Anthony Norris Groves from Plymouth
John Grippest Bellett Dublin.
The year 1827. Read Acts 3:41-47
Edward Cronim originally an R. C.
Became a true believer, and took the Lord’s Supper with various Noncomformists or Independents.
On settling in Dublin he was informed that he must become a definite member of one of them or he would not be allowed to break bread with any of them.
Cronin referred to comply and was publicly denounced fro one of their pulpits.
Cronim met one of the Bible Society’s workers. Then began meeting with him to remember the Lord in one of his rooms.
Others were added and they moved to Cronim’s home.
As their members increased they moved to another large home.
Unknown to this group another two believers had been meeting together in another part of the city. They too had been disturbed by some of the unscriptural practices in the established churches.
So they decided to “break bread” in one of their homes. Some time later one of these men was walking in the country and he saw a man apparently in deep meditation sitting under a tree.
Describe the conversation.
The result of this God ordered meeting was that these two groups were brought together in Christian love and unity.
Some houses became too small
A large auction room belonging to one of the brethren was taken, and the meetings’ were held there for some time.
Joy and blessing resulted from this union.
Anthony Norris Groves left for Plymouth-England.
To his surprise he found others in the city like minded. As the news spread throughout the British Isles, many other companies were soon gathering in the same way for the same reasons.
This movement of the Spirit caught fire and the British Isles. Northern Ireland was saturated. In later years it was discovered that simultaneously in many parts of the world the same things were happening.
Today these are some 300,000 in fellowships in U.S.A. and Canada. “Plymouth Brethren”
Missionary effort … no wages – salary.
India was opened up by Groves – died at 58.
George Mueller of the Bristol homes.
J. N. Darby – Archbishop of Canterbury. New Translation.
Robert Chapman. God is at the door.
Basic differences
1. No ministers – Elders – Priesthood of believers · Spiritual gifts.
2. Conversion through faith in Christ
3. Believer baptism
4. The innerancy of the Scriptures
5. Breaking Bread each week
6. Rapture of the Church … Resurrection of believer
7. The coming of the head to the earth
8. Resurrection of unbelievers
9. The Great White Throne
10. Eternal punishment
Pastors to feed the flock
Sentinels to protect the flock
Pillars to support the flock
Rulers to guide the flock
Examples to encourage the flock
Longfellow wrote:
Oh, bring us back one more
The vanquished days of yore;
When the world with faith was frilled,
Bring back the fervid zest,
The hearts of fire and steel,
The hands that believe and build.
Grieve Not the Holy Spirit
There are various ways in which we can grieve the Spirit and consequently hinder His work.
1. By resisting Him – Acts 7:51
2. By grieving Him – Eph 4:30
3. By quenching Him – 1 Thess 5:19
Resisting Him – Acts 7:51
God by His Spirit had been striving mightily with the men of Israel, seeking to lead them to repentance and the acceptance of Christ.
They utterly refused to hear.
Once more through Stephen, He addresses them in Acts 7, but the only result produced was that “they were cut to the heart and they gnashed on him with their teeth.”
This being so the charge was hurled against them “Ye do always resist the Holy Ghost.”
As it is with the nation of Israel then, so it is with individuals now.
People do still resist the Holy Spirit when under conviction.
No one knows how long He will strive with a person who resists.
Grieving the Holy Spirit. Eph. 4:30
The scriptures testify that the Spirit of God is holy and that He is a Person.
At conversion He indwells the believer, His Presence making the body the temple of God – Holy.
What know ye that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.
Being when God the Spirit, the presence of any sin in the life grieves Him, so when the apostle makes his appeal not to grieve Him, he virtually is saying do not allow anything in the life contrary to the holiness of the Spirit.
Sin grieves Him – anything that grieves Him is sin.
Any of the aforementioned sins if allowed in ones life would grieve Him beyond measure.
But generally speaking believers in communion do not commit these sins, so we must look for further causes of grief.
Euodious and Syntyche -- Be of the same mind, Phil 4
Sad Christian … be over anxious for nothing.
A defeated Christian – Rom 8 – Failing to use His gifts grieves Him Idle words – gossip –the flesh A person’s outward conduct may be exemplary yet within there can lurk elements which cause grief to the Holy Spirit.
An unyielded Christian is a grief to the Spirit. Refusing to follow His leading … resisting His will. The Spirit’s ministry being denied, no longer being able to direct – is a grief to Him.
Let us for instance consider the scriptures as an album of pictures.
The pictures are all about the same glorious Person. He shall glorify me.
The Holy Spirit is intent upon describing His beauty, His love, His glory. If we do not listen nor examine the pictures, because we are taken up with the things of the world, He will close the album, He will stop ministering Christ to our hearts and will withhold His joy and blessing.
Paul said, “Do not grieve him.”
If we do not grieve Him what is the Remedy?
We must confess our sins – 1 John 1:9
We should ask God to show us the seriousness of our sin.
The confession of sin is a heart searching ministry which is often neglected.
The result of this neglect is coldness – indifference – disinterest – lack of spiritual joy.
We must confess (1 John 1:9) … Note where this verse (If we confess our sins, etc.) is found, in the centre of a passage dealing with fellowship with God.
Confession of sin brings into effect the advocacy of the Lord, and also removes the cause of grief to the Holy Spirit.
Quote v. 31-32, This gives Him pleasure. 1 Thess 5:19 – quench not.
He Is Omnipresent
In the previous chapter we have discussed the “personality of the Spirit.”
In this present chapter we will seek to show that He is divine.
Can we prove the deity of the Holy Spirit?
Is He indeed God?
Describe the scene on the banks of Jordan.
Matt 3:16-17 The revelation of the Trinity.
He is revealed as part of the Godhead.
See Acts 5:3-4
Peters said first of all that Annanias had lied to the Holy Spirit. v.3
In v. 4 he said, “You have not lied to man, but to God.”
His attributes ascribe Him proof of Deity.
Heb 9:16 through the eternal Spirit.
He is possessed of eternity, therefore He is uncreated. Eternity is an attribute of God alone.
He is omnipotent. Psalm 139:7-14
Whither shall I flee from your Spirit? or whither shall I flee form your presence? If I ascend up into heaven you are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold you are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost part of the sea; even there shall your hand lead me, and your mighty hand shall hold me.
In the N.T. a similar thought is implied.
John 14:16, 17 “And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter that He may abide with you for ever.” He is with believers over all the word simultaneously.
He is also omniscient, that is to say that his knowledge embraces infinity.
“The Spirit searches all things – the whole reach of existence.
“Yea, the deep things of God” Only Deity can fathom. Deity
If the Spirit knows all that God knows then He is possessed of omniscience. Man is baffled at the judgment of God, they are unsearchable, but to the Spirit they are open and plain.
He is able to guide into all truth – because He knows all truth.
The future is known to Him, for the Lord said, “He shall declare unto you the things that are to come.”
1 Corinth 2:10, 11
The Spirit has knowledge shared by no other, same the Father Himself.
“For what man knows the things of a man; save the spirit of the man which is in him. Even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.”
His works prove Him to be God.
Matt 12:28 The Lord said, “I cast out devils by the Spirit of God.”
Who but God can impart eternal life?
This is peculiarly the work of the Holy Spirit. See John 3:5 and Titus 3:5
Notice also His coordinate work with the Father and the Son.
He is associated with them in perfect equality at Christ’s baptism – at Pentecost – in the apostolic communion and in the baptismal formula.
In Heb 9:16 – The Trinity is seen to be working in perfect unison for the accomplishment of man’s redemption. “How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the Eternal Spirit affords Himself without spot to God.”
Picture Names of the Holy Spirit in Ephesians
Gifts are divided into three categories
1. Foundation gifts
2. Ministry gifts
3. Sign gifts
1. Foundation gifts
Apostles – Prophets
2. Ministry gifts
Word of wisdom – Word of knowledge – Faith
Helpers – Exhortation – Giving & ruling
Showing mercy – discerning of spirits
Men given to the church by the ascended Savior
Evangelists – Pastors – Teachers
3. Sign gifts
Healings – Miracles – Tongues – Interpretations of tongues
It is not the amount we have of the Spirit, but the amount He has of me.
Maravian Motto
“For Service or Sacrifice”
The Altar of Consecration
“Daddy has got all me.”
“One yielded life and God”
The fullness of the Spirit combines “Ardour” with “Order”
Let not sin reign in your mortal bodies
Sin shall not have dominion over you.
As you leave the whole burden of your sin and rest upon the finished work of Christ, so leave the whole burden of your life and service, and rest of on the present inworking of the Holy Spirit.
Picture Names of the Holy Spirit in Ephesians
1. The Soul And Earnest – Eph 1:13
Sealed with the Holy Spirit of Promise
The first name revealed in Eph “The Seal”
He Himself is the Seal.
