Plan for: Thanksgiving | Advent | Christmas
To explore the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, the Gospel, and our Faith in our Christian journey.
Good morning, church family! Today, we delve into the profound wisdom found in the book of Ephesians. As we explore Ephesians 1:13-14, we'll uncover the power of three significant forces in our Christian walk: The Holy Spirit, The Gospel, and Our Faith. These elements aren't just part of a checklist but are the very essence of our spiritual journey.
Before we delve into God's word, allow me to share a quote from the well-respected Christian author, A.W. Tozer. He once said, "What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us." This statement rings true today as we consider the transformative power found in the Holy Spirit, the Gospel, and our Faith.
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, co-equal with the Father and the Son, yet with a distinct role in the life of a believer. The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force or energy, but a person with intellect, emotions, and will. He is God's presence in our lives today, guiding us, empowering us, and equipping us to live a life that glorifies God.
The power of the Holy Spirit is transformative and life-changing. It is the Holy Spirit who convicts us of our sin, leads us to repentance, and enables us to confess Jesus as Lord. Without the Holy Spirit, we would remain in our sin, blind to the truth of the Gospel and unable to enter into a relationship with God. The Holy Spirit is the one who brings about the new birth, regenerating our hearts and making us new creations in Christ.
The Holy Spirit also empowers us for service. In the book of Acts, we see the disciples, once fearful and timid, transformed into bold witnesses for Christ after being filled with the Holy Spirit. The same power that enabled Peter to preach at Pentecost, that enabled Stephen to stand firm in the face of martyrdom, and that enabled Paul to plant churches across the Roman Empire, is available to us today. The Holy Spirit equips us with spiritual gifts for the building up of the body of Christ, and empowers us to live a life of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
The Holy Spirit also guides us into all truth. He illuminates the Scriptures, helping us to understand and apply God's Word. He leads us in our decision-making, helping us to discern God's will. He reminds us of God's promises, helping us to trust in God's faithfulness. He comforts us in our suffering, assuring us of God's love and presence.
The Holy Spirit also sanctifies us, making us more like Christ. He convicts us of sin, leads us to repentance, and enables us to overcome temptation. He produces in us the fruit of the Spirit, transforming our character to reflect the character of Christ. He seals us for the day of redemption, guaranteeing our inheritance in Christ.
The power of the Holy Spirit is not something we can earn or achieve, but a gift that we receive. It is not something we can manipulate or control, but a person with whom we can have a relationship. It is not something we can use for our own purposes, but a power that is to be used for God's glory.
The power of the Holy Spirit is not a luxury for the super-spiritual, but a necessity for every believer. It is not an optional extra, but an essential part of the Christian life.
The Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, is a powerful force in the life of a believer ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO