Holy Spirit and His Written Word

The Holy Spirit – And His Written Word – 1 Corinthians 2:1-16

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Note: Last week we looked into the Holy spirit in relation to patriarchs and to those under the Old Covenant. This week we will look at the bigger picture of the Holy Spirit and Scripture overall.

The Bible claims to be from God (2 Timothy 3:16). Either it is or it is not. If we can place faith and confidence in one area of declaration by God, we should also be able to place confidence in other areas of His claims. The relationship between the Spirit and the Bible or written word is tremendously important.

Opening Question — Get Us Thinking:

Have you discovered your ancestor’s love letters? How did they give you a new insight into their relationship?

God uses the Bible to communicate truth and hopefully it is passed on to each generation. This lesson will deal primarily with the areas of Revelation, Inspiration, Canonicity, and Transmission. What do we learn about God? What do we learn about human beings? God desperately wants a relationship with you and me. Let’s discuss the meanings of the words: Revelation, Inspiration, Canonicity, and Transmission.

Research Questions — “Dig Deeper” to find God’s Word & Will.

First, let’s get a handle on “Revelation” How do we use the term “revelation”? Revelation means the "origin and giving out" of Biblical truth. The Hebrew word galah and the Greek word apokalupsis both suggest the process of unveiling or uncovering. The revelation of scripture began with God. He chose through whom His word would come to His creation. In the Old Testament, individuals such as Moses, Joshua, David, Jeremiah, and Malachi were selected to be the instruments through whom His word would come. Individuals such as Matthew, John, Paul, Peter, and James were human instruments through whom God worked to bring His New Testament message. One significant thing to remember is that the message or messages always originated with God. The messages came through human beings, but the revelation originated with God, not man. The revelation would be consistent with His will.

Now, let’s talk about “Inspiration.” What is the best way to use the term inspiration and how does the Bible use the Greek word theopneustos? Inspiration refers specifically to the "reception and recording" of Biblical truth. The Greek word theopneustos occurs in 2 Timothy 3:16 and translates to "God breathed." Paul's declaration is that all scripture is "God breathed." The message is "breathed out" by God and "breathed in" to selected individuals in both the Old and New Testament periods.

The words "revelation" and "inspiration" may both have a specific and a general usage. How would you describe the difference in the two uses of “revelation” and “inspiration”? In specific usage, revelation refers to the origin or giving out of Biblical truth. Inspiration refers to the reception and recording of Biblical truth. When used in a general sense, revelation can refer to the total process: the word originating with God and coming through selected individuals to the intended audience. A good example of revelation used in a general sense is Ephesians 3:1-6. Inspiration of scripture speaks of the entire process of communicating the message of God to man. A good example of inspiration used in a general sense is 2 Timothy 3:16. More about the revelation-inspiration process can be discovered by looking at different theories of how the Bible is inspired by God and the different proofs for believing that the Bible is what it claims to be—God's message to man.

How would you describe the process of inspiration? Here are a few theories of Inspiration. Hopefully looking at several theories of inspiration will help refine our thinking. These have been discussed through the ages.

• Natural Theory suggests that the Bible was written by men who had unusual natural ability. This theory states that the Bible is inspired only in a sense similar to Shakespeare. This theory reduces the Bible to the level of man and leads to the conclusion that scripture is subject to error.
• Dynamic Theory suggests that the Spirit of God gave the thought and individual writers put that thought in their own words.
• Neo-Orthodox Theory states that the Bible "becomes" the word of God upon the basis of a personal encounter with truth.
• Dictation Theory or Machine-Gun Theory says that the message originated with God, but in the communication process He used individuals as one would use a machine gun or robot. This theory makes no allowance for differences in style, syntax, and vocabulary.
• Plenary or Plenary Verbal Theory seems to me to be the Biblical view of inspiration. The Latin word plenus means "full" or "complete." The word "verbal" means "by words." This theory states that the entire communication process from God through uniquely-selected individuals was under the superintendence of the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21). The Plenary Theory allows for differences in such things as personality, background, education, and experiences. However, the Holy Spirit took all of these things into consideration when revealing God's word. The message of scripture originated with God and came through different individuals. It came without error. The Plenary Theory allows for differences in writing styles etc. but still maintains the deep conviction that all scripture is "God breathed" (2 Timothy 3:16). The Bible claims to be inspired of God. My deep conviction is that it is.

What are some of the strong and weak points about these “theories” above? Is there a better way in your mind to express inspiration?