2. The Earnest – of our inheritance
The guarantee
3. The Guide and Builder – Eph 2:1-7
The Spirit guided them to Christ and quickened them
Access by one Spirit – Ch. 2:18
For as many as are led by the Spirit, they are the Sons of God – Rom 8:14
4. The Builder – Builded together by the Spirit – Ch 2:21-22
5. The Revealer – Ch. 3:8-5
6. The Strengthened – Ch 3:16-19
7. The Uniter – Ch. 4:3
The unity of the Spirit
Grieve not the Holy Spirit – Ch 4:30
Quench not the Holy Spirit – 1 Thess 5:19
Water poured on a fire so that it cannot blaze for God
8. The Lover
9. The Gardener
The fruit of the Spirit – Ch. 5:9-11
10. The Filler – Ch. 5:18
11. The Warrior – Ch 6:17
12. The Intercessor – Ch. 6:18
Those who had been filled with the Spirit in Ch. 2 had to be refilled in Ch. 4
One baptism many fillings.
Eph 5:18 Be ye filled with the Spirit
How can we be filled with the Spirit?
1. By obeying God’s Word
2. By maintaining fellowship with our exalted Lord.
Our Lord indicated a three fold personal relationship of the Sprint to the believers.
1. With
2. In
3. Upon
With—John 14:17—He dwelleth with you. When He convicts of sin. John 16:4
In—John 16:17—He shall be in you.
a. The abiding presence of the Spirit in the believer b. To produce a Christ like character, the fruit of the Spirit. Col 5:16, 17 c. To help our infirmities. Roman 8:26 d. To inspire prayer. Eph 6:18 e. To give access to the Father. Eph 2:18 f. To assure us of our Sonship. Col 4:6 g. To comfort us. Acts 9:32 h. To guide us into all truth, revealing Christ to us. John 16:13, 14
Upon—Acts 1:8 Ye shall receive the power of the Holy Spirit coming upon you.
Describe Pentecost.
Acts 2:3, 4 The Day of Pentecost being fully come.
As they were all with one account in one place.
The Spirit descended upon them in cloven tongues, like as of fine.
And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit.
Note 1 –
They were with one accord in one place “Unity”.
They were “all” filled = Corporate Power
Cloven tongues, sat on each of them = Individual Power the result of unity in the Church.
This is possible today
The Means:
Do not allow any sin in the heart or life that would grieve the Holy Spirit.
So not quench Him by disobedience
Submit to His sway, without reserve, in walk and service.
Allow nothing of self, flesh or the world to handle His power.
When your lives are emptied of all that is foreign to Him, then the Spirit will come in fullness upon us.
The results of the filling of the Holy Spirit.
1. Progressive Sanctification
2. Teaching
3. Guidance
4. Assurance
5. Worship
6. Prayer
7. Service
Determined by the normal functioning of each.
It is not our responsibility to create a Christian unity.
The Vicar of Christ has already done this. He had baptized all between into that wondrous ORGANISM, the Church, we must recognize it.
See Eph 4:2-3 – With all lowliness and meekness with long suffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit.
The dynamic power of any assembly is circumscribed, within the area of an ungrieved Spirit, and the exercise of Spiritual Gifts.
Zech 4:6 Not by power, not by might, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord.
In The Believer
The tragedy by an unrecognized, indwelling omnipotent Holy Spirit.
Illustrate – Gentleman who traveled with the Belgium king.
Our Lords last words before the ascension intimated an authority of power.
Luke 26:49; Acts 1:8
This took place at Pentecost Act 2
The men were enveloped and energized by a new power.
They who had fled like timid sheep, now stood with lion like courage.
The fear of man had gone, they proclaimed boldly the messiahship and Lordship, of Christ to His recent murderers.
Floggings, imprisonment, scorn, hate and finally martyrdom, they endured boldly. “Witnesses”
In the Spirit’s power they broadcast the message with such zeal and fervent that Christian Assemblies sprang up throughout the Roman Empire. So strong did they become that the great persecutions were designed to exterminate Christianity.
By faith and by the Spirit’s power they multiplied and grow.
These men were not Superman neither were they immune from the discouragement and despondency that afflict us today.
Sometimes, they failed.
Illustrations & Quotes
The Motto of the Moravians. For “Service or Sacrifice” The altar of Consecration “One yielded life and God”. Mary Slessor, David Livingstone “I conquer only where I yield.”
“Make me a captive Lord.”
“And then I shall be free”, etc.
A Spirit-filled believer will exalt Christ and Christ alone. John 3:30 “He must increase, I must decrease.”
When God touched Jacob – he was never the same again. The result of spending a whole night with God.
The Laodicean age. v. 16 Luke warmness; v. 17 Insensibility
Cast out by Christendom of large.
He now appeals to the true believers.
v.20 Behold I stand at the door and knock, etc.
Jacob – The result of a night alone with God.
Isaiah – In the year that King Uzziah died
All – The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit – John 3:7
Some – The Infilling of the Holy Spirit – John 4:14
Few – The Overflowing – John 7:38-39
The fullness of the Spirit combines “Ardour” and “Order”
Lesson 4 Challenge – Will a man rob God?
Bring all the tithes. Prove me
Sealed by the Spirit – Earnest – Eph 1:13
Grieve not by the Spirit – Eph 4:30
Quench not by the Spirit – 1 Thess 5:13
The Consecration of the Believer – Romans 12:1
“The Spirit’s Work and Power in and for the Believer”
Personal Evangelism
Discussion – Slides – Address
The Power of the Holy Spirit
Grieving, Hindering, and Quenching
Abraham Kuyper, the great Dutch theologian of the last century wrote in the beginning of his classic work, “The Work of the Holy Spirit.” The need of divine guidance is never more deeply felt than when one undertakes to give instruction in the work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the great comforter, helper, and enabler for all spiritual power and service. In fact, service for God can only be profitable and powerful as it is undertaken in the name of Christ and in the power of an ungrieved Spirit.
The Power of the Spirit
There are two amazing and outstanding facts of this present time which make Christianity what it is in its ideal form. First, there is a man who sits at the right hand of God in heaven, and secondly, we have the Holy Spirit, who is God the Spirit, as a resident upon this planet living with us. The Holy Spirit has not become incarnate, like Christ, but dwells in the bodies of believers. (1 Corinthians 6:17-20) In Old Testament times, the occasions of His coming were to endow with power some chosen instrument for a special work. For example, in Judges 6:34, we find the Spirit endowing Gideon with special powers in order to enable him to defeat the Midianites with a mere three hundred men. (See Judges 6:34 and 7) Additionally, we see this with Samson, who has incredible physical strength through the Holy Spirit’s power, protecting Israel from the Philistines. (See Judges 15:14 and Judges 13-16) We see the Spirit also active in the lives of one of the greatest kings of Israel, David, who is called “a man after God’s own heart.” (See 1 Samuel 16:13)
For us as believers, this means that we have the promise of the Holy Spirit active in our lives. Jesus teaches, “He who believes in me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” (John 7:38) Jesus also promises this power at Pentecost, when he says, “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) In Luke 24:49, Jesus assures us, “Behold, I send the Promise of my Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” This means that the Holy Spirit is to be the power of the early disciples and the early church, rather than performing the miracles that followed. These miracles prove quite useful for displaying power in those days of the early church. However, their power does not lie in their eloquence, personal magnetism, mass psychology, or musical abilities. Some of these things have their uses today of course, and God uses them for his glory. However, we must acknowledge and live in a way that relies on His Spirit as our only constant, divine power. In Zechariah 4:6, the Lord says, “Not by might nor by power but by my Spirit.” Perhaps one of the errors into which all of us have fallen is that we try to use the Holy Spirit to bring about the results we desire to see in the Lord’s work, rather than giving Him ourselves – our body, soul, and spirit—to use as He sees fit for the glory and honor of the Lord. Romans 12:1 is God’s ideal for the Christian, where Paul tells us, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” This should actually be considered normal Christian living as our total commitment to God, the Holy Spirit. When we have given ourselves completely and absolutely to Him, we have not done anything spectacular, so far as God is concerned, rather this is what is expected of us!
Hindrances to the Power of the Holy Spirit
Let us consider, secondly, how there might be hindrances to the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
One of the greatest hindrances to power is the course of “self determination” rather than “self abandonment” to the will of God. In the poem, The Master’s Hand, by Myra Welch, the poet describes an old man taking up an old, seemingly worthless violin up for auction and playing a haunting melody. The crowd is astonished when the auction is raised from three dollars to three thousand dollars in exchange for the violin. Suddenly it has become very valuable. Why? The poet describes it thus: “The people cheered, but some of them cried, ‘We do not quite understand - what changed its worth? The man replied, “The touch of the Master’s hand.” The Master’s hand indeed gives our life a matchless, priceless worth since we have been made in His image. We should abandon ourselves to the molding of ourselves through His son, that we might look more like Him. Jesus gives us the perfect example of this when he prays to the Lord in the garden of Gethsemane, saying, “Not my will, but yours, be done.” (Luke 22:49) D.L. Moody, the well-known evangelist once said, “The world has yet to see what God can do with a Spirit-filled man.” Jim Elliot, the missionary to Ecuador who was martyred by the tribal people he had come to serve, said, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” Jim gave his life and gained eternal life through his total commitment. This is total commitment is essential for God’s best and highest. Will we as Christians settle for less? Let us let go of every egotistical, mercenary, worldly, materialistic desire and let God, by His Spirit, fill us, control us, and use us as He sees fit.
