InstaStudy

Understanding the Holy Spirit

A study of the Holy Spirit's role in salvation and the life of a believer.

1. The Holy Spirit in Salvation

1.1 The Promise of the Spirit

Verses: John 14:16-17; Acts 2:38-39; Luke 24:49
  • Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to His disciples.
  • This promise was for all believers, not just the apostles.
  • The Holy Spirit is the power from on high.

1.2 The Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Christ

Verses: 2 Corinthians 3:17; Romans 8:9-11; Galatians 2:20
  • The Holy Spirit is not separate from God, but is the manifestation of God's presence.
  • The Spirit is the same Spirit that dwelt in Jesus.
  • Through the Spirit, Christ dwells in us.

2. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit

2.1 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:5
  • Baptism is an essential part of obedience to God's Word.
  • Baptism must be administered in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
  • This is the pattern established in the book of Acts.

2.2 Receiving the Gift of the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • The initial sign of receiving the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongues.
  • This experience empowers believers for service.
  • It is a distinct experience from water baptism.

3. The Holy Spirit in the Believer's Life

3.1 Living a Spirit-Filled Life

Verses: John 16:13; Romans 8:13-14; Galatians 5:16
  • The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth.
  • The Spirit empowers us to overcome sin.
  • We must walk in the Spirit to fulfill God's will.

3.2 The Fruit of the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 5:9; Romans 6:22
  • The fruit of the Spirit is evidence of a transformed life.
  • These qualities demonstrate Christ's character in us.
  • Cultivating these virtues is a lifelong process.

3.3 The Gifts of the Spirit

Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 1 Corinthians 14:12; 1 Corinthians 14:1
  • The gifts of the Spirit are given to edify the church.
  • Each believer has a unique role to play in the body of Christ.
  • We should desire and seek after spiritual gifts.

4. The Holy Spirit's Comfort and Advocacy

4.1 The Holy Spirit as Comforter

Verses: John 14:26; Romans 8:26; Ephesians 3:16
  • The Holy Spirit provides comfort in times of sorrow and difficulty.
  • He intercedes for us with groanings that cannot be uttered.
  • The Spirit strengthens us in our inner being.

4.2 The Holy Spirit as Advocate

Verses: Romans 8:26-27; 1 John 2:1; Romans 8:15-16
  • The Holy Spirit pleads our case before God.
  • He helps us in our weakness.
  • The Spirit assures us of our adoption as children of God.