Biblical Doctrine Center
The Holy Spirit
The person and work of the Holy Spirit in creation, in Christ's ministry, and in the life of the believer.
Overview
Historical and Literary Context
The Spirit's activity spans the whole Bible, from hovering over creation (Genesis 1:2) to empowering judges, prophets, and kings in the Old Testament, to being poured out on all believers at Pentecost (Acts 2), inaugurating the age of the church.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth... he shall glorify me.
John 16:13-14 (KJV)
Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
Romans 8:9 (KJV)
What Scripture Explicitly Says
Scripture explicitly identifies the Spirit as a person, not a force, who can be grieved (Ephesians 4:30) and lied to (Acts 5:3-4), who convicts of sin (John 16:8), regenerates (Titus 3:5), indwells believers (1 Corinthians 6:19), and produces spiritual fruit (Galatians 5:22-23).
Questions Christians Discuss
Christians hold differing views on the timing and nature of Spirit baptism relative to conversion, and on the continuation or cessation of certain sign gifts today. This app presents the Spirit's clear, agreed-upon ministries while acknowledging these areas of genuine, longstanding Christian discussion.
Gospel Connection
The Spirit applies Christ's finished work to individual believers, uniting them to Christ, sealing them for the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13-14), and testifying with their spirit that they are children of God (Romans 8:16).
Practical Application
Believers are called to walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), be filled with the Spirit continually (Ephesians 5:18), and not grieve or quench his work (Ephesians 4:30, 1 Thessalonians 5:19).
Cross References
Ezekiel 36:26-27 (KJV) - A new spirit within you. Acts 2:1-4 (KJV) - The outpouring at Pentecost. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (KJV) - The Spirit of the Lord and liberty, transforming believers into Christ's image.
Reflection Questions
- 1
How aware are you day to day of the Holy Spirit's presence and work within you?
- 2
What does it mean practically to 'walk by the Spirit' this week?
- 3
Where in your life have you seen the fruit of the Spirit growing, and where do you need it most?
Prayer
Holy Spirit, thank you for indwelling me, sealing me, and testifying that I am God's child.
Fill me afresh today. Produce your fruit in me, and help me to walk in step with you rather than grieving your work. In Jesus's name, Amen.
Continue Your Study
The Trinity -- studies how the Spirit relates to the Father and the Son as one God.
Sanctification -- examines the Spirit's ongoing work of making believers holy.