InstaStudy

The One True God: Granting the Holy Ghost to Sinners Who Believe in His Son's Gospel, Obey His Commandments, and Receive the Divine Gift of the Holy Ghost.

This study explores the singular nature of the Almighty God, who revealed Himself to humanity through His Son, Jesus Christ. We will examine the essential steps for sinners to receive salvation and the indwelling power of the Holy Ghost: faith in the gospel, obedience to divine commands, and the transformative experience of receiving God's Spirit.

1. The Revelation of the One True God

1.1 God is One

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; Isaiah 44:6; Isaiah 45:5-6; Mark 12:29; James 2:19
  • The Scriptures consistently declare there is only one God.
  • This one God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things.
  • There is no other God besides Him.

1.2 God Manifested in Christ

Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; John 10:30; John 14:7-9; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16
  • Jesus Christ is the full manifestation of the one God in human flesh.
  • In Jesus dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
  • The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are different roles or manifestations of the one God.

1.3 The Name of the One God

Verses: Zechariah 14:9; Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38; Acts 4:12; Colossians 3:17
  • God has one saving name, which is Jesus.
  • All authority and power are vested in the name of Jesus.
  • Salvation and all spiritual blessings are accessed through this name.

2. The Gospel of His Son: The Path to Salvation

2.1 Repentance Towards God

Verses: Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19; Acts 17:30
  • Repentance is a change of mind and heart, turning away from sin and towards God.
  • It involves acknowledging one's sinfulness and seeking God's forgiveness.
  • True repentance leads to a desire for a new life in Christ.

2.2 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:5; Colossians 2:12
  • Water baptism is an essential step of obedience for the remission of sins.
  • It must be administered by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • This act identifies the believer with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.

2.3 The Necessity of the New Birth

Verses: John 3:3-7; Titus 3:5
  • Jesus taught that one must be born of water and of the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God.
  • This 'new birth' encompasses both water baptism and the reception of the Holy Ghost.
  • It signifies a spiritual transformation and new life in Christ.

3. Obedience to His Commandments: Living a Holy Life

3.1 The Call to Holiness

Verses: Leviticus 11:44; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14; 2 Corinthians 7:1
  • God calls His people to live a life separated from sin and dedicated to Him.
  • Holiness is not merely an outward act but an inward transformation.
  • Without holiness, no one will see the Lord.

3.2 Walking in the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 5:16; Galatians 5:22-23; Romans 8:1; Romans 8:13-14
  • Believers are to be led by the Spirit, not by the desires of the flesh.
  • The fruit of the Spirit is evidence of a Spirit-filled life.
  • Walking in the Spirit empowers us to overcome sin and live righteously.

3.3 Continuing in Doctrine and Fellowship

Verses: Acts 2:42; Hebrews 10:25; 1 John 1:7
  • Believers are to steadfastly continue in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship.
  • Regular assembly with other believers is crucial for spiritual growth and encouragement.
  • Fellowship in the light promotes purification and strengthens faith.

4. Receiving the Divine Gift of the Holy Ghost

4.1 The Promise of the Spirit

Verses: Joel 2:28-29; Acts 1:4-5; Acts 2:38-39; Luke 24:49
  • The Holy Ghost is a divine promise from God to all who believe.
  • It is the power from on high that Jesus commanded His disciples to wait for.
  • This promise is for all generations, near and far.

4.2 The Experience of Receiving the Holy Ghost

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • The initial evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost is speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
  • This experience is distinct from water baptism and is a spiritual infilling.
  • It is a direct encounter with God's Spirit empowering the believer.

4.3 The Purpose and Power of the Holy Ghost

Verses: Acts 1:8; John 14:26; John 16:13; Romans 8:26
  • The Holy Ghost empowers believers to be witnesses for Christ.
  • It guides, teaches, and brings remembrance of Christ's words.
  • The Spirit intercedes for us and strengthens us in our weaknesses.