In talking with others about inspiration, how would you help people understand the Bible’s accuracy and its authenticity? Proofs of Inspiration are helpful. Although many "proofs of inspiration" could be considered, I want to suggest only a few:

• Unity of the Bible. How do you explain some 40 different writers over a period of about 1500 years producing a writing that is in agreement? The answer is one common source-the Holy Spirit of God.
• Indestructibility of the Bible. Pagans, infidels, modernists, political figures, emperors, and religious leaders have made sincere attempts to destroy the Bible. All attempts have been foiled. It remains a best seller.
• Fulfilled Prophecy. This is strong evidence. Predictions are made in scripture which do not come to pass for hundreds of years. They are fulfilled exactly how scripture predicted (cf. Micah 5:2; Isaiah 44:28; Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:16).
• Relevance to Human Needs. Whatever the human need, God's word speaks to that need. The need may relate to companionship, peace, fear, trial, or death. The Bible deals with our every need. Scripture speaks loudly.

Other proofs could be included: the historical and scientific accuracy of the Bible; the universality of the Bible; the tremendous ability which scripture has to bring changes to individual lives.

These are but a few of the proofs for accepting the Bible as the revealed word from God.

What is “Canonicity”? Canonicity is an additional link in the chain of getting the message of God down to man. This process has to do with the recognition and collection of the inspired writings. This is quite a process that is beyond the scope of this class. However, weighty evidence exists for accepting the 66 books which we presently have in our English Bible. It is faith-building to me that the Holy Spirit has made it possible for research to prove the accuracy of the Bible over many years.

On top of canonicity , the process of Transmission across different languages and times shows how much God loves all people. Transmission is the process by which the inspired writings have been translated from the original languages to different modern languages, such as English. What are the languages of the original writings the Holy Spirit gave the writers? The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew and Aramaic. The New Testament was written in Koine Greek. The Bibles which most of us have today are translations of the Biblical text. The present-day English Bible has integrity. Many good English translations are available. May we never take this tremendous blessing for granted.

The Holy Spirit works through the revealed word today in leading people to obey Jesus. The gospel is the power of God to save (Romans 1:16). The word of God is the seed of the kingdom (Luke 8:11). James declares that we are "given birth through the word of truth" (James 1:18). He further declares that we should "humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you" (James 1:21). Jesus says that His word (through the Spirit) is the basis of judgment (John 12:48). Paul declares that God calls people unto Himself by means of the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:14). The Apostle John closes out the New Testament writings by declaring that God's inspired word will be the basis of final judgment for every person who has ever lived (Revelation 20:12-15).

All of these passages connect the Holy Spirit and the written word. It is the Spirit who inspired the writing of all the books of the Bible. It is the Spirit who inspired all of the Old Testament and New Testament prophets who "spoke" for God.

In Summary, God has revealed Himself in creation (Genesis 3:8-24). He has revealed Himself in nature (Psalms 19:1-4). His revelation has been seen in the person of Jesus (Colossians 2:9). God can certainly be seen in His revealed word (1 Corinthians 2:6-13). That word came to us by the Holy Spirit. The entire process of communication involved Revelation, Inspiration, Canonicity, and Transmission. A study of the relationship between the Holy Spirit and the written word is one of tremendous importance. God's word is truth (John 17:17). God's word must be accepted as final authority in all areas of religious thought (Romans 10:17; James 1:21; Revelation 20:12-15).

Reflective Questions for a Response — Live it today.

• God's word is the basis for final judgment. What does this mean to you?
• I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you in this study? How will you apply it to your life this week?
• How does this equip us to be better disciples and help empower us to “make disciples”?
• You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this?

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“In regard to this great book, I have but to say, it is the best gift God has given to man. All the good Savior gave to the world was communicated through this book. But for it we could not know right from wrong. All things most desirable for man's welfare, here and hereafter, are to be found portrayed in it. — Abraham Lincoln

Holy Spirit in The Old Testament

The Holy Spirit – The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament--Genesis 1:1-2; 2 Timothy 3:14-17; 2 Peter 1:12-21

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Note: Last week we observed how God’s word shows how the Holy Spirit has personality. He is not an impersonal force or it, but a person. The role of the Holy Spirit within the Godhead is consistent. His role revealed in the New Testament (John 16:1-15) in inspiration and revelation is consistent— though in the Old Testament the role is incomplete, compared to that role revealed in the New Testament.

The most common word translated "spirit" in the Old Testament is the word ruach. This word has several usages in addition to referring to the Holy Spirit.

Opening Question — Get Us Thinking:

Through the different time periods or dispensations, the covenants have different ways of relating between God and man. What are the difference in the way the Godhead has related to human beings? What do we learn about God? What do we learn about human beings?

Research Questions — “Dig Deeper” to find God’s Word & Will.