Grieving the Holy Spirit
Next, let us look at what “grieving” the Holy Spirit looks like. (See Ephesians 4:30) This is very practical as we think about what in our lives might grieve the Holy Spirit. Lying or over exaggeration will grieve him, as well as anger, stealing, corrupt communication, bitterness, spite, vindictiveness, abusive language, and giving place to the devil. These are all qualities and actions that will grieve the Holy Spirit if put to use by Christians. There is also the danger of indifference, spiritual slumber, worry, over-anxiety, fear, or unbelief that causes the Spirit grief. Let us think about what the antithesis of these qualities are. Being kind to one another, tender-heartedness, and forgiveness are all ways to keep ourselves from displaying the things that might grieve the Holy Spirit. Let us remember the exhortation from Paul in Ephesians 4:30 to “not grieve the Holy Spirit” in these ways!
Quenching the Holy Spirit
In 1 Thessalonians 5:19, Paul warns, “Do not quench the Spirit.” This phrase, according to H.H. Thayer, means we should not “suppress or stifle” the Holy Spirit. While from God’s standpoint we cannot extinguish the Holy Spirit in an absolute sense because His person is indestructible, humanly speaking, it is possible to quench Him in the sense of resisting or opposing His will. Would any of us here today say that we have ever said “no” to the Spirit? Our unyieldingness, unbending, inflexible, stubborn, or obstinate wills can all be identified as sources of “quenching the Spirit.” These are ways we each individually quench the Spirit. But there is a more corporate aspect to quenching the Spirit as well. One of the great works of the Spirit in the world is to form and reside in the Church, the Body and Bride of Christ. It is always His desire to see the whole church in one accord in one place; it proves to be this way in the early church of the first century. (See Acts 2:1) The church on Earth today is not God’s ideal, because the Spirit’s power has been quenched. As Christians, we cannot hold ourselves guiltless in this matter.
In the matter of the exercise of spiritual gifts, if we believe that God has given gifts to all his children and we do not allow room nor time for the exercising of these, this also qualifies as quenching the Spirit. Moreover, if in our abhorrence of “one man” ministry we have swung to the other extreme of “any man” ministry, we are also guilty of quenching the Spirit. Because Christian brothers and sisters are occupying a position without a gift and perhaps without a message, while others with the gift and the message are denied the opportunity, this should be considered quenching the Spirit.
Let us conclude on a very practical note by pointing out a few suggestions in service that might help us avoid this error of quenching the Spirit. First, elderly brethren are at times monopolizing precious time and being scathing in their remarks. We should choose our words very wisely and consider being kind and tender-hearted towards one another. Secondly, younger brothers need to examine their enthusiasm and look hard and long at the motivating principle of their service. Is it your own spirit or the Holy Spirit that is motivating you? Thirdly, watch carefully in what our prayers consist of. Much of worship often consists of hackneyed and meaningless phrases rather than heartfelt and genuine prayer. Lastly, let us watch over the development of loose morals, unconfessed sins, and illicit relationships, for nothing will sap the power of any church more quickly than pews filled with sinning believers. We should heed these warnings to behavior, for if these conditions prevail, the Spirit’s power is hindered, and thus He also grieved and quenched. Let us remember and proclaim the power available to us in the Spirit by avoiding these hindrances, grieving and quenching of the Spirit!
The Filling of the Spirit
General Booth wrote at the beginning of the 19th century. The chief dangers that confron the coming century would be:
1. Christianity without Christ
2. Forgiveness without repentance
3. Salvation without regeneration
4. Politics without God
5. Heaven without hell
6. Religion without the Holy Spirit – Service without the Spirit – Ephesus/Sardis/Laodicea The Lord’s last recorded words, “And ye shall receive power after the Holy Spirit is come upon you”, etc. Acts The Church in the last days is to “have a form of godliness but denying the power thereof.” 2 Tim 3:5
While this is true of the church at large, it is also true of many Assembly fellowships.
Many believers do not recognize the presence and Person of the Holy Spirit:
1. In the individual – 1 Corinth 6
2. In the assembly – 1 Corinth 3
Inadequate teaching – the infiltration of the world – low spiritual and moral living has robbed the Spirit of His place and power in our lives as individuals and in some assemblies.
We are all filled with the Holy Spirit at conversion. (Give the initial signs of this) John 3:34.
This is God’s ideal for the Church, and for every one in the Church.
The reason why we lose this power – joy – ecstasy – and enthusiasm is because of sin. (Illustration with the glass of water) Example: Demas John 3:5 The indwelling of the Spirit “Except a man be born of the Spirit, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
John 4:14 The upspringing of the Spirit
“But the water which I shall give him shall become a well of living water springing up into everlasting life.”
John 7:38 The outflowing of the Spirit
“He that believeth on Me, as the scriptures hath said, out of his life shall flow rivers of living water.”
This is God’s ideal for His people.
Why is the work of the Spirit and the power of the Spirit not manifest in us as individuals and in our Assemblies as it should be?
1. The Spirit is grieved – bitterness – passion – rage – animosity – quarreling – slander –malice. Eph 4:31
2. The Spirit is quenched – subdued – suppressed. 1 Thess 5:19
3. There is sin in the individual or in the camp – Miriam – Aachan Not only is there sin in the camp, but to compound the evil, elders, in many instances are unqualified to challenge and judge the sin. In these circumstances the presence and power of the Holy Spirit is absent. Because He is grieved – quenched.
In his second prayer for his beloved Ephesians, Paul prays that “they might be filled with all the fullness of God. Eph 3:19
In chapter 5 His tone changes, as he commands, “be filled with the Spirit.”
How can we be filled with the Spirit?
Two schools of thought:
1. The Spirit comes in, self goes out. (Wrong)
2. We must be emptied of self before we can be filled. (Holy)
Complete surrender to Him.
God used those who were completely surrendered to Him.
It was the Holy Spirit who produced Christ in Mary. Luke 1:35
Describe the purity of mind and body of Mary.
She was the godliest woman on the face of the earth.
God prepared and used this pure channel, by the Holy Spirit, to bring Christ to (?) in human form.
Elizabeth, John’s mother, was filled with the Holy Spirit. Luke 1:41
Zacharias, John’s father was filled with the Holy Spirit. Luke 1:67
John the Baptist was filled with Spirit from his mother’s womb. Luke 1:15
Jesus Christ was Spirit-filled at His baptism. Luke 3:22
Luke 4:1 – Full of the Spirit – led by the Spirit into the wilderness.
Luke 4:14 – return in the power of the Spirit.
Isaiah 61 shows that Christ was enabled by the Spirit in all His ministry.
Saul of Tarsus
Acts 9:17—Read this: “Be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
(Quote other men who had this experience) D. L. Moody – Hudson Taylor Their great spiritual power came as the result of a subsequent experience.
In order for our service to be effective for God we must live our lives under the control of the Spirit.
(Describe) As a drunk man is controlled by his liquor so a believer ought to be controlled by the Spirit.
To experience this scriptural and God-requested condition there must be consecration – dedication and complete surrender.
(Quote Romans 12:1) We must give ourselves to God the Spirit.
The motto of the Moravian missionaries, “For service or sacrifice.”
Illustrate with story. “I’ve got all daddy” – “daddy’s got all me.”
A Spirit-filled man is a Christ-like man.
Story, “Jesus is at the door.” Mr. Grant.
He is a man who exhibits the fruit of the Spirit, love – joy – peace – longsuffering – gentleness – goodness – faith – meekness – self control.
A Spirit-filled person is one who is set apart to God – “Jacob” – “Israel”
Opposition cannot deter him – he is inconsistent – Early disciples Success cannot spoil him – It is Christ who lives in him. The Spirit filled believer is one who is clothed with the Holy Spirit, just as Gideon was.
“The Spirit clothed Himself with Gideon.”
“The Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon.”
The manifestations of a Spirit-filled life.
1. Progressive sanctification
2. A deepening prayer life
3. A more intelligent worship
4. A more fruitful service. (Cleansing-Abiding-Obedience) John 15 Fruit … more fruit …much fruit.
Note now the five characteristics which marked the Spirit-filled disciples:
1. great boldness
2. great joy
3. great fear or reverence
4. great grace
5. great power
Paul sums up the results of this filling in the context of the verse.
Speaking – Addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.
Fellowship
Singing with all your heart unto the Lord.
Love – devotion; praise to God
Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Appreciation
Submitting “yourselves one to another in the fear of God.” – consideration for each other.
It will be seen in our marital life – domestic life.
It will be seen in our business life – masters-servants.
It will be seen in our Christian warfare.
Four words are used to describe His work toward us.
Baptized – Sealed – Anointed – Filled
These words describe what He has done and what He will yet do in the life of the believers.
Baptized is the historical word – an act
Sealed is the legal word which speaks of purchase – security – delivering.
Anointed is the operational word which describes equipment for service.
It also indicates that God has bestowed gifts upon those whom He wants to use in service in a special way.
Filled is the experiential word that enables us to understand in our minds and experience in our lives the thrill of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Being baptized by the Spirit underlines my relationship to the body of Christ.
Being sealed emphasizes my security for time and eternity
Being anointed describes my equipment for service.
Being filled helps me in my life and service.
Every believer is baptized and sealed whether carnal or spiritual.
Anointed and filled are conditional words that depend on a certain response from the believers to the call and claims of Jesus Christ.
Filled with the Spirit
To be “filled with the Spirit” is a further step than being indwelt or sealed by the Spirit.
The persons who are sealed are exhorted to be filled, Eph. 4:18.
It is the prerogative of every believer to choose whether he will seek earnestly and prayerfully to know the blessedness of being filled with the Spirit.
No vessel can be filled with the Spirit unless it is emptied of another.
I believe that God does not fill us from the outside, but from the inside.
To be filled with the Spirit, is to be controlled in every phase of our life by the Spirit (be not drunk with wine).
In the Church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers.
Prophets men of insight and foresight.
Teachers are men who understand the truth and have been given the power of ability to impart it to others.
The ideal assembly has prophets and teachers.
“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing bringing his sheaves with him.”
The Holy Spirit and Pentecost
The Holy Spirit is God’s Administrator of divine things.
We must deal with Him or we lack communication with heaven.
We either yield to His promptings or sink in the mire of self-will.
We receive of His strength, as we remain impotent.
We must recognize and obey Him or we will remain spiritually blind, unenlightened in mind and soul, with hearts incapable of deep spiritual response.
We owe more to the Holy Spirit than we can appreciate.
He is not only the Administrator of God’s economy, He is also the Author of divine Revelation.
The Bible is His production, but He employed human instrumentality. 2 Peter 1:21.
He makes it life to the seeking soul. 1 Peter 1:23.
He incorporated a power within its message to help believers stand against the militating forces of evil.
The Holy Spirit is the Lord of the Harvest.
He controls the workers on the field.
He empowers – directs – and prospers.
Our lack of knowledge of Him accounts for spiritual declension and darkness, weakness and lethargy.
The Holy Spirit has power to regenerate, providing a new nature.
He has power to sanctify, producing a new character.
He has power to energize, promoting a new fruitfulness.
He has power to illuminate, presenting a new vision.
Much of the ineptness, defeat, complacency and sorrow among believers is due to our lack of knowledge and communion with the Holy Spirit.
Pentecost – See Acts 2
Note the brevity of the reports of some of the greatest miracles.
The physical creation – a short paragraph
The incarnation – now the birth of Jesus was in this wise
The descent of the Spirit – A few verses in Acts 2
Sound – suddenness – supernatural signs.
The age of the Spirit had opened.
Bethlehem witnessed the humbling of Jesus Christ.
Jerusalem witnessed the humiliation of Jesus Christ.
The manger was inglorious – the cross ignominious.
The advent of the Spirit was all-glorious.
It swept men along in its irresistible force.
Human faculties were energized in a miraculous manner.
The wood of the manger may have mocked the Son of God made flesh – but the timbers of the house trembled when the Spirit was revealed.
The coming of the Spirit was more dynamic than climatic.
“You shall receive power after the Holy Spirit is come upon you.”
They would have power – enlightenment – guidance – triumph – because of the Spirit in them.
“They were with one accord in one place.”
Those who were gathered in the upper room were of one mind and one heart = one accord.
This implies more than freedom from disputation.
They were in harmony with each other, they were also in accord with the commission they had received from the Lord.
“You shall be witnesses for Me”
They were ready to witness when they were endowed with the power of the Spirit.
This is where most of the Church fails today – we care not of one accord relative to witnessing.
We may agree on the major points of doctrine but we do not adhere to the great commission.
Our Lord wants witnesses – witnesses need power – this comes from the Holy Spirit.
We are apt to sit snugly around the Lord ’s Table and forget that the same Lord who said “This do” also said “Go ye.”
“In one place”
There is only one place for the true servant of God – the place of His appointment.
It would stagger the imagination to think of the outcome if every believer were to occupy the place of the Lord’s assignment.
The impact on a dying world would be startling.
Satan’s forces would be put to flight.
The present position is this. Believers generally speaking are powerless – careless – listless – complacent.
Oh that we might avail ourselves of the power of the Holy Spirit.
Oh that we all could be of “one accord” and in “one place”.
The Holy Spirit’s work
“He shall glorify Me.” John 16:14
The Holy Spirit and the Son of God were not strangers to each other.
They were eternally one in the God head.
Note the prominence of the Spirit’s power in the ministry of the Lord Jesus.
The birth of the Savior – Matt 1:18
“ … she was found of child by the Holy Spirit.”
How an ocean of deity could flow into an eddy of humanity and still be God, is according to Paul, “without controversy a great mystery.”
At the birth of Christ
The Branch was put in a manger – Isa 11:1
The Living Word on dead tree – John 1:1
A man in the glory – 1 Tim 2:5
A lamb on the throne – Rev 7:17
It put wounds in the King eternal – Zech 13:6
All this is attributed to the work of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus was directed by the Spirit.
“Then was Jesus led by the Spirit into the wilderness.” Matt 4:1
When the Spirit led the Savior into the wilderness it was not for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not He could stand the test, but rather to prove that He could not fail the test.
The first Adam was tested in the garden for obedience.
The last Adam was tested in the wilderness for righteousness.
To be led by someone denotes a surrender of one’s will.
This was true of our Lord. See John 6:38
“I came … not to do my own will, but the will of Him that sent Me.”
In surrendering His will the Holy Spirit led Him.
The Spirit led Jesus 40 days and nights in the wilderness.
The result – decisive victory – the devil leaves Him. Matt 4:1
When the Spirit is leading in anyone’s life – there is victory and Satan cannot have control – he must leave.
2 Corinth 2:16 ‘Thanks be unto God, who always causes us to triumph in Christ.”
1. Jesus was identified by the Spirit – Matt 3:16
2. Jesus was anointed of the Spirit – Luke 4:18 a. the Spirit of the Lord is upon Me b. He has anointed Me c. He has sent Me
3. Jesus was empowered of the Spirit – Luke 4:14
4. Jesus was glorified by the Spirit – John 16:14
The Spirit indwells the believer
1 Corinth 6:19 “What? Know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you?”
Second only to the matchless miracle of the incarnation of Christ is the descent of the Spirit to dwell in the body of the believers.
Through the incarnation of Christ, God provides the unspeakable gift of eternal life.
Through the indwelling Spirit God provides superabundant power and infinite supplies of sustaining grace.
To reject the Savior ends in catastrophic hopelessness.
To disregard the Spirit results in colossal failure.
What is the practical importance of the Spirit indwelling the believer:
1. He guides into all truth
2. He makes intercession for us
3. He witnesses with our spirit that we are the children of God
4. He exalts Christ through the believer
5. He establishes a fellowship with Himself
The Holy Spirit as the Controller of Servants
The great landowner, Boaz, the kinsman-redeemer who so strikingly typifies Christ, had a man who represented him on the harvest field.
“His servant that was set over the reapers.” Ruth 2:5
This servant controlled the young men who did the work. He was in charge of the operations on the field. He is a type of the Holy Spirit at work.
This servant was intimately acquainted with Ruth’s past history, with her desires and exercises. At the appropriate moment he introduced her to Boaz.
The Holy Spirit knows all the desires and exercises that we have in our souls. He is the one who produced them. He is also the One who introduces us to Christ and then brings us into intimate fellowship with Him.
The Holy Spirit represents Christ in all the activities of the harvest field. He is set over all the servants, directing – energizing and empowering them in their labors.
In essence God’s servants should be under the direct control and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
In Acts 8:29 it was He who bade Philip go and join the chariot of the Ethiopian official.
It was He who caught him away from this service to the land of the Philistines.
In Acts 13:4 it was the Holy Spirit who sent Barnabas and Saul to the island of Cyprus.
He also forbade Paul to preach in the province of Asia.
He would not permit them to go to the great province of Bithynia.
Whether sending or forbidding, the Holy Spirit was in absolute control.
No human agency or organization intervened, or presumed to receive and pass on His commands to the messengers of Christ.
The elders of Ephesus were such because the Holy Spirit had made them overseers.
As the servants of God we have to look to Him for guidance.
He does indeed guide.
We are able to recognize this guidance and obey it by the Holy Spirit, Christ’s true Representative on earth.
Marks of an Assembly controlled by the Holy Spirit
1. We would never need to complain of dull-heavy or unprofitable meetings.
2. We should not need to fear the unhallowed intrusion of the Flesh.
3. There would be no making of mechanical prayer – not talking for talking sake.
4. No hymnbook seized to break a dead silence.
5. Each one would know his place in the Lord’s immediate presence.
6. Each gifted vessel would be filled-fitted and used by the Master’s hand.
7. Each eye would be directed toward the Lord Jesus.
8. Each heart would be occupied with the Lord.
9. If a chapter were read, it would be the very voice of God.
10. If a word were spoken it would fall with power upon every heart.
11. If prayer or worship was offered it would lead every soul into the presence of God.
12. If a hymn was sung, it would lift the spirit up to God, and be like sweeping the strings of the heavenly harp.
13. We would feel ourselves in the very sanctuary of God and enjoy a foretaste of the glories of heaven.
The Holy Spirit should guide in all assembly activities. Acts 13
“Separate onto Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
He raises elders in the church. Acts 20:25
“Over which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.”
A scriptural and spiritual assembly should seek His guidance in all of its work.
Godly elders under the Spirit’s direction should discern the human instruments to be used in ministering the Word or preaching the Gospel.
Praying in the Spirit means a believer earnestly entreating God as Father – in the name of the Lord Jesus – in the power of an ungrieved Spirit.
The Holy Spirit dwells in individuals. 1 Cor 6 – In local churches 1 Cor 3
A church controlled by the Holy Spirit would be a holy church. Acts 5
It would also be a prosperous church. Acts 11 – Antioch
They preached the Lord Jesus – the hand of the Lord was with them – a great number believed – they gave themselves to the Lord – they gave liberally of their substance.
Our inheritance will be realized in full when the Lord comes.
The Church’s complete blessing awaits His coming.
Every individual believer’s blessing awaits His coming.
The redemption of our bodies awaits His coming.
The full redemption of all Gentiles await the coming of our blessed Savior.
The Holy Spirit is mentioned 12 times in Ephesians.
Four words are used to describe His work towards us.
Baptized – Sealed – Anointed – Filled
These words describe the work He has done and will yet do in the life of the believer.
Baptized – this is the historical word. It describes the work of the Spirit for us.
Sealed – this is the legal word, describing purchase – sealed – security – delivery Anointed – this is the operational word. It indicates that God has bestowed gifts upon those whom He wants to sue in special ways.
Filled – The experiential word, it is the word that enables us to understand in our minds and experiences in our life the wonder of the prayer in Ch. 3 “That ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.”
Baptized – underlining my relationship to the body
Sealed – my security for time and eternity
Anointed – my equipping for service
Filled – for life and service
Every believer is baptized and sealed whether carnal or spiritual Anointed and filled are conditional words that depend on a certain response from the believer to the call and claims of Jesus Christ.
The fifth blessing is found in v. 9. The Lordship and Headship of Christ.
Having made known unto us the mystery of His will.
This is the dominant theme in the epistle. The glorious truth concerning Christ and His Church. There is nothing mysterious about this, but it has a sacred secret, previously unknown to O.T. saints, but now revealed to believers in the Word.
Ch 2-3 adds light to the present aspect of the mystery.
In v. 10 Paul gives a more detailed explanation of God’s secret plan.
He is thinking here of the future aspect of the mystery.
The dispensation of the fullness of times is the Millennium when Christ will reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. The last glorious age.
Christ will head up all things in heaven and on earth.
He will be the object of universal worship. Heavenly and earthly.
The sixth blessing according to v. 11 is that we have obtained an inheritance An inheritance eternal in the heavens. Heirs of God – Joint heirs with Christ. Revelation 21:1-5.
The seventh blessing is that we have been “sealed with the Holy Spirit”. v. 13
The apostle traces have the steps by which sinners are brought into union with Christ.
They heard the Gospel – John 10 – Romans 8
They believed in Christ – “Sealed unto the day of redemption” – Ch. 4:30
They were sealed with the Holy Spirit.
This is the order for conversion today. Explain this.
v. 14 says that the Holy Spirit is the earnest = down payment – pledging that the full amount will be paid.
The Holy Spirit as the seal guarantees that we will be kept safely for our inheritance.” Until the redemption of the purchased possession.
Ownership – Finished transaction – Security
Illustrations of redemption
The first-born in Egypt – the little boy who redeemed his boat. The mother hen who redeemed her chickens.
Sir Grimbold returning from the Crusades was captured – held to ransom.
To pay the ransom and redeem her husband, his beautiful wife gave her lily white right hand.
The Lord paid the price. Gal 3 “Being made a curse for us.”
Note the three aspects of redemption
1. To purchase – Christ bought us with His own blood.
2. To buy out of the market – never to be put on sale again.
3. To loose or free one. Free from the law – judgment of God – guilt of sin.
Note the three aspects of forgiveness of sin
1. Eternal forgiveness – this is God’s forgiveness
2. Restorative forgiveness – this affects our communion with the Father
3. Governmental forgiveness –
All these blessings are ours because of “the riches of His grace.”
The Holy Spirit
The Fact and Function of the Holy Spirit
John 14 v.16-18 v. 26
John 15 v.26-27
John 16 v.12-15
The Personality of the Holy Spirit
Romans 8 v.16 and 26
Note the “He’s” in v. 12-15; 9 times mentioned
The Work of the Holy Spirit
1. To the unbeliever – John 16:7-11
2. To the believer – Romans 8:1; See also John 16:12-15
He frees us – No condemnation, v. 33-34; No accusation, No separation He dwells in us – Corporately 1 Cor 3 Individually 1 Cor 6
He quickens us – At conversion – in our daily life – At his coming – 1 Cor 15
He leads us – Psalm 23
He witnesses to us – relationship Sons of God – Abba –Father
He helps us – In our prayers – extremities
He makes intercession for us – To Christ in Heaven who then intercedes to God in all the value of His atoning work.
We are convicted by the Holy Spirit. We are anointed by Spirit.
We are born again by the Holy Spirit. We are filled by the Spirit.
We are indwelt by the Holy Spirit
We are baptized by the Holy Spirit
We are sealed by the Holy Spirit
We have the earnest of the Holy Spirit
“The works of the Lord are pure words, like silver tested in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.
The Holy Spirit’s work for the believers. John 16:13-15
He will guide you into all truth.
He shall not speak of Himself.
What He hears from God that shall He speak
He will show you things to come.
He shall glorify me.
He will take what is mine and show it unto you.
John 10:10 I am come that you might life, etc.
The abundant life – the overflowing life.
Stephen full of faith and the Holy Spirit – Barnabas – Paul.
Finney – Edwards – Moody
Abundant love
Mark Stephens love for souls – Peter’s testimony – Paul was consumed with a love for dying men. David Brainerd – Judson – Livingstone. Paton exiled himself among cannibals – laid his young wife in her grave suffered with unmurmuring fortitude and reaped in unspeakable joy.
Abundant peace – The fruit of the Spirit is peace. Gal 5:22
The peace of God shall keep your hearts and minds. Phil 4:7
My peace I leave with you. John 14:27
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee”
Abundant power – Ye shall receive power after the Holy Spirit comes upon you.
The disciple’s lives were full of power – Stephen full of faith and power did great wonders. Chas Finney walked into a factory and the workers fell on their knees.
Abundant joy – “The joy of the Lord is our strength.”
The Holy Spirit in Acts 4:23-32
Power of the Spirit
Hindrances to power
Grieving the Spirit
Quenching the Spirit
Abraham Kuyper, the great Dutch theologian of the last century, wrote in the beginning of his classic work, “The Work of the Holy Spirit”. “The need of Divine guidance is never more deeply felt than when one undertakes to give instruction in the work of the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit is the great enabler (Comforter-Helper-Power) for all spiritual service.
Service for God an only be profitable, powerful as it is undertaken in the name of Christ and in the power of an ungrieved Spirit.
The two great outstanding facts of this present time which make Christianity, in its ideal form, what it is, are
1. There is a Man who sits at the right hand of God in heaven.
2. That the Holy Spirit, who is God the Spirit is a Resident upon this planet.
The Holy Spirit has not become incarnate … like Christ
He dwells in the bodies of believers. 1 Cor 6
In O. T. times the occasions of His coming were, to endure with power some chosen instrument. For a special work. Samson, David, Gideon. Judges 6:34. The Spirit of the Lord clothed Himself with Gideon. Human flesh suddenly becomes invincible.
Rivers of living waters shall flow from him – “D. L. Moody” “C. T. Studd” – John 7:38
The promise. Acts 1:8
“Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you.”
Tarry ye … until ye be endued with power from on high
The Holy Spirit was to be the power.
Not the miracles (wonders & signs) that followed – they were useful in those early days.
Eloquence – personal magnetism – mass psychology – music was not to be the power.
Some of these have their uses, and God has used them for his glory.
But it is not by might nor by power but by my Spirit saith the Lord. – Zach 4:6
Perhaps on one of the errors into which all of us have fallen, is that we try to use the Holy Spirit to bring about the results that we desire to see in the Lords work. Rather than giving him ourselves … body, soul, spirit … to use as He sees fit for the glory and honor of the Lord.
Romans 12:1 is God’s ideal for the Christian. It is really normal. Christian living. I believe that this is a total commitment to God the Holy Spirit.
When we have given ourselves completely and absolutely to him we have not done anything spectacular, so far as God is concerned it is what is expected of us. Acts 2:4 – filled 3,000 added; Acts 4:31 – Filled, spoke the word.
This brings us to our second point.
Hindrances to power.
One of the greatest hindrances to power is the course of “self-determination” rather than “self-abandonment” to the will of God.
In the poem “The Masters Hand” the poet describes the old man taking the old violin and laying a haunting melody. The crowd was astonished. The seemingly worthless old violin suddenly became very valuable. Why?
The poet describes it thus:
“The people cheered, but some exclaimed,
We do not quite understand.
What changed its worth; and the answer came,
‘Twas the touch of the Master’s hand.”
“Not my will but thine be done.”
Moody said:
“The world has yet to see what God can do with a Spirit filled man.” – John Wesley Jim Elliot said: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” Jim gave his life – gained eternal life.
This is total commitment, this is essential for God’s best and highest. Will we settle for less!!!
Let us let go … every egotistical, mercenary, worldly, materialistic desire.
Let us let God, by His Spirit fill us, control us, use us, as He sees fit.
Let me illustrate:
The Whirl – Liverpool
The Missionary Camp in Scotland
Anne’s conversion.
