mark 13:32-37). The second is in our guarding against temptation (Eph. 5:15-16). And finally, watchfulness in our prayers (Eph. 6:18).

A lesson on watchfulness.

To introduce this study on watchfulness, we will share the familiar parable of the Wise and the Foolish Virgins found in Matthew 25:1-13. The lesson on watchfulness is found in verse 10.

But while they [the foolish Virgins] were going away to buy oil, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut and locked. (Amplified)

Jesus taught this parable to His disciples knowing they might lose heart after He left them. They would need the help of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-18). His future Church would also need encouragement as they watched for His Second Coming (Matt. 24:42-44).

In 2024, we too, need encouragement as we go through these extremely perilous times. As we look around, there are serious issues in the world around us. We may become fearful and feel hopeless. But Jesus wants us to be encouraged. We are never alone. As we watch, He stands with us (John 15:4).

Undesired consequences.

In Jesus’ parable, 10 virgins awaited the bridegroom’s return. Unfortunately, only half of them were prepared. They were watchful even in light of the bridegroom’s delay.

Jesus’ parable gives us ample warning about watchfulness and the need for spiritual preparation. Anyone found lacking in either of these, risks eternal consequences.

F. B. Meyer, noted theologian and teacher, shares five (5) mistakes the foolish virgins made. Let us not do the same!

1. They made no preparation for the continuation of their light. How do we keep our spiritual lamps burning? Are we reading God’s Word, praying, and in fellowship with other Christians?

1. They slept. Are we awake and alert today? Are we watchful and ready to serve?

1. They thought they could procure oil from the wise virgins. Are we personally prepared to serve and maintain our relationship with Jesus? Are we depending on others to make the connection for us?

1. They thought that they could get in. Do we think our past actions or positions will guarantee us entrance into eternity? What is our current relationship with Jesus?

1. They thought the bridegroom would recognize them. When He returns, will Jesus recognize us (John 10:14)?

Watchfulness is important to us today. Even more than in the 1^st century. “Keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matt. 24:42). More to come next week on Practicing Watchfulness.

Spiritual Maturity

Everybody’s Talking

August 13, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

“Things are bad!”

Everybody’s talking about how bad “things” have gotten. What does that include? Increases in crime. Rising incidents of government corruption. Lack of respect for “anybody” and general disregard for authority. The absence of “common” civility. It’s even the price increases for everything, even when the quality or service seems to have declined.

Well guess what? Behind every little “bad thing”, there is the probability it has its beginning in sin. Yep! Good old fashion sin. Think about it: crime, inflated prices? What’s at its root? Covetousness and greed (hoodlums or investor returns). Political corruption? What is the motivation? Pride, dishonesty, vanity. Lack of civility? Selfishness, hate, injustice. Many of the issues we face in society are because of sin.

Continuation of these sins (personal and national) can quickly erode the very fiber of what people value today and hope to leave for the generations that follow. If we continue to justify our “bad behavior”, how will we stop this “sinful trajectory” and its effect on our world? What do we do with sin?

Past Efforts

For too long, this question has been asked only by theologians and scholars as they “pontificate” over spiritual things. But the people who should be asking this question are those who are currently stewards of God’s grace (1 Pet. 4:10) , desiring that God’s “kingdom will come”—to our nation, to our churches, and more importantly, to our homes. Social reform and political posturing cannot affect these human dimensions.

Sin originates from thoughts and feelings that focus on activities that satisfy personal and selfish agendas (James 1:14-15). These desires are then acted upon by the will (spirit and heart) which has the power to do what is good—or evil.

The Apostle Paul also warns us in Ephesians 6:12 (Amplified) about “spiritual influences” presently at work to maintain sin in our community and our world.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.

So, what do we do with sin?

It is our responsibility to no longer be silent about sin in our lives and their effect on our world. We must ask the Holy Spirit to help us to see the world through “spiritual eyes”, discerning what is right from what is wrong.

We must first recognize sin in our own life. We begin by aligning our will with the will and counsel of God (Col. 3:1-3). This requires that we read His Word, become fervent in prayer, and seek his guidance. Secondarily, we must boldly speak out against sin in our society. It includes our witness to God’s expectation that we love one another (1 John 4:7-8) and seek to be “reconciled” (in right relationship) to each other (Eph. 2:14-15).

Finally, we are to advocate for all things that glorify and honor God (Gal. 5:22-24). Not only that which fits our political preference or ecumenical belief. Sound simple? It is, when we place God over our personal needs and agendas (Matt.6:33).

If you are in the midst of sin, first confess and repent quickly. God is faithful to forgive and cleanse you (1 John 1: 19). Then reckon yourself dead to sin (Rom. 6:11) and no longer let sin have dominion over you (Rom. 6:14). That’s what we do with sin! That’s what we need to have everyone talking about!

The Holy Spirit

Meeting the Holy Spirit Series: What will we do with the Holy Spirit? Epilogue

August 6, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

What have we learned?

The Holy Spirit is God. While it is important to understand the unique purpose of each member of the Trinity, it is especially true with regard to the critical role the Holy Spirit plays in the believer’s daily faith walk.

The Holy Spirit’s work as the third person of the Trinity is, not only, to make known God the Father and Jesus Christ, but also to continue the work of salvation in the life of believers. Most important being achieving God’s purpose in their life.

It is the Holy Spirit who can accomplish the transformational work of sanctification in our lives. Only the Holy Spirit can change us from “the inside out” (Phil. 1:6). As we grow in the knowledge of God and Jesus Christ, we develop a personal relationship with God’s Spirit. The more time we spend with Him, the more we begin to look like Him—being conformed to Jesus’ image (Rom. 8:29).

Our conversion can, however, be hindered by our quenching or grieving the Spirit. What are those behaviors, habits, or thoughts that we continue to hold on to that impede our relationship with God? Unforgiveness, cravings of the flesh, and/or pride in our achievements and possessions?

Life lived in the Spirit

We would do well to be intentional in submitting to God and in acknowledging His presence in our lives. Life for believers is to be lived coram Deo: In the presence of, under the authority of, and to the honor and glory of God.

This life cannot be lived in our power or our strength (Rom. 7:22-25). It is ONLY THROUGH the Holy Spirit’s filling that we can live holy and righteous lives (Phil. 4:13). And the result of that filling is an abundant life evidenced by the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Gal. 5:22-23, KJV).

The Holy Spirit living within us leads, guides, and empowers us to accomplish the purpose which God pre-ordained before the foundations of the world (1 Pet. 1:20). He ensures God’s will is realized in our lives. He will always lead us in the way that results in God’s purpose. As the Spirit occupies more of our life, we receive “exceeding great and precious promises that are ours as partakers of God’s divine nature” (2 Pet. 1:4).

What will we do with the Holy Spirit?

In this study, we recommended several books to expand our “head knowledge” about the third person of the Godhead. More importantly, we pray that we have created a greater desire for a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit.

We begin that relationship through reading and meditating on God’s Word. God’s Word and the Holy Spirit are the only means by which we can understand God’s will. It is the Holy Spirit who speaks to our spirit. It may be felt as a gentle nudging, counsel from a Christian friend, or even a closed door to an opportunity. The Holy Spirit is always there to lead us to God’s purpose and our destiny.

We close with this recommendation from the great theologian and teacher, the late Dr. Charles F. Stanley from His book, The Spirit-filled Life: Discover the Joy of Surrendering to the Holy Spirit.

A Spirit-filled life is a life of dependency on and sensitivity to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Distinguishing him from the messages around us is no easy task. But it is essential for our survival. And it is essential for the survival of the church.

Within you is housed the power necessary to face whatever life throws your way, for you are a recipient of the life of Christ. Through the person of the Holy Spirit, He longs to express his life through your personality, your lips and your hands. You have been granted the incredible privilege of being his representative on earth.

What will we do with the Holy Spirit?

The Holy Spirit

Meeting the Holy Spirit: Myths, Lies, and Misunderstandings about the Holy Spirit

July 31, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Danger ahead…MLMs

As we discussed last week, myths, lies, and misunderstandings (MLMs) are dangerous to the life and spiritual welfare of both believers and nonbelievers. This is especially true as it relates to the Holy Spirit.

Top MLMs about the Holy Spirit

Though not exhaustive, here are my top MLMs concerning the Holy Spirit. The source of this list are frequent questions I have received concerning the third person of the Trinity.