The identity of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament includes names or references to the Holy Spirit. “The Spirit of God” (total of 14 times) “The Spirit of the LORD” (total of 25 times) “The Spirit of the Lord Jehovah” (Isaiah 61:1) “My Spirit” (Genesis 6:3; Joel 2:29) “The finger of God” (Exodus 8:19; 31:18; Deuteronomy 9:10)

There is only one Spirit revealed in the two testaments (Luke 4:18; Acts 2:17; Ephesians 4:4)

The Bible is our guide to understanding the one God, so what are some of the different ways the word ruach is used in the Old Testament?

Let’s take a look at some of the different ways ruach is used.

First, evil spirits are translated by ruach. "God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the men of Shechem" (Judges 9:23). "The Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord terrorized him" (1 Samuel 16:14). "An evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul, and he raved in the midst of the house, while David was playing the harp" (1 Samuel 18:10). "Now therefore, behold, the Lord has put a deceiving spirit in the mouth of all these your prophets" (1 Kings 22:23). "The Lord has mixed within her a spirit of distortion" (Isaiah 19:14).

Second, Spirit (ruach) may refer to man (mankind). The animating force or breath of life may be described (1 Samuel 30:12). Man's emotional qualities are described by "spirit" (Genesis 41:8; Joshua 5:1; 1 Samuel 1:15). The attitude or mind of man is referred to by ruach (Psalms 51:10, 17; Proverbs 16:18). The eternal part of man is also described by the same word (Ecclesiastes 12:7).

Another is in reference to the Holy Spirit. Let’s especially note the different usages of ruach by mentioning several areas of activity in which the Spirit was engaged during the Old Testament period.

How does the Holy Spirit relate to the word Elohim? There are a number of activities of the Spirit in the Old Testament. The Spirit was active in the creation of the world (Genesis 1:1-2). The most common word for God in Genesis is Elohim. This word suggests a plurality of persons. "Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness" (Genesis 1:26). The Holy Spirit was one of the personalities present when everything that can be seen was created. This means that the Spirit was a part of the creative will when Adam and Eve were created.

Does scripture indicate that the Old Testament, as well as the New Testament, was inspired of God? The Old Testament is the inspired word of God, as is the New Testament (2 Peter 1:20-21). The Spirit is given credit for the process of inspiration (1 Peter 1:10-11). All of the writers from Moses to Malachi wrote their messages under the supervision of the Holy Spirit, including all of the statements which promised a future fulfillment. One of the strong arguments for belief in the Bible as being from God is prophecy and fulfillment. Though a number of years separated prophecy and fulfillment, the validity of the prophetic process is not affected.

God's Spirit is active throughout the Old Testament in selecting and providing for His people. I call this area "God's providence." Providence may be seen in God's selection of Abraham for the "three-fold" promise that was assured him (Genesis 12:1-3). This providence may be seen in the selection of David to be King of Israel (1 Samuel 16:1). This young man was an unlikely choice to be king.

The selection of Esther to be queen in the Medo-Persian Empire is another example of God's selection and provision (Esther 2:15-16; 4:14). The Psalmist proclaims that the Spirit is actively at work in the world. After stating that we cannot hide from God's Spirit, he proclaims, "Even there your hand will lead me. And your right hand will lay hold of me" (Psalms 139:10). The Spirit that was active during the Old Testament period is the same Spirit that is active today.

What were the two purposes intended in God’s selection of Israel? God chose the nation of Israel for one primary purpose-that through this nation Jesus as Messiah would come. A secondary purpose in this selection process was to assure that His kingdom would be established (Daniel 2:44). In the fulfillment of these two promises, selected individuals are specifically said to have been assisted by the Spirit. Moses was empowered by the Spirit. He was instructed to gather seventy men to assist in the work, and God said, "I will put the same Spirit upon them" (Numbers 11:17). A key thought in Judges is that the Spirit was with the different leaders. In reference to Othniel, the first judge of Israel, it is stated, "And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel" (Judges 3:10). God's Spirit was upon Gideon (Judges 6:34). The same was true with Jephthah (Judges 11:29). The Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon Samson (Judges 14:6) and upon King Saul (1 Samuel 11:6). The Spirit also came upon David (1 Samuel 16:13).

What was the most significant gift from the Spirit in the Old Testament period? In the Old Testament period, the most significant gift from the Spirit was super-natural knowledge that was given for prophesying. A prophet was one who "spoke forth" for God. Prophecy was "spoken forth" under the empowerment and guidance of the Holy Spirit. King Saul prophesied by the power of the Spirit (1 Samuel 10:10). When giving his last recorded words, David said, "The Spirit of the Lord spoke by me. And His word was on my tongue" (2 Samuel 23:2). The prophet Micah proclaimed that he was full of power because of the Spirit of God (Micah 3:8). Ezekiel said, "The Spirit entered me and set me on my feet" (Ezekiel 2:2).

