THE SPIRIT OF GOD MAKES US HOLY
TEXT: 1PETER 1:2; 1 THESSALONIANS 4:7-8, 1 THESSALONIANS 5:23
INTRODUCTION: THE HOLY SPIRIT is a gift from GOD, you cannot earn it. In order to receive the gift, we must repent from our sins. The Holy Spirit helps in our Christian life by dwelling in the individual believers separate or different from the world.
To be holy means to be devoted to GOD means that the companion of GOD is separate from the world. Separation from the world is the result of holiness, not the source.
As we repent, confess our sins, and receive gift of salvation, the Holy Spirit regenerates our dead inner human spirit which now becomes sensitive to the spiritual things of GOD. John 3:1-16, Acts 2:38.
The Holy Spirit performs the work of baptizing the believer Acts 2:39. It is a gift of empowerment that helps the believer to live a holy life. Through his power, we become more like JESUS and are directed to do GOD’S will.
The gift primarily empowers us to witness to others - Acts 1:8
We are encouraged to ask the Holy Spirit to re-fill us on regular basis, when we feel, we need more strength Ephesians 5:18
GOD is holy and wants us to be holy Leviticus 11:44, 1 Thessalonians 4:3. The power of God through the Holy Spirit enables us to overcome our human nature and become like God.
However this miracle requires our willing cooperation with God. Colossians 1:27-29
The Holy Spirit helps us to become who God created us to be. Without Him, we are powerless. Phil 2:13
We grow if we have a vision to be more holy - 2 Timothy 1:16. The Holy Spirit must not be neglected; it should be stirred up regularly to operate as He wills. If we neglect Him, we quench or lose Him – Psalm 51:11
HOW CAN THE HOLY SPIRIT MAKE US HOLY?
Practice the spiritual disciplines that promote the presence of God like prayer, meditation, bible studying.
Practice acts of goodness, kindness, love and justice, say no to immorality
Have a strong fellowship with the Holy Spirit always.
We need to know that we cannot make ourselves holy; rather we grow in holiness or sanctification through the grace of the indwelling Spirit of God in us.
The uniqueness of the Holy Spirit is His presence within us, which He uses to empower us to live victoriously for Christ and the glory of the father.