Myth: “The Holy Spirit is for Super Christians. He is not for everyone.”

Unfortunately, this myth has been around for quite some time due to religious and denominational differences. The devastating result of this myth is that people question whether they are indwelled by the Holy Spirit. In addition, this myth gives the perception that Christians receive the Holy Spirit based on their merit.

When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, Jesus gifts us with the Holy Spirit (Gal. 3:14). While we can’t control the Holy Spirit, we can, however, hinder His work. We can quench the Holy Spirit by refusing His guidance or grieve Him by continuing to do sinful acts.

As we surrender our will to God’s will, we will receive greater filling by the Spirit. “Filling” means we empty ourselves of self and make room for MORE of HIM. This results in the Fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23) and conforming to the image of Christ (Rom. 8:29).

Lie: “The Holy Spirit is actually our inner spirit guiding us on the path to our true purpose and destiny.”

It’s a path alright. A path to nowhere. This is perhaps the most egregious lie designed by the devil. It denies the reality of God. Satan’s MO is to always have man look to himself as the primary source of power and control. This is a “self-directed” belief (lie) that keeps people from coming to the “glorious gospel of Christ” (2 Cor. 4:4).

This strategy of Satan is intended to keep us bound, broken, and discouraged. We fail to reach God’s designed purpose for our lives. Why? Because we attempt to do what only God can do through His Holy Spirit in us (John 15:5; Eph. 3:20).

Misunderstanding: “The Holy Spirit is like an angel that God sends to help people.”

This belief reflects a lack of understanding of who God is and the work of the Trinity. First and foremost, God is one God with three distinct, eternal, coexistent persons. God is the Creator of all things (Genesis 1). Jesus, who is God’s only begotten Son is also God. And finally, the Holy Spirit, who is God’s Spirit is also God.

Regarding these three manifestations of our one, God, we must recognize their distinctions, but not separate them from one another. We will never understand all that God wants us to know about him without having full knowledge of each representation of him. [1]

Without a correct knowledge of God, we risk “being tossed to and fro by every wind of new teaching and influence, when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth” (Eph. 4:14, NLT). The best approach to deal with MLMs is to know the truth. Be alert to myths, lies, and misunderstandings that threaten our walk of faith.

Click here to learn how to correct my top MLMs

including books to help you in your spiritual journey

to draw closer to the Holy Spirit.

[1] Lead Me, Holy Spirit: Longing to Hear the Voice of God, Stormie Omartian

The Holy Spirit

Meeting the Holy Spirit: Myths, Lies, and Misunderstandings

July 23, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Guard against error!

Living in the 21st century requires that we be diligent and equip ourselves with correct information (Prov. 4:7). This guards us against error, especially, with regard to our spiritual beliefs.

Error often presents itself in the form of myths, lies, and misunderstandings (MLMs). This includes what we know about the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Today we will examine MLMs and how they can negatively impact our ability to have a correct view of God.

MLMs—the what and the why?

Myths, lies, and misunderstandings can be credited to many different things.

Myths are widely held but false beliefs or ideas. Myths are upheld to misrepresent the truth and to maintain certain beliefs.
Lies are statements that one knows are false, with the intent to deceive.
Misunderstandings stem from a failure to understand something correctly. A misunderstanding can be caused by an incorrect conception or a misinterpretation. It can also be mistakes of meaning or intent.

Myths and misunderstandings can be attributed to a general lack of knowledge. Even within our churches, discussions on the Holy Trinity are limited. Congregations need to be better informed on our relationship with each member of the God Head and how each of them impacts our lives.

Lies, of course, can be assigned to the father of lies, Satan. Satan has done an excellent job in intentionally deceiving people about who God is. We tend to make God smaller than He really is, to fit our human view. We compare our limited abilities with God’s infinite power. We do this to justify our decisions and behaviors (Jer. 17:9).

God is the true source for victorious living. It is in Him that we live and breathe and have our meaning (Acts 17:28). Our personal relationship with God provides us with courage and hope amid our struggles. It strengthens our faith and points us to the One who will sustain us in the most difficult of times. Therefore, we are able to persevere and do not “faint” (2 Cor. 4:17).

How to deal with MLMs?

What is the best approach to deal with myths, lies, and misunderstandings? Seek out and know the truth through spiritual discernment. The primary source of that truth is the Bible. The Holy Spirit leads us in all truth (John 16:13).

In this postmodern era, relativism offers the view that there is no absolute truth; truth is relative based on individual perceptions and considerations. Satan uses this thinking to continue his campaign to “blind our eyes” about God, His Son, and the Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 4:4).

We must seek truth in all we do and boldly denounce MLMs that keep others in darkness (Eph. 5:11). Myths, lies, and misunderstandings intent is always the same: to deceive, mislead, and misrepresent.

Next week we will explore MLMs about the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit

Meeting the Holy Spirit: From Head to Heart, Part 2

July 16, 2024 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

A transformative relationship.

To move the Holy Spirit from head to heart, we need a personal relationship with Him. With the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we begin that relationship that will end with us being conformed to the image of Christ (sanctification).

Conforming to Christ’s image is God’s desire for us. It is where our transformative relationship begins (Rom. 8:29). We as believers cannot accomplish sanctification. It is the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit. We can, however, help or hinder His work in us. It is important that we cooperate with the Holy Spirit.

What does the relationship look like?

Our relationship with the Spirit begins with letting the Holy Spirit fill us with His mind. Warren Wiersbe, noted theologian and teacher, gives insight into how our relationship with the Holy Spirit should operate.

It is not enough for us to have the Spirit; the Spirit must have us! Only then can He share with us the abundant, victorious life that can be ours in Christ. We have no obligation to the flesh, because the flesh has only brought trouble into our lives. We do have an obligation to the Holy Spirit, for it is the Spirit who convicted us, revealed Christ to us, and imparted eternal life to us when we trusted Christ. Because He is “the Spirit of Life,” He can empower us to obey Christ, and He can enable us to be more like Christ.[1]

Our personal relationship with the Holy Spirit requires that we empty ourselves OF OURSELVES. Then there is room for the filling of the Holy Spirit. Through His filling, we receive His power, His truth, His wisdom, and His love. Over time, our relationship with the Holy Spirit will begin to “squeeze out” things of this world and the flesh. Our desire for things “eternal” will take priority (Psa. 27:4). Our decisions and behaviors will reflect the Spirit’s presence in our life (good fruit).

It’s all about the right perspective.

As we attempt to “find our voice” and “discover who we are”, we might lose sight as to our real purpose in life, which can only be defined by God (Eph.2:20). The Holy Spirit helps us with our perspective. He is our Helper. He helps us to be who God created us to be. “God wants to lead you to places you cannot get to without Him, and He does that by the power of His Spirit.”[2]

[1] Warren Wiersbe, “To Be Series”.

[2] Stormie Omartian, Lead Me, Holy Spirit: Longing to Hear the Voice of God.

The Holy Spirit

Meeting the Holy Spirit: What I Learned AFTER Sunday School

July 9, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

What I never learned in Sunday School.

I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior at Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church at the ripe old age of nine years old. Although I can’t remember the circumstances leading to that decision, I do have my certificate of baptism to prove it. We ALWAYS attended Sunday School at the Epps House. We weren’t given a choice! It was Sunday School until we either married or went off to college. Looking back, that was pretty much the rule for most of the families in the community of Quindaro.

I later realized that although I attended Sunday School and church every week, I knew a lot about God, but only a thimbleful about the Holy Spirit. I didn’t understand how the Holy Spirit helped me in my walk with Jesus. Hey, I was only nine!

It would be much later in my life (forty something) that I would better understand that without the Holy Spirit, I would not be able to become the person God had designed me to be (Jer. 29:11). It is what I learned after Sunday School that made the difference.

How the Holy Spirit enters our life.

There are many scriptures in the New Testament that describe the ministries of the Holy Spirit. The most informative, for me, is found in the Gospel of John. It is here that Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, who will abide with His Disciples forever (John 14:16-17). And that same promise is ours today!

The work of the Spirit is described in greater detail in John 16:5-15. In this chapter we are introduced to His role in God’s plan of salvation.