The word of the Spirit through the individual prophet might be one of comfort, promise, threat, or condemnation, but it was always a sure word because it was a word from the Spirit of God. Without the Spirit, no amount of intellectual power, no amount of administrative ability nor the capacity to toil would suffice. It was God's Spirit that was enabling the prophets to do the job God needed done.

What was the major difference between the activity of the Spirit in the Old Testament and the activity of the Spirit in the New Testament? The major difference between the activity of the Spirit in the Old Testament and the activity of the Spirit during the New Testament era is the difference between "with" and "in." In the Old Testament the Spirit worked with the people, whereas in the New Testament the Spirit worked in people.

In Summary, God's Spirit during the Old Testament period was with individuals in the sense of selecting, empowering, guiding, and rewarding. The Spirit was all of these things to the first-century apostles and prophets, with one major addition. From Acts 2:38 onward, the Holy Spirit is promised as a gift from God to all of the obedient. This was not a part of the Old Testament system of Law. The promise of the Spirit as an indweller was made during the earthly ministry of Jesus (John 7:38-39; 14:16-17), but the promise was first realized on Pentecost (Acts 2:38). One lesson later will be devoted to the Spirit as an indweller.

Reflective Questions for a Response — Live it today.

• Does scripture indicate that the Old Testament, as well as the New Testament, was inspired of God?
• I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you in this passage? How will you apply it to your life this week?
• How does this equip us to be better disciples and help empower us to “make disciples”?
• You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this?

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“Living one day in the Spirit is worth more than a thousand lived in the flesh.”

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Checkout the video recordings from Sunday’s sermons at

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBjcIGdV9LWdkqwQ5oso0rA

Holy Spirit and Personalty

Holy Spirit

Personality

Matthew 3:16-17; 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14

Note: This series of lessons will not answer every question, but give a basic overview.

Opening Question — Get Us Thinking:

The Gospel of Mark left us reflecting on the resurrection and the signs given to the apostles. When it comes to understanding God, what questions do you have about the Holy Spirit you wish you had an answer?

After reading the scriptures above, what do we learn about God?

Reflect on what Jesus told his disciples about the “Comforter” in John to which chapters 14-16, what do we learn about man?

The Biblical Concept of God

Scripture begins with an emphasis upon God. "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). Scripture ends with that same emphasis upon God (Revelation 22:16-18). Does the human mind have the capacity to understand the concept of God? I think yes. So in this study a diligent attempt will be made to explain the Biblical concept of God.

Attempts to Explain God

Three words occur in writings today that will help in the pursuit of understanding the concept of God. First, tritheism is the belief that three gods formed a union. The tritheist sees God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit each as God. However, they are not seen as a unity (oneness) but as three separate beings who have voluntarily formed a union or team.

Second, monism is the belief that only one God exists but also only one personality exists. Sometimes that one personality is the Father, sometimes it is Jesus, and sometimes it is the Holy Spirit.

Monotheism is the belief that there is one God but three distinct personalities. The Bible states that God is one (Deuteronomy 6:4). This refers to His deity (who God is) and to His divinity (characteristics and attributes). Scripture also refers to each of the three personalities as God.

The Father is God (Romans 1:7).

Jesus is God (Colossians 2:9).

The Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4).

Thus, monotheism is the concept of God that is revealed in scripture. God is one, but three distinct personalities constitute that oneness. One of the better ways to see this is to examine passages where all three personalities are mentioned: Matthew 3:16-17; 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14 This work will focus attention upon the Holy Spirit, one of the personalities of the Godhead.

With these basic thoughts, lets do more research into the scriptures as “God breathed” words that help us know more about God.

Research Questions — “Dig Deeper” to find God’s Word & Will.

The Bible is our guide to understanding God, so what are some examples of references to the Spirit in Scripture?

The Spirit or Holy Spirit ("Holy Ghost" if you are reading from the King James Version) is referred to in scripture by the following designations:

· Spirit of God (Genesis 1:1; Matthew 3:16) Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3)

· Spirit of the Lord (Acts 5:9)

· Spirit of the Lord God (Isaiah 61:1)

· Spirit of Christ (Romans 8:9)

· Holy Spirit of God (Ephesians 4:30)

· The Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19)

· Spirit of Truth (John 14:17)

The Biblical Concept of the Spirit

The original language the Spirit chose to use in Greek was pneuma is translated as spirit. This word, however, can refer to the human spirit (Acts 7:59), to angels as ministering spirits from God (Hebrews 1:14), to unclean spirits that existed during the earthly ministry of Jesus (Mark 5:13), to deceiving spirits that are under the control of Satan (1 Timothy 4:1), or to the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). Paul says there is but one Spirit Ephesians 4:4). There is but one Holy Spirit, as there is but one Jesus and one God the Father. Many spirits exist, but only one Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is described in scripture by the use of the masculine pronoun (John 14:16-17; Romans 8:26). The Spirit is not an "it," but a "He." Scripture further declares that the Spirit has all the attributes or characteristics that the Father and Jesus have. He is referred to as eternal (Hebrews 9-14) The Spirit has all knowledge (omniscient) (1 Corinthians 2:10). He is all powerful (omnipotent) (Psalms 104:30). He is present in all locales (omnipresent) (Psalms 139:7-10).

