As Christians, we often hear the terms "Spirit-filled" and "normal" Christian used interchangeably, but there's a significant difference between the two. A Spirit-filled Christian is one who has surrendered their life to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to guide, empower, and transform them. In this sermon, we'll explore the differences between a Spirit-filled Christian and a normal Christian, highlighting few signs and differences.
Why God Looks for Spirit-Filled Christians
God desires a people who will surrender to the Holy Spirit's control, allowing Him to work mightily in and through them. In Acts 1:8, Jesus says, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." God looks for Spirit-filled Christians because they are the ones who will effectively witness for Him, demonstrate His power, and bring glory to His name.
10 signs and differences that distinguish a Spirit-filled Christian from a normal Christian:
Empowered Witness: A Spirit-filled Christian is empowered to witness effectively for Christ, while a normal Christian may struggle to share their faith. (Acts 1:8)
Fruitful Life: A Spirit-filled Christian exhibits the fruit of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, and self-control, while a normal Christian may struggle with fleshly attitudes and behaviors. (Galatians 5:22-23)
Guided by the Spirit: A Spirit-filled Christian is guided by the Holy Spirit's leading, while a normal Christian may rely on their own understanding. (Romans 8:14)
Bold Prayer Life: A Spirit-filled Christian has a bold and effective prayer life, while a normal Christian may struggle with timid or infrequent prayer. (Ephesians 6:18)
Spiritual Gifts: A Spirit-filled Christian operates in spiritual gifts, such as prophecy, healing, and teaching, while a normal Christian may not understand or utilize these gifts. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11)
Victory over Sin: A Spirit-filled Christian experiences victory over sin