And He, when He comes, will convict the world about [the guilt of] sin [and the need for a Savior], and about righteousness, and about judgment: about sin [and the true nature of it], because they do not believe in Me [and My message]; about righteousness [personal integrity and godly character], because I am going to My Father and you will no longer see Me. (John 16:8-10, Amplified)

The Holy Spirit exposes our personal sin and our need for a Savior (conviction). Jesus Christ is the “perfect sacrifice” to atone for our sin (redemption). Then the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us, making possible our new birth (regeneration). We are now ready to begin our faith walk (transformation). It is here that we become conformed to the image of Christ (Rom. 8:29).

The Spirit transforms our life.

Conforming to the image of Christ begins with sanctification. According to Webster, sanctification is defined as:

the state of being sanctified or made holy
the state of growing in divine grace as a result of Christian commitment after baptism or conversion

To sanctify means “to make holy.” We cannot share the holiness of God’s essential nature, but God does call us to be holy (1 Pet. 1:15-16). As we follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit and obey God’s Word, we “grow in divine grace” and are “set apart” to serve God. Our fleshly desires, the world’s influence, and Satan’s deception, no longer hold sway over our lives (Rom. 6:11).

Sanctification is a “transformational process” that will not end until we reach eternity. Every day we learn to trust the Holy Spirit to guide and direct; to inform our prayers; to illuminate the Bible. The Holy Spirit is the POWER OF GOD that changes lives. THAT’S what I learned after Sunday School!

The Holy Spirit

Meeting the Holy Spirit: From Head to Heart, Part 1

July 2, 2024 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

From Head to Heart

Last week we discussed the value of experiential versus intellectual knowledge, as we develop a personal relationship with the Lord. Each day, we should grow in our knowledge of the Lord (2 Pet. 3:18). When we do, we begin to move God from our head to our heart.

How do we do that? By reading God’s Word. This is His primary way of communicating with us. God’s Word is “living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, Amplified).

Although we may not hear God audibly, God does speak to us through His Holy Spirit. HIS Spirit speaks to OUR spirit. How well we hear Him is determined by, “are we trying to hear” (are we tuned in?) and “are we trying to listen” (is the volume turned up?)

The Spirit speaks

The Holy Spirit has always existed. As the third person of the Godhead, He was present during the creation of the world (Genesis 1:2). However, in the early Scriptures, the Spirit does not emerge as a “distinct personality”.

In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit was most commonly designated as “of God” or “of the Lord”. The Holy Spirit appears as God’s agent of creation, a mode of God’s interacting with humans (Gen. 6:3), God’s agent of revelation (Gen. 41:38; Num. 24:2), and a mode of empowering select leaders of God’s people such as Moses and Joshua (Num. 11:17-29; 27:18).[1]

In the books of Judges, Samuel, and Kings, supernatural activities of the Spirit begin to appear. We see God’s Spirit now emerging upon significant individuals such as judges, prophets, and kings. He becomes an energizing power, temporarily equipping leaders for physical prowess and military victory.

In the writings of the prophets, additional insights about the Holy Spirit are disclosed as they share a future time when the Spirit would empower all God’s followers through the creation of a “new spiritual community”. Most notable of these prophetic descriptions of the Holy Spirit’s ministry are found in Isaiah (Isa. 32:15; 34:16) and Ezekiel (Ezek. 36:24-27). One of the most notable is Joel 2:28-32, which Peter quotes at Pentecost (Acts 2:17-21).

In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit begins to dominate the theology and experience of the major New Testament witnesses. Throughout the gospel, the work of the Holy Spirit is acknowledged and celebrated. It begins with the Immaculate Conception (Luke 1:35), the anointing of Jesus (Matt.3:11) and concludes with the resurrection of Christ by God’s Spirit (Rom. 8:11).

It’s Personal Now

We are so fickled! We are easily impressed by the hottest fad, the newest technology, and the latest pop-culture entertainment! How foolish we are if we desire the things this world has to offer (1 John 2:17). None can compare with God and His gift of the Holy Spirit.

Unlike the Old Testament saints who experienced a temporary anointing of God’s Spirit, we now have Deity dwelling within us, 7 by 24, 365 days a year (2 Tim. 1:14). It’s personal now! The Holy Spirit is speaking! Are we listening?

[1] Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, “Holy Spirit”, 344.