The Spirit is not referred to as the "third person" in the Godhead. Deity and divinity demand equality. There is purpose, order, and arrangement in the Godhead There is not inequality, The Holy Spirit is no less God than is the Father or Jesus. There are differences when considering purpose, order, arrangement, or areas of primary responsibility. But a complete equality exists in the Godhead as it relates to deity and divinity.

Does the Holy Spirit have personality? The Spirit is referred to in scripture by the masculine pronoun "He" (John 14:16-17; Romans 8:26) The Spirit is not an "it" but a person. He possesses all of the qualities of "person" or "personality." These qualities include life thought, volition, action, individuality, character, and influence. Because the Greek word for Spirit (pneuma) is neuter gender, some have concluded that the Spirit is a mere breath, force, or influence. This is not the case. The Spirit is a person. He is God (Acts 5:3-4). Whatever may be said of the Father or the Son in the area of personality, may also be said of the Spirit.

What are some of the characteristics of personality? We know that the Holy Spirit is a person because He has "marks of personality." He has a mind (Romans 8:2/) by which to make decisions after deliberation (1 Corinthians 12-11) The Spirit possesses knowledge and has a knowledge relative to both heaven and earth (1 Corinthians 2-11) The Spirit has a will which He exercises to the glory of God and to the benefit of man (1 Corinthians 12:11). The decisions relative to the performing of miracles were always made by the Spirit. It was His decision as to when miracles were to be performed, upon whom they were to be earned out and the scope of the miracle itself (how extensive was it to be manifested) (1 Corinthians 12:11). The Spirit speaks (1 Timothy 4:1). He speaks today through the Bible-the revealed word from God. The Spirit spoke during the Old Testament period through chosen men and women. He did the same during the time when the New Testament prophets and apostles were active in the ministry of revelation and inspiration (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21).

Does the Holy Spirit have any emotion? Emotion is also a characteristic of personality. The Spirit has the ability to love (Romans 15:30) which suggests affection and decision. Scripture states that God is love (1 John 4:8, 16). The Holy Spirit is God; therefore, the Holy Spirit loves as the Father and the Son love. We should begin to think of the term "God" more inclusive of the Godhead, not just a reference to the Father.

The Spirit also has the ability to feel grief (Ephesians 4:30; Isaiah 63:10). In the context of Ephesians 4:25-32, the sins of anger, slander, bitterness, laziness, malice, and stealing are actions which grieve the Holy Spirit. A parent suffers grief when a child misbehaves. The same is true of the Spirit. When one of the followers of Jesus does not behave in the way he or she is called to do, the Spirit grieves. Perhaps we should think of sin being more than breaking a law, but the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit’s being “Heartbroken.”

What are some of the works of the Spirit? We may also see that the Holy Spirit is a person through the works attributed to Him. He bears witness (testifies) concerning Jesus (John 15:26). Also, the Spirit teaches (John 14:26). Specifically, this passage refers to the Spirit's teaching of the apostles and prophets by means of inspiration. They were to speak the message and to write it down for others. Thus, the Spirit led these inspired individuals into all truth (John 16:13).

God's spirit makes intercession for His children (Romans 8:26). He takes our groanings, which we are unable to put into words, before the throne of God. We have assurance that in heights of joy or in depths of sorrow, God hears and understands, even though we may not be able to put feelings into words.

The Spirit also works in providence (Romans 8:28). This is one of the most comforting passages in scripture because it says that God is working in the present. He is taking things that may not be good in and of themselves and is working these out for our ultimate or eternal good. Paul declares that we can know how this is occurring!

Because the Spirit bears witness, inspires the apostles and prophets, makes intercession, and works providentially for our ultimate good, His works attest that He is a person. There is no change in emphasis, personality-wise, between Romans 8:26 and 28. The Holy Spirit is at work on behalf of the children of God.

What additional things do you see the Spirit doing that is mentioned in scripture? He may be resisted (Acts 7:51). This was the sin which Stephen pointed out to the Jews. The Spirit may be blasphemed (Matthew 12:32). This is the only sin mentioned in scripture that does not carry the possibility of forgiveness from God. Individuals may lie to the Spirit (Acts 5:3). Ananias and Sapphira were guilty of lying to the Spirit. Lying to the Spirit about their material gifts to God cost them at least their physical lives.

