Sermons

The Reality of the Holy Spirit Today

 

          The truth is that the Holy Spirit is God himself. He is someone, not something. He is both a person and Lord. Jesus promised the presence of the Holy Spirit in power that occurred at Pentecost, which many call the birthday of the church. Acts is simply the story of an empowered church that carried out the great commission of Jesus in the first century. That mission is the continuing task of the church even to this very time. The former general secretary of BWA, Denton Lotz asks, "Are Baptists afraid of the Holy Spirit?" Some no doubt are, but there is no need to be. Actually, we should seek the daily "filling" of the Spirit for power and guidance in victorious living. "Slain in the Spirit", speaking in tongues, casting out demons, prophesying, and other "spirit" phrases make us afraid to truly embrace God's Spirit in our lives in a positive loving manner. In the world, the Holy Spirit restrains rebellion against God (2 Thessalonians 2 and 17), convicts of sin, righteousness, and judgment to come (John 16:8-11) and always points to Christ (John 16:12-14). And in the church the Spirit truly has a major part:

Regeneration (Titus 3:5; John 3:5)
Baptizes (1 Corinthians 12:13)
In dwelling (John 14:17, Romans 8:9, 1 Corinthians 3:16)
Seals (Ephesians 1:13, 4:30, 2 Corinthians 1:20-22)
Sanctifies (1 Corinthians 1:2)
Fills (Ephesians 5:18)
Bears Fruit (Galations 5:22-23)

 

          The Holy Spirit brings new life, truth, and community as we experience and practice God's love. The New Testament teaches there is "one body and one Spirit…one hope…one Lord…one faith…one baptism (Ephesians 4:4-6). So the Holy Spirit draws us together in unity, community and peace (Romans 8:6). It is fitting that we emphasize the work of God's Spirit in our personal lives and the life of our church today.

Charles Horton

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pdf  Steps to a Life-Changing Decision 12/01/2009 DownloadDirect Link to File