“It was the touch of the Master’s hand.”
Grieving the Holy Spirit. Eph 4:30
Now for something very practical. Grieve not the Holy Spirit.
Keeping this in its context. “What is grieving to the Holy Spirit?” “Put off the old man.”
1. Lying – over exaggeration.
2. Anger – temper
3. Giving place to the devil
4. Stealing
5. Corrupt communication – suggestive talk
6. Bitterness – spite – vindictiveness
7. Abusive language – Indifference – spiritual – slumber – worry – over anxiety – fear – unbelief The antithesis of this is:
1. Be kind one to another
2. Be tender hearted
3. Be forgiving
These will cause the Spirit to rejoice.
“Grieve not the Holy Spirit.”
Quenching the Spirit. 1 Thess 5:19. Quench not the Spirit.
This phrase means according to J. H. Thayer, do not “suppress or stifle” the Holy Spirit.
While from God’s stand point we cannot extinguish the Holy Spirit in the absolute sense.
His person is indestructible.
1. the glass of water – But humanly speaking it is possible to quench Him.
2. in the sense of resisting or opposing His will.
Would any of us here today say that we have never said “No” to the Spirit?
Our unyieldedness, plus our unbending, inflexible, stubborn, obstinate wills are all sources of “Quenching the Spirit.”
So far we have considered quenching the Spirit from the individual standpoint.
But there is more, there is the corporate aspect.
One of the great works of the Spirit in the world is to form and reside in the Church, the Body and Bride of Christ.
It was ever his desire that the whole Church should be with one accord in one place. It was so in the first century. The Church on earth today is not God’s ideal and because of this the Spirit’s power has been quenched.
We in the Assemblies cannot hold ourselves guiltless in this matter.
Next we come to the matter of the exercise of spiritual gifts.
If we believe that God has given gifts to all his children and we in our Assembly activities do not allow room nor time for the exercising of these, we are quenching the Spirit.
Moreover, if in our abhorrence of one man ministry we have swung to the other extreme of any man ministry, we are guilty of quenching the Spirit.
Because brethren are occupying a position without the gift and probably without a message while others with the gift and the message are denied the opportunity.
This is quenching the Spirit.
Let us conclude on a very practical note by pointing to a few obvious errors among us.
1. Elderly brethren monopolizing precious time. Being scathing in their remarks.
2. I would ask the younger brethren in their enthusiasm to look hard and long at the motivating principle of their service … their own spirit or The Holy Spirit.
3. Watch carefully our prayers and so-called worship for much of this consists of hackneyed and meaningless phrases.
4. Loose morals – unconfessed sins – illicit relationships. Nothing will sap the power of any church more quickly than pews filled with sinning believers.
5. If those conditions prevail the Spirit’s power is hindered, He also is grieved and quenched.
The Holy Spirit's Place in the Church
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
1 Cor 12-13
The Filling of the Holy Spirit
The Power or Fulness of the Holy Spirit
Acts 4:31 The Assembly filled
Acts 6:5 Stephen full of faith and the Holy Spirit.
v. 8 Full of faith and power did great wonders and miracles
120 gathered. Pentecost. Witness by the Spirit 1-8
The assembly at Jerusalem. Act 2:41-47
The formeeting of the Presidency of the Spirit.
One accord in one place.
The conduct of the assembly v. 42
Worship in the church
The fear of the assembly v. 43 Godly reverence
The fellowship of the assembly v. 44
Ch. 4:31
Prayer in the assembly (filled)
The Spirit in the assembly
First of all
Supplication – prayers – intercessions giving of thanks be made for all men.
The purity of prayer 1 line 1-2
Led-Liberty-Victory-Fruits
The witness of the assembly spoke the word with boldness.
The building was shaken
I’m all human history there never has been any thing like this.
Cp. When the temple was filled with the glory of God 1 King 9:11
Isaiah 6:4 The posts of the door moved at the voice of him who cried.
The unity of the Church. v.32 Prerequisit his power in the Church. See Ch. 2
“One heart and one soul” “All things in common”
Purity in the Church. ch 5:1-11
Lying to the Holy Spirit.
Power of the Church 12-16
Miracles – signs – wonders were wrought lay the apostles
Multitudes were added to the Lord.
The courage and fortitude the Church, 17-42
Dissensions in the Church, Ch 6:1-2
Qualifications for leaders in the Church, v. 3 v. 8 see also v. 10. See also Ch 7:55. The conversion of Saul at Judea.
Stephen – Philip
Compare with the man God chose to build the Tabernacle.
Ex. 31:1-6 The result of the work being in the hands of qualified men. v. 7 Quote.
The Promised Comforter
There is a sweetness and preciousness about the word “Comforter.” It amply describes the ancient word used for the Holy Spirit, “Paraclete.” The word “comfort” is made up of two Latin words – com and fortis. Com often is translated as “to be in company with” and fortis means “to strengthen.” This means that the Comforter is one who strengthens us by companionship. Beloved, this is one of the great incentives of the Holy Spirit! He comes to our side to help us, as an advocate does. An “advocate” is one who comes to help us in our legal difficulties, so the Holy Spirit, or the Comforter and Advocate, has come to help us in every crisis and in every difficulty in our Christian life. In John 14:16, Jesus says, “And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever.” Here, we should observe that Jesus uses the masculine pronoun for “He” rather than a neutral pronoun for “it.” This is evidence that the Holy Person is an actual Person, rather than a mere wave of emotion passing over us. The person of the Holy Spirit actually “dwells with you” as Jesus says in John 14:17.
The Spirit is also present in the world in Old Testament times, before Jesus comes. Joseph, Bezalel, Gideon, Samson, and David all show signs of the Holy Spirit’s active working in their lives. (See Genesis 41:37, Exodus 35:31, Judges 6:34, Judges 14:5, and 1 Samuel 16:13) The Spirit is with these men in the Bible, and today He is in believers. He is indeed another Person of the Godhead, but unlike Jesus, does not become incarnate in one person. Rather, He works through the whole church and is everywhere at one time. Jesus describes His work, saying, “And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.” (John 16:8) We must believe that the Spirit has unfathomable power and energy in His working in believers today and the stories we have in the Bible. We know that He will convict us of our sin and convicts many about not believing in the Lord Jesus Christ. This sin is the great outstanding, damning sin which, if not repented of, will send men and women to a lost eternity forever. Jesus continues by explaining how the Spirit will convict the world of sin, righteousness and judgment. He says, “of sin, because they do not believe in me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father and you see me no more; of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.” (John 16:9-11) Jesus is saying that after He has completed His work of atonement by dying on the cross, God will raise Him from the dead on the third day and forty days later He will take Him up to His right hand. Sin puts Jesus on the cross, but righteousness puts Him on the throne there in heaven, seated with God the Father.
The Holy Spirit in John 14-16
In these passages, we read Jesus’ farewell discourse just before He is about to leave His disciples in His impending arrest, trial, and death. He knows that they will be filled with sorrow, so in His absence, He informs them of how they can express their love for Him. He says, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” This means that it is not through tears that they will show their love, rather but by keeping His instructions He has given them as recorded in the Gospels. The Lord then continues, saying, “And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever.” (John 14:16) This reveals that Jesus can and is willing to pray to the Father to send “another Helper,” or one who is called to the side of another to help. This is very similar to the “advocate” as mentioned in 1 John 2:1, who is Jesus. Therefore, we can understand the “Helper” in this passage to be the Holy Spirit in much the same way, for Jesus calls Him the “Spirit of truth.” (John 14:17a) The Spirit’s teaching is true and His sole purpose is to glorify Christ.
Jesus also says that the world does not know the Spirit: “the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him…” (John 14:17b) This means that even though He convicts men of sin they do not know that it is He. He continues, “but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you He dwells with you and shall be in you.” (John 14:17b) Before Pentecost, the Holy Spirit comes upon men and dwells “with” them. Since Pentecost, however, now when a person believes in Christ, the Holy Spirit comes into that person’s life forever. (See 1 Corinthians 12:13) We cannot pray David’s prayer, “Do not take your Holy Spirit from me.” (See Psalm 51:11) The Holy Spirit is never taken from a true believer, even though we may grieve Him, quench Him, or hinder His work in us or through us.
Next, the Lord continues by assuring His disciples, “I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” (John 14:18) The Lord is promising them that He will not leave His disciples alone, but will return. He does indeed come to them after His resurrection - in the person of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. He then predicts something interesting about His impending death and resurrection: “A little while longer and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you will live also.” (John 14:19) We know that this is also true, because no unbeliever sees the Lord after His burial; He was only seen by those who follow Him. He will also assuredly come to these disciples as well as to those who believe in Him at the end of the age of grace, when He will take everyone home to heaven. Continuing in John 14:20, Jesus mentions “at that day,” which most likely refers to Pentecost. When He refers to “you in me and I in you,” He is pointing out the vital link between the Father and the Son. In much this same way, there is also a vital link between the Lord and His saints. The statement that Christ is in us and we are in Christ is difficult to imagine or explain. But we can know and be assured that Christ is in the believer in the sense that His life is implanted in him, and that Christ actually dwells in us through the Holy Spirit!