The Spirit also invites individuals to come to God for forgiveness of sins (Revelation 22:17). The invitation extended is to take of the "water of life without cost." The "without cost" is a reference to our not being able to earn or deserve it. It certainly came with cost-the death of Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21). The Spirit also comforts or helps (John 14:16-18). This context states that Jesus, before going back to heaven, promised that He would ask the Father for another comforter or helper. The one He was asking the Father for would be one like Himself. This promised comforter would abide "with" them and would in time be "in" them (John 14:17; 7:38-39).

In summary, the Holy Spirit is a person, not an "it." He has all the qualities or marks of personality. His works mentioned in scripture indicate He is a person, not a mere force, breath, or influence. He is not the "third person" of the Godhead. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are the three personalities that comprise the Godhead, The concept of "God" should always include all three personalities.

Reflective Questions for a Response — Live it today.

· Have you treated the Holy Spirit like an inanimate object or force? Hopefully you realize He has emotions too and will respond to Him.

· I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you in this passage? How will you apply it to your life this week?

· How does this equip us to be better disciples and help empower us to “make disciples”?

· You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this?

“The principal work of the Spirit is loving faith & trust ... the principal exercise of faith is prayer.

Holy Spirit - How the word "Spirit" is used in the Bible

How the Word Spirit Is Used in the Bible

The Word "Spirit" Literally Signifies "the Breath"—
  A. Both the Hebrew and the Greek words mean a breath or blast of air (any lexicon will confirm).
  B. It is used to signify the cycle of respiration (Job 9:18; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; John 20:22).
  C. The breath and life are closely associated (Job 12:9-10; 33:4; 34:14; Acts 17:25; Revelation 13:15).
  D. A man is dead when he has breathed his last (Psalm 104:29; 135:15-17).

The Word "Spirit" May Signify the Invisible, Immaterial, Eternal Spirit of Man—
  A. A man is dead when he breathes his last (Genesis 25:17; Job 3:11; John 19:30, Mark 15:37,44).
  B. The departing of the spirit and the final breath are associated in death (James 2:26; Acts 7:59).
  C. The word spirit signifies our inner man (2 Corinthians 4:16), the heart (Romans 2:28-29), the
mind (Romans 7:22-8:16).
  D. The inner man, as the seat of our intellect, affections and will, serves God (Romans 1:9).

The Word "Spirit" May Identify an Angel, a Demon or the Devil—
  A. The angels of God are "ministering spirits" (Hebrews 1:7,14; cf Psalms 103:20-21; 104:4).
  B. A demon is an "unclean spirit" (Matthew 12:43-46; Luke 4:33; Mark 1:23-26; 5:2, 8,12).
  C. Satan is "the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience" (Ephesians 2:2).

The Word "Spirit" May Refer to the Very Essence of God—
  A. God "is Spirit" (John 4:24); He exists outside the material universe.
  B. He is "invisible" (Colossians 1:16; Romans 1:20; cf. I Timothy 6:16; John 1:18; 1 John 2:5).
  C. The Holy Spirit "is Spirit" because the Bible says He is God (Acts 5:3-4).
  D. In John 4:24 "in spirit and in truth" refers to the true spiritual worship which would be revealed
by the Holy Spirit in contrast to the carnal ordinances of the Law (cf. John 3:6; 6:63).

The Word "Spirit" May Refer to an Attitude—
  A. There are several indisputable examples (Galatians 6:1; Romans 11:8; 2 Corinthians 4:13;
Ephesians 1:17-18; 4:23; 2 Timothy 1:7).
  B. Two passages often misunderstood because this fact not observed:
    1. In 1 John 4:6 "the spirit of truth" is not the Holy Spirit (cf. John 14:17) but the mind which is under the sway of the Truth revealed by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:3; 1 John 4:2-3). The "spirit of antichrist" is not a demon or the Devil, but rather, a mind lost to the error which denies the incarnation (1 John 4:1).
    2. In Galatians 4:6 "the Spirit of His Son" is not the Holy Spirit but the heart of the adopted child of God (v. 5) who in faith can come boldly to the Father (cf. Romans 8:14-16; Mark 14:36). This passage does not teach a personal indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the believer.

The Word "Spirit" May Refer to the Holy Spirit as a Person Possessing Deity—
  A. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead (2 Corinthians 13:14; Acts 5:4; 1 John 5:4-9).
  B. Often the Holy Spirit is mentioned with respect to His unique role within the Godhead:
    1. Creation (Genesis 1:2; Job 26:13)
    2. Revelation (John 14:16-17, 26; 15:26-27; 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:10-13; 12:3-6)
    3. Sanctification (2 Thessalonians 2:13; 1 Peter 1:2; Hebrews 10:29)
    4. Resurrection (1 Peter 3:18-20; Romans 8:11; Hebrews 9:14)
    5. The Mission of Jesus (Matthew 1:18; 3:16-17; Acts 2:1-4; 10:38)
  C. Sometimes it refers to that which the Holy Spirit experiences as a person (Acts 5:3^4; 7:1;
Ephesians 4:30; Hebrews 10:29; Matthew 12:31).

