Filled With The Holy Spirit
Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:16-26
Introduction: There is little fruit where there is little filling. Let’s study these two texts.
I. The Equality Of The Spirit
Jesus claimed equality with God (Phil. 2:6). The Holy Spirit is just as equal. God is one in
three. See Deut. 6:4; I Cor. 8:6; John 17:3; Rom. 3:30; Gal. 3:20.
The spirit is God in His nearness. He is not a third God or one third of God but God
Himself. The divine God was incarnated in Jesus and now resides in His people in the person of the Spirit. He is not the special possession of “super saints”.
II. The Energy Of The Spirit
One may see His energy at creation (Gen. 1:2). He brought the cosmos out of chaos.
One may see His energy in proclamation and revelation (Acts 2:17-18, Joel 2:28-32; Zech.7:12; Acts 7:51). One may also see His energy in regeneration (Matt. 1:18-20; John 1:13, 3:5, 6, 8).
III. The Entrance Of The Spirit
When does the spirit enter a human heart? At the moment of conversion (Mk.1:8;
Matt. 3:11; Lk. 3:16; Acts 1:5). Also look at John 1:12. Other passages to explore are Lk. 1:15, 41, 67, 2:25, 27; Acts 2:4. At the moment of conversion one is baptized into Christ. The Holy Spirit takes up residence. There is one baptism but many fillings.
IV. Some Examples Of The Spirit-Filled
John the Baptist (Lk.3:4). Zacharias (Lk. 1:67). Stephen (Acts 6:5). Barnabas (Acts
11:24).
V. The Evidence Of The Spirit
The evidence is moral not miraculous. Look at Eph. 5:18-21. Four descriptive
consequences are listed. 1. Speaking; on speaking terms with others. That’s fellowship.
2. Singing to the Lord. That’s worship. 3. Thankful: Grumbling is a sure sign of unbelief.
4. Submission: That’s listed 32 times in the N.T.
Study Gal. 5:22. Each is known by their fruit! Study John 15:1-17. Only as we abide can we abound! Do a good study on these words.
Conclusion: It seems pretty clear to me that the evidence of being filled with the spirit has very little to do with signs, miracles and wonders and everything to do with character.
