InstaStudy

Hard to be Understood

This study explores biblical truths that can be challenging to grasp, particularly concerning the nature of God, the identity of Jesus Christ, and the experience of the Holy Spirit. We will examine scriptures to gain clarity and a deeper understanding of these profound mysteries.

1. The Singular Nature of God

1.1 God is One

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; Isaiah 44:6
  • Scripture consistently declares the singularity of God.
  • There is no God besides Him, neither before nor after.
  • This oneness is fundamental to understanding His nature.

1.2 God is Spirit

Verses: John 4:24; 2 Corinthians 3:17; Luke 24:39
  • God's essential nature is spiritual, not physical.
  • The Spirit of the Lord is the Lord Himself.
  • He is omnipresent and not confined to a physical form.

1.3 Understanding God's Titles and Manifestations

Verses: Isaiah 9:6; John 14:9; Colossians 2:9
  • God reveals Himself through various titles and roles.
  • "Father," "Son," and "Holy Spirit" describe different aspects of the one God's work and relationship with humanity.
  • In Jesus, the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily.

2. Jesus Christ: God Manifest in Flesh

2.1 Jesus is God

Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; 1 Timothy 3:16
  • The Word, who was God, became flesh in Jesus.
  • God Himself was manifest in the flesh.
  • Jesus is our great God and Savior.

2.2 Jesus is the Father

Verses: Isaiah 9:6; John 10:30; John 14:7-9
  • Jesus is called "Everlasting Father."
  • To see Jesus is to see the Father.
  • The Father and Jesus are one, not two separate beings.

2.3 Jesus is the Holy Spirit

Verses: 2 Corinthians 3:17; Romans 8:9-11; Philippians 1:19
  • The Lord is that Spirit.
  • The Spirit of Christ is the Spirit of God.
  • The Holy Spirit is the active presence of the one God, Jesus Christ.

3. The Holy Spirit: The Spirit of God

3.1 The Spirit is God's Presence

Verses: Psalm 139:7-8; Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46
  • The Holy Spirit is the omnipresent power and presence of God.
  • It is the Spirit of the Lord filling believers.
  • Speaking in other tongues is the initial sign of receiving the Spirit.

3.2 Receiving the Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 19:1-6; John 7:38-39
  • The promise of the Spirit is for all who believe and obey.
  • It is received through repentance and baptism in Jesus' name.
  • The Spirit empowers believers for service and witness.

3.3 The Spirit's Work

Verses: John 16:13-14; Romans 8:26; Galatians 5:22-23
  • The Spirit guides into all truth and glorifies Jesus.
  • The Spirit intercedes for us and helps in our weaknesses.
  • The Spirit produces fruit in the life of a believer.

4. The New Birth: Water and Spirit

4.1 The Necessity of the New Birth

Verses: John 3:3-7; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38
  • One must be born of water and the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God.
  • This is not merely a spiritual experience but involves specific acts of obedience.
  • It is essential for salvation and eternal life.

4.2 Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5
  • Water baptism is commanded for the remission of sins.
  • It is to be administered in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • This is the proper biblical formula for baptism.

4.3 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • The infilling of the Holy Spirit is a distinct experience.
  • The initial evidence is speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
  • This empowers believers for a victorious Christian life.