Consider "In the Spirit," "By the Spirit," "Of the Spirit" & "Through the Spirit"—
  A. Sometimes these phrases indicate the Spirit's miraculous activity.
    1. Disciples were led "by the Spirit" (Luke 2:27; 1 Corinthians 12:3, 8-9).
    2. Jesus was "led up of the Spirit" and "cast out devils by the Spirit" (Matthew 4:1; 12:28).
    3. Jesus was "in the power of the Spirit" when He worked miracles in Galilee (Luke 4:1,14).
    4. N.T. Prophets spoke "through the Spirit" giving special revelation (Acts 11:28; 21:4).
    5. The early church acted and spoke "with the Spirit" (1 Corinthians 14:15-16).
    6. However, none of these passages indicate a bodily indwelling of the Holy Spirit as a person in Jesus, an Apostle or a disciple because of regeneration.
  B. Sometimes these phrases indicate non-miraculous activity of the Holy Spirit through means.
    1. Christians are "led by the Spirit of God" (Romans 8:13-14); however, the Spirit leads by means of His teaching (Romans 8:1-2).
    2. We are washed, sanctified and justified "by the Spirit of our God" (1 Corinthians 6:9-11); yet, that washing occurs "with the washing of water through the word" (Ephesians 5:25) and sanctification is effected by "obeying the truth through the Spirit" (1 Peter 1:22).
    3. We are circumcised in heart "in the Spirit" and not "in the letter" meaning according to the Gospel and not by the Law of Moses (Romans 2:27; cf. 7:6; 2 Corinthians 3:6; Philippians 3:3).
    4. A thing is "by the Spirit" when it is according to the Holy Spirit's will (1 Corinthians 12:3-13).

Observations:
  A. Every time the word "spirit" occurs, it does not mean the Holy Spirit.
  B. When the word "spirit" does indicate the Holy Spirit:
    1. It may signify the Holy Spirit acting in His unique role within the Godhead.
    2. It may signify the Holy Spirit acting miraculously in revelation, inspiration & confirmation.
    3. It may indicate the Holy Spirit acting non-miraculously through means.
  C. Never does it indicate a bodily indwelling of the Holy Spirit as a person in either Jesus, an
Apostle, or a disciple because of regeneration.

Holy Spirit (Introduction)

GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT

A. Introduction

1. How is Spirit used in God's Word? (At the bottom of this study) 
2. God's presence throughout time.

3. A look at the involvement of the Holy Spirit throughout time and now.

B. Who is the Holy Spirit?

1. A power? A force? A "It"?

2. Scripture reveals the Holy Spirit to be a person in the same sense as God the Father and God the Son are persons. All three make up the Godhead the Tri-Unity-God.

3. The Holy Spirit acts like a person.

(a.) John 14:26, 1 Corinthians 2:13 - He teaches.

(b.) John 15:26 - He testifies

(c.) John 16:13 - He guides into all truth, hears and speaks.

(d.) Romans 8:26 - He intercedes for us in prayer.

4. The Holy Spirit has the attributes of a person.

(a.) 1 Corinthians 2:10-11 - Intelligence - He knows things of God. 

(b.) Emotions

1. He can be grieved - Ephesians 4:30

2. He loves Christians - Romans 15:30

(c.) 1 Corinthians 12:11 - He has a will or makes determinations

5. The Holy Spirit can be treated as a person since He can be:

(a.) Lied to-Acts 5:3

(b.) Tested-Acts 5:9

(c.) Resisted-Acts 7:51

(d.) Grieved - Ephesians 4:30

(e.) Insulted - Hebrews 10:29

(f.) Blasphemed against - Matthew 12:31

C. Who is the Holy Spirit - The Holy Spirit is God.

1. Attributes of the Holy Spirit that show Him to be God.

(a.) Hebrews 9:14 - He is the Eternal Spirit-God is eternal.

(b.) 1 Corinthians 2:10-12, He is all knowing – Omniscient - God is Omniscient.

(c.) Genesis 1:2, Job 26:13 (ASV), Job 33:4, Romans 8:11 He is all powerful –Omnipotent - God is Omnipotent.

(d.) Psalm 139:7ff, 1 Corinthians 6:19 - He is everywhere at once – Omnipresent - God is Omnipresent.

