The Holy Spirit
An outline for studying the Holy Spirit.
1. The Identity of the Holy Spirit
1.1 The Spirit as God's Presence and Power
Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 10:44-46
- The Spirit is not merely a force, but the very presence of God.
- The Spirit is the power of God in action, working in and through believers.
1.2 The Spirit as God's Divine Nature
Verses: John 14:16-18; 2 Corinthians 5:19
- The Spirit is the divine nature of God manifested in the earth.
- The Spirit is the means by which God dwells in and interacts with humanity.
2. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit
2.1 The Initial Sign: Speaking in Tongues
Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:46; Acts 19:6
- Speaking in tongues is the initial, unmistakable sign of Spirit baptism.
- This experience empowers believers for service and witness.
2.2 The Filling of the Spirit
Verses: Ephesians 5:18; Acts 4:31
- The Spirit fills believers, enabling them to live a life of holiness.
- This infilling is not a one-time event, but a continuous experience.
3. The Work of the Holy Spirit in Believers
3.1 Empowerment for Holy Living
Verses: Romans 8:13-14; Galatians 5:16
- The Spirit empowers believers to live a life of holiness and righteousness.
- The Spirit guides believers into all truth, revealing the will of God.
3.2 Gifts of the Spirit
Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Romans 12:6-8
- The Spirit bestows gifts upon believers for the edification of the church.
- These gifts are diverse and should be used to build up the body of Christ.
3.3 Fruit of the Spirit
Verses: Galatians 5:22-23
- The Spirit produces fruit in the lives of believers, demonstrating the character of Christ.
- This fruit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
4. The Holy Spirit's Work in the World
4.1 Conviction of Sin
Verses: John 16:8; Acts 2:37
- The Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment.
- The Spirit draws people to Christ, revealing their need for salvation.
4.2 Regeneration and Transformation
Verses: Titus 3:5; John 3:3-8
- The Spirit regenerates and transforms believers, giving them new life in Christ.
- This new birth is essential for entering the kingdom of God.