While the Lord is with His disciples, before He has been arrested, condemned and put to death, He teaches His followers only up to a certain point. He does not reveal everything to them, because they are confused enough by what He has already told them. This is why He says in John 14:25, “These things I have spoken to you while being present with you.” Finally, we arrive at Jesus promise to us regarding the Holy Spirit. Jesus says, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” (John 14:26) He is communicating that when the Holy Spirit would come, He would reveal more to them. We should also note that Jesus points out the Spirit being sent by the Father. He comes in Christ’s name in the sense that He came to represent the Lord’s interest on earth. He does not come to glorify Himself, rather to draw men and women to the Savior. Here Jesus is promising that the Spirit will teach us many valuable things, through the words of the apostles and the written Word of God. Then, Jesus predicts that the Holy Spirit will help His followers remember much of the truths which He presents in germ form in the New Testament during His earthly ministry.
Now let us look at Jesus’ similar teaching in John 15 and 16. He says, “But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of me.” (John 15:26) He affirms again that the Spirit is indeed sent forth by the Father. This first happens at Pentecost, to testify of Christ. Note that the Spirit will testify of Christ later through the disciples who survive Christ and carry on His earthly ministry after He has ascended. They have been with Jesus and are therefore qualified to tell of the glories of His Person and the wonder of His work. In John 16 we see Jesus teaching that it is imperative He should go back to heaven in order that the Spirit will come to earth as His people’s Helper. The Spirit will empower, equip, teach, and make the Lord more real to them than ever He has been before. The Spirit also has active work among the unsaved as we see in John 16:8-9. Jesus says, “And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they do not believe in me.” This shows that the Spirit will convict people of the sin of rejecting Christ. In John 16:10, He explains what it means to convict of righteousness: “because I go to My Father and you see me no more.” The Lord is completely righteous and God approves of His perfect character by opening the heavens, raising Him from the dead, and taking Him back to heaven.
The Holy Spirit witnesses to the world of these things! We know, as with the passage from John 14, that there are still many truths that the Lord wants to tell His disciples but they are not able to receive them, or ready to understand them. But we are assured that when the Holy Spirit will come, He will continue to reveal God’s will and God’s plan. Jesus says, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” (John 16:13) The result of this guidance by the Spirit is the complete New Testament witness, which contains the full revelation of God, His plans past and future, and His purposes for the Church, which is Christ’s body. We should also observe Jesus words about the purity of the Spirit’s revelation, in that He will only speak of the things given to Him by the Father and the Son. The Spirit is responsible for informing Jesus’ followers about the “things to come.” The New Testament, and particularly Revelation, all point to this promising hopeful future of the Lord’s reign. In John 16:13-14, note the personal pronoun ‘He’ that the Lord uses nine times. This emphasizes that the principal work of the Spirit is to glorify Christ. In this way, we can test all preaching and teaching, for if it glorifies Christ, then it is of the Spirit. Finally, Jesus says, “All things that the Father has are mine. Therefore I said that He will take of mine and declare it to you.” (John 16:15) This means that the Spirit will take the great truths concerning Christ and reveal them to the seeking saint, and that all the attributes of the Father also belong to the Son. The Spirit unveils the glorious perfectness, ministries, offices, graces and fullness of the Lord Jesus. This is indeed a subject then can never be exhausted! Let us rejoice in the ministry of the Holy Spirit that testifies to the Lord’s glory in the world around us.
The Meaning of Pentecost
Pentecost is the complement of Calvary
Without Pentecost, Calvary would have been ineffective to redeem a last world.
The Jewish feast of Pentecost was dependent on the Passover. It was held fifty days after that event.
Had there been no Passover, there could have been no Pentecost.
It follows then that had there been no Calvary, then could have been no Day of Pentecost.
Calvary opened the fountain from which all the blessings of Pentecost flowed.
The feast of Pentecost heralded the beginning of harvest, the two wave loaves were waved before the Lord.
On the Day of Pentecost, the beginning of the Gospel harvest were garnered, when 3,000 souls were presented to the Head of the Church.
Augustine designated the Day of Pentecost as the … of the Holy Spirit.
This concept is in harmony with Scripture.
1. In the opening of human history the Father came down to earth for the purpose of man’s creation.
2. Several millenniums later there was another Visitor from glory – the Lord Jesus, God’s Son. He came to accomplish redemption.
3. On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came to earth to achieve man’s regeneration.
The Advent. Acts 2:1-6
The sound of a mighty wind.
Cloven tongue like as fire
Miraculous tongues
There was no doubt that He had come
There was no doubt that He had fallen upon the 120 praying disciples. By a mighty baptism He had formed them into one united body.
Were those believers excited – of course they were. They were so excited that the world thought that they were under the influence of new wine.
The meaning:
“And they were all amazed and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?”
The first meaning was that it was God’s seal on the Messiahship of Jesus. It was God’s vindication of Christ to the Jews and was a fatal blow to them.
Secondly, it was the formation of the Church into a living organism.
There were doubtless believers before Pentecost but it was not till then that they became an organic entity.
The Church was thus formed spontaneously and without human organization.
Thirdly, Pentecost meant the possession of a new power by the disciples, given them for the discharging of their new responsibilities.
The Spirit in the Assembly
The Temple – The Human Body – The Bride
The Holy Spirit is Christ’s Representative in the Church. The Church is indwelt by the Spirit. The Spirit controls the church.
This statement may seem in conflict with the doctrine of the Headship of Christ.
Both statements are true.
Christ is the Head of the Church, but He was delegated the Holy Spirit to be His Agent or Representative on earth.
This being so every local church must know experimentally this fact and then give Him His rightful place.
When the Lord ascended to heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to represent Him. John 14:16.
“And I will pray the Father and he shall give you another Comforter that He may abide with you forever – He shall be in you.
Describe Pentecost.
Pentecost was the birthday of the Church.
The Spirit, at Pentecost unified the individuals, and welded them into one corporate whole.
One Body – One Baptism.
Paul writing to the Ephesians exhorted them to keep the unity of the Spirit.
Born – Sanctified – Led – Access – Pray – Worship
Those who don’t are guilty of a grievous sin against the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit became the Leader and Contender. He made the Church His dwelling.
He wants to lead believers in their worship.
Phil 3:3 “We worship God in the Spirit and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.”
Gerazim – Samaritan
Jerusalem – Jews
Believers – In spirit and in truth
There can be no acceptable worship if any of these three things are absent. John was in the Spirit. Gideon was clothed.
Definition of worship
See Col 1 – Prayer – thanksgiving – worship
1. A soul occupied with its need
2. A soul occupied with its blessings
3. A soul occupied with Christ alone
So worship in its highest form is to speak to God about the excellencies of His Son.
Might I suggest priorities in the assembly?
1. Worship – seeketh such
2. Edification – Eph 4
3. Outreach – The great commission
When and Where do we worship?
Each day … then in Assembly gatherings.
The Father seeketh such to worship Him.
Thomas “My Lord and my God”
The Patriarch “He leaned on his staff and worshipped.
Abraham’s servant bowed his head and worshipped the Lord, Blessed be the Lord God.
Mary did not come to hear a sermon.
She did not come to meet fellow believers.
Mary did not come to be refreshed by Him
Mary came to give her precious gift to the Lord.
Her gift:
Was costly
Was reserved for the Lord
Was brought to the feet of the Lord
Was accompanied with contriteness of heart
The whole house was filled with its fragrance.
Gazing on the Lord in glory
While our hearts in worship bow
There we read the wondrous story
Of the cross, its shame and woe.
Gazing on it we adore Thee
Blessed, precious holy Lord
Thou, the Lamb, alone art worthy
This be heaven’s and earths accord.
Praying in the Spirit
Definition: A believer earnestly entreating God as Father, in the name of the Lord Jesus, in the power of an ungrieved Holy Spirit … unconfessed sin, Romans 8:26
He guides in all assembly activities. Acts 13
Separate – Saul – Barnabas – He sent them out.
He raises elders for the Church. Acts 20:28
Over which the Holy Spirit has made you overseer.
A scriptural assembly should seek His guidance in all things.
Godly elders under His direction should discern the human instruments to be used in ministering the Word or preaching the Gospel.
Eph to Titus – godly elders – shepherds – sound faith – doctrine – speech – good works.
Disbursement of funds
All discipline should be exercised under the Spirit’s direction.
Where does the Holy Spirit dwell today?
1. In individuals – 1 Cor 6
2. In local churches – 1 Cor 3 – local conditions
His work is not effective if His authority is not recognized.
We as individuals and as local churches must be absolutely surrendered to Him. To do as He pleases in us – for us – thru us.
What would an assembly be like if it were controlled by the Holy Spirit?
1. We would not complain about dull meetings
2. We would have no intrusion of the flesh. Great earnestness, simplicity, “Self-assertion; self confidence.
3. There would be no mechanical prayers.
4. Each gifted vessel would be fitted-filled and used to the glory of the Lord
5. He would be the center of our gathering.
6. Each heart would be occupied and filled with Jesus Christ.
7. Our hymns of praise would be a real Hallelujah Chorus.
8. We would feel the very Presence of God, and enjoy a foretaste of heaven.
A church controlled by the Spirit will be a holy Church.
Acts Ch 5 – Annanias and Sapphira
It will also be a prosperous church. Acts 11; Antioch
They preached the Lord Jesus.
The hand of the Lord was with them.
