InstaStudy

Before You Preach: Receive the Holy Ghost and Put to Death the Deeds of the Flesh

A comprehensive Bible study outline focusing on the essential spiritual preparation required for ministry, emphasizing the reception of the Holy Ghost with the initial evidence of speaking in tongues, and the daily crucifying of the flesh to walk in holiness.

1. The Essential Qualification: Receiving the Holy Ghost

1.1 The Promise of the Father

Verses: Acts 1:4-5; Luke 24:49
  • Jesus commanded His disciples to wait for the promise of the Father before beginning their public ministry.
  • The Holy Ghost is the indispensable source of spiritual power required to preach the gospel effectively.

1.2 The Initial Evidence of the Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46
  • Speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance is the biblical, initial physical sign of receiving the Holy Ghost.
  • This supernatural sign confirms the indwelling of God's Spirit in the believer, establishing their spiritual authority.

1.3 Empowered for Witnessing

Verses: Acts 1:8; Micah 3:8
  • Preaching without the Holy Ghost lacks the divine conviction needed to pierce the hearts of listeners.
  • The Spirit provides the boldness, wisdom, and utterance necessary to declare the full counsel of God.

2. Mortifying the Deeds of the Flesh

2.1 The Command to Walk in the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 5:16; Romans 8:1
  • Walking in the Spirit is the only biblical safeguard against fulfilling the lusts of the flesh.
  • A minister must maintain a daily walk free from condemnation by aligning their actions with the Spirit.

2.2 Putting to Death the Old Man

Verses: Romans 8:13; Colossians 3:5-9
  • Mortification of the flesh is an active, ongoing responsibility of the believer through the power of the Spirit.
  • Preachers must crucify personal ambition, pride, and carnal desires before attempting to stand in the pulpit.

2.3 The Fruit of the Spirit vs. Works of the Flesh

Verses: Galatians 5:19-23; Ephesians 5:9
  • The life of the preacher must manifest the fruit of the Spirit, which validates their calling and character.
  • True ministry is measured by Christlike holiness, not merely by spiritual gifts or oratorical talent.

3. Holiness and Vessel Preparation

3.1 Sanctification as a Requirement

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4; Hebrews 12:14
  • Sanctification is the will of God for every believer, especially those called to handle His holy Word.
  • Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord, nor can they effectively lead others into His presence.

3.2 Being a Vessel Unto Honor

Verses: 2 Timothy 2:20-21; 1 Corinthians 9:27
  • A preacher must purge themselves from dishonorable things to be a vessel sanctified and meet for the Master's use.
  • Strict self-discipline prevents the tragedy of preaching to others while becoming a castaway oneself.

3.3 The Danger of Carnal Ministry

Verses: Matthew 7:21-23; Leviticus 10:1-2
  • Operating in ministry without personal holiness and the Spirit's approval leads to ultimate rejection by God.
  • Offering 'strange fire'—ministry born of human talent or fleshly desire rather than the Spirit—brings spiritual ruin.