InstaStudy

The Divine Indwelling Mystery: How the Father Abides in the Son, and the Son Dwells in Believers on Earth Through the Living Presence and Power of the Holy Ghost.

This study explores the profound truth of God's singular nature and His manifestation in Jesus Christ, revealing how the divine essence of the Father abides fully in the Son, and how this same divine presence, through the Holy Ghost, comes to dwell within believers, empowering and transforming them.

1. The Singular Nature of God and His Manifestation

1.1 The One True God

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; Mark 12:29
  • There is only one God, and no other beside Him.
  • This singular God is the Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer of all.
  • Understanding God's oneness is foundational to comprehending His indwelling presence.

1.2 God Revealed in Christ

Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16
  • The invisible God became visible and tangible in Jesus Christ.
  • In Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
  • Jesus is the manifestation of the one God in human flesh.

2. The Father's Abiding Presence in the Son

2.1 The Spirit (Father) in the Flesh (Son)

Verses: John 14:10; John 10:30; John 17:21
  • Jesus declared that the Father was in Him, and He in the Father.
  • The works Jesus performed were the Father's works, demonstrating their inseparable unity.
  • The Father and the Son represent the one God in His divine Spirit and human manifestation.

2.2 Jesus as the Fullness of Deity

Verses: Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9; Isaiah 9:6
  • All divine attributes and perfections reside completely in Jesus.
  • He is the 'Mighty God' and 'Everlasting Father' revealed in human form.
  • There is no aspect of God's being that is not fully present and expressed in Christ.

3. The Son's Indwelling in Believers

3.1 Receiving the Spirit of Christ

Verses: Romans 8:9-10; Galatians 2:20; John 14:18-20
  • When believers receive the Holy Spirit, they receive the very Spirit of Jesus.
  • Through His Spirit, Christ Himself lives within us, guiding and empowering.
  • This indwelling establishes a personal and intimate union between Christ and the believer.

3.2 The Promise of His Presence

Verses: Matthew 28:20; John 14:23; 1 Corinthians 6:19
  • Jesus promised to be with His followers always, even to the end of the age.
  • God makes His dwelling place in those who love Him and obey His word.
  • Our bodies become sacred temples for the indwelling Spirit of God.

4. The Holy Ghost: God's Spirit Within Us

4.1 The Spirit of God, the Spirit of Jesus

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 19:2-6; Romans 8:9
  • The Holy Ghost is the active, dynamic presence of the one God.
  • It is the Spirit of Christ poured out upon all flesh.
  • Receiving the Holy Ghost is receiving God Himself to dwell within.

4.2 Power and Transformation Through the Spirit

Verses: Acts 1:8; Romans 8:11; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18
  • The indwelling Spirit empowers believers for witness and service.
  • It quickens and brings life to our mortal bodies.
  • The Spirit transforms us, progressively conforming us to the image of Christ.

5. The Implications of Divine Indwelling

5.1 Living a Christ-Centered Life

Verses: Galatians 2:20; Philippians 2:5; 1 John 4:4
  • Our lives are no longer our own, but Christ living through us.
  • We are called to possess the mind and attitude of Christ.
  • The greater One who lives within us enables us to overcome the world.

5.2 Assurance and Hope in His Presence

Verses: Ephesians 1:13-14; Romans 8:16; Colossians 1:27
  • The indwelling Spirit is our seal and guarantee of future inheritance.
  • The Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.
  • Christ in us is the glorious hope of eternal life and future glory.