A great number believed.
They turned to the Lord = They gave themselves to the Lord.
They gave liberally of their substance.
Ch. 13
True greatness or Humility
A new Commitment
Ch 16
His second advent
His oneness with the Father
The coming of the Spirit
Ch 15
Unison of the Vine and Branches
The new relationship: No longer servants but friends
Ch 16
The work of the Holy Spirit – to the world – to believers
Ch 17
Christ’s high priestly or intercessory prayer
The Holy Spirit in Ephesians 5
“And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”
Here in Ephesians 5:18, we observe that Paul labels drunkenness as one of the works of the flesh. Paul identifies some of these works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21. He says, “Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” This shows that drunkenness excludes one from inheritance in the kingdom of heaven and leads to other forms of profligacy and “riot” as the true meaning of excess. For example, in the story of the prodigal son, we see that the son wastes his inheritance on “riotous living.” (Luke 15:11-32) Notice that the downward path he takes travels with increasing rapidity. From “wine” he becomes like one of the “swine.” Likewise, if we are in this same condition of the prodigal, our minds are dulled and our sense is rendered insensible. How can we then discern the will of God, “walk circumspectly” or “redeem the time” as Paul says? (Ephesians 5:15-16)
One characteristic that stands out in a drunk is that he is completely under the control of his drink. Conversely, Paul urges the believers at Ephesus and believers today to be filled or controlled by the Spirit and under His divine domination. The doctrine of the “filling of the Spirit” has been neglected or deleted in common theologies today. To appreciate the Spirit’s importance in one’s life it demands an experimental understanding of the truth in addition to theological knowledge. Many attempts have been made to explain this doctrine without a proper understanding of its context in baptism, which includes regeneration, or the sealing of the Spirit. Some have chosen to ignore the teaching of the scripture in favor of conclusions based on experience alone, but this is dangerous and can even be inspired by the evil one.
Paul’s words in Ephesians 5:18 strongly indicate that each Christian is commanded first not to be drunk with wine wherein is “dissipation,” or debauchery, but to “be filled with the Spirit.” From this fact there evolves the question, “How can I be filled with the Spirit?” This brings us to the main message of this lesson. Let us first look at the negative side of this indwelling of the Spirit. First, we cannot be filled by the Spirit if we live on a low spiritual plane, because our lives are cluttered by the luggage and rubbish of life. Secondly, it is impossible to be filled with the Spirit by simply willing it; rather certain conditions must be accepted. Thirdly, fleshly or carnal Christians cannot be filled with the Spirit, because they are already filled with the flesh.
The Conditions
Now let us think about the overwhelming great news about the filling of the Spirit. First, in order to be filled with the Holy Spirit, we must meet the scriptural conditions regarding this in every respect. Let us examine these scriptural conditions. First, we are prohibited from quenching the Spirit. (See 1 Thessalonians 6:19) Secondly, we are told not to grieve the Holy Spirit in Ephesians 4:30. Lastly, in Galatians 5:16, we are taught to walk by the Spirit and not fulfill the lusts of the flesh. Let us look at each of these more closely:
“Do Not Quench the Spirit,” 1 Thessalonians 6:19
The word quench means, “suppress” or “stifle.” In order to not suppress or stifle the Spirit, we must never resist or oppose His will. Every Christian at some time or another must face the obvious fact that “no man can serve two masters…you cannot serve God and mammon.” (See Matthew 6:24) Most Christians recognize this as a fact intellectually, but this truth must be apprehended in experience as well as doctrine. Consequently, Christians are exhorted, “do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.” (Romans 6:13) Notice here how Paul uses the verb “present” twice. This is the same word in English, but in the original language it is written in two different tenses. In the first instance, it is in the present continuous tense, essentially meaning, “Stop continuing to present your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin.” This is an appeal to everyday living from Paul. In contrast to this, the second instance of this word is in the aorist tense, essentially meaning that we should present ourselves to God once and for all. Therefore, a true Christian is called upon to make a definite yielding of his life to God in order to unleash the potential for useful service. In the same way, the Christian is yielded to God. If there has not been an initial act of surrender, or if there has not been this constant state of yieldedness, then we are guilty of the sin of “quenching the Holy Spirit.” We are refusing His leading and guidance and have proved ourselves to be defeated Christians, which means we are quenching Him. This is quite a challenge!
“Do Not Grieve the Holy Spirit,” Ephesians 4:30
Secondly, we are taught to not grieve the Spirit. Obviously this is closely linked with not quenching the spirit, because often in quenching Him we likewise grieve Him. Perhaps the greatest source of grief to the Spirit is sin, and perhaps more specifically, unconfessed sin. How do we know if we have grieved the Holy Spirit? The determining factors should be a noticeable loss of fellowship with God, as well as a loss of fellowship with believers. These things to a Christian are invaluable. We can also know by the marked absence of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. Or worse, if we have become engulfed in spiritual darkness, we know we are possibly grieving Him. Recognizing these conditions as a believer is bad enough, but sin left unconfessed unto God is tantamount to spiritual suicide. In fact, unconfessed sin is the curse upon Christianity today. Do you confess your sin to God believing that He will forgive your day-to-day sins? 1 John 1:9 teaches, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” There are other evidences of unconfessed sin that grieve the Holy Spirit: spiritual barrenness, ineffectual service, loss of Christian joy, and stunted Christian growth. We must be constantly watching so that we do not fall into these snares.
“Walk in the Spirit,” Galatians 5:16
The two previously mentioned requirements for a Spirit-filled life are somewhat negative in character. If we are to be filled with the Spirit, we cannot say “no” to Him, thus quenching Him, and we also cannot continue grieving Him. A believer who is walking in the Spirit, so close to the Lord that neither the Spirit’s power nor the Spirit Himself is quenched, is a mature believer ready for the “filling of the Spirit.” Furthermore, the command to “be filled with the Spirit” in Ephesians 5:18 is written in the present imperative tense, implying a continuous filling, rather than a one-time event. Although there is one baptism in our lives, there are many fillings of the Holy Spirit. For example, in the scripture we see many instances where the Holy Spirit fills believers continuously. In Acts 2:4 we see that the early church is filled on the day of Pentecost. In Acts 4:8, Peter is filled again, and in Acts 4:31, the entire company who meets to hear of Peter’s encounter with the Sanhedrin is again filled. Paul warns us in 2 Timothy 3:5 to be wary of men “having a form of godliness but denying its power.” This may not be a picture of an apostate, liberal, professing church, but rather a picture of the current fundamentalism that denies the power of the Holy Spirit. Many true Christians do not even know the Holy Spirit, His work for fellow believers, or His presence in them.
Another requirement of walking in or by the Spirit is the positive aspect of the truth; in many respects this is more important than the other two. A person who is walking by the Spirit is one who is controlled by the presence and power of the Spirit within. In Romans 8:14 Paul tells us, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” This means that one is being controlled by the Spirit in the same way an inebriated man is controlled by his wine.
Let us discuss the process and signs of being filled by the Spirit. First, we must make a complete surrender to Him. Then, we must accept God’s will for our lives. Finally, we must present our bodies as “living sacrifices” and yield ourselves completely to Him, presenting ourselves to God. (See Romans 12:1 and 6:13) Some of the signs of being filled by the Spirit should include being separate from profane things. This ultimately means being in the world but not of it. (See John 17:11 and 17:16) A Spirit-filled believer should be dedicated unto God’s will, purpose, and program. Furthermore, a believer who is “walking by the Spirit” is someone who is controlled by the Spirit, exhibits the fruit of the Spirit, is separated from the world, sanctified to God and set apart, fearless to speak the Word, undeterred from opposition, persevering through tribulation, and unspoiled by success. The central ideas of a Spirit-filled life, then, are first consecration, then separation, and finally, purification. We, as believers, are commanded to be filled with the Spirit, but do we actually desire to be so filled? If we do, we have already looked at the conditions of doing so. However, a progressive sanctification, being Spirit-taught, a mature, deepened prayer life, and a more intelligent worship and fruitful service signal the manifestation of the Spirit-filled life.
Let us look at the characteristics that mark the Spirit’s presence in the apostles. First, each has great boldness. Continually in Acts 4, Luke mentions the apostles’ in prayer and proclaiming the Gospel. (See Acts 4:13, 4:29 and 4:31) Secondly, the apostles exhibit great joy in their ministry, whether facing opposition, persecution, or church growth. (See Acts 8:8 and 13:52) Third, great fear characterizes the apostles’ being filled with the Holy Spirit. Although signs and wonders are being done, these acts also prove to bring about much wonder, amazement and fear upon seeing the power of the Holy Spirit in action. (See Acts 2:42, 5:5, and 5:11) Fourth, a great grace is bestowed on the apostles through the filling of the Spirit as well. In Acts 4:33, Luke tells us, “And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.” Lastly, it seems that great power is displayed through the apostles through the Spirit’s filling. (See Acts 4:33) The results of filling not only manifests itself in these apostles but should be brought forth by believers today as well. We should take our final admonition in regards to being filled with the Holy Spirit from Ephesians 5:19-21. Brothers and sisters in the faith, we should be “speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in our heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things,” and “submitting to one another in the fear of God.” (Ephesians 5:19-21) This, beloved, is what it means to “be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18)