(e.) Other Attributes - Life, Truth, Love

2. Matthew 28:19 The Holy Spirit is included in the "Name" into which believers are baptized along with the Father and the Son.

3. Acts 5:3, 4 - Peter declared that when the Holy Spirit is lied to, that God is lied to, affirming the Holy Spirit is God.

D. God the Spirit in the Old Testament.

1. The Holy Spirit, Spirit or Spirit of God (Lord) is mentioned 88 times in the OLD Testament in 20 of the 39 books.

2. The Holy Spirit is seen in the creation.

(a.) Creation of the World Genesis 1:1, 2, Psalms 104:30, Job 26:13 (ASV)

(b.) Creation of Man Genesis 1:26, Job 33:4

3. The Holy Spirit is seen working in both the Patriarchal and Mosaic Ages of the Old Testament.

(a.) Joseph - Genesis 41:16:38

(b.) Bezaleel - Exodus 31:3

(c.) Moses and the Seventy elders - Numbers 11:17, 25

(d.) Balaam - Numbers 24:2

(e.) Judges – The Spirit of the Lord came on many of the Judges.

4. By the Holy Spirit, the prophets spoke the inspired Word.

(a.) 2 Peter 1:20-21

(b.) 1 Samuel 10:10-Saul

(c.) Psalm 51:11-David

(d.) Isaiah 59:21 -Isaiah

(e.) Ezekiel 11:5- Ezekiel

5. The Holy Spirit was also withdrawn from men in the Old Testament.

(a.) Samson - Judges 13:25; 16:20

(b.) Saul -1 Samuel 10:10, 16:14

6. In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit revealed much of His work to come in the Christian Age.

(a.) Prophecies concerning the Messiah

(b.) Joel 2:28-29, Acts 2:14-21

E. The Holy Spirit in the New Testament.

1. There are 248 references to the Holy Spirit in the New Testament.

(a.) Matthew-12

(b.) Mark-6

(c.) Luke-17

(d.) John-24

(e.) Acts-57

(f.) Letters-132 - All except Philemon, 2nd & 3rd John, 21 times in Romans alone

(g.) All eight writers of the New Testament write of Him.

2. The Holy Spirit at work with Jesus.

(a.) Matthew 1:18, 20; Luke 1:35- Jesus was conceived through the Holy Spirit.

(b.) Luke 4:18, Acts 10:38 - Jesus was anointed with the Spirit

(c.) John 15:26 - Jesus was bore witness of by the Spirit.

(d.) Luke 4:14- Jesus had the power of the Spirit.

3. The Holy Spirit at work with the Apostles. (Not included in this study.)

F. The Holy Spirit at work in our Salvation.

1. What is the Holy Spirit's role in pre-conversion?

(a.) John 14:16, John 14:26, John 15:26 - Sent by the Father at the request of the Son.

(b.) John 16:7-11 - His Assignment

1. Convict the world of guilt in regard to sin.

2. Convict the world in regard to righteousness.

3. Convict the world in regard to judgment.

(c.) What does the Holy Spirit use to accomplish His role?

1. The Word of God

2. John 14:26 - Apostles told "He will teach you what to say"

3. In all of the conversions in Act, the use of the Word was made by the Holy Spirit working through men.

4. Ephesians 6:17 - The word is the sword (weapon) of the Spirit

5. Romans 1:16- The gospel (word) is God's power for salvation of everyone who believes.

2. What is the Holy Spirit's role at conversion?

(a.) He affects renewal - Renewal by the Holy Spirit. John 3:5; Titus 3:4-7 

(b.) He indwells us - Acts 2:38, Acts 5:32, 1 Corinthians 6:19, Romans 8:11 

(c.) He becomes our "seal" and "deposit" guaranteeing our inheritance. Ephesians 1:13-14, Ephesians 4:30

3. What is the Holy Spirit role after our Conversion?

(a.) 1 Corinthians 6:19 - Continues to indwell (live in us).

(b.) Romans 8:9-11 - Leads us into a deeper, spiritual life, holy before God.

(c.) 2 Thessalonians 2:13 - Sanctifies us (set aside for a Holy purpose).

(d.) Romans 8:26-27 – Intercedes for us before God.

(e.) Romans 8:14-16 - Proves our sonship.

(f.) Ephesians 3:14-19 - Empowers us for a faithful and full life.

(g.) John 14:26, Galatians 4:6, Acts 9:31 - comforts us in hope through the Word and in the promises God has given us.

(h.) John 4:24, Philippians 3:3 - Directs us to worship through the Word.

(i.) Galatians 5:22-23 - Develops within us the Fruit of the Spirit to be pleasing to God.

(j.) Romans 8:11, Galatians 6:8 – Will raise us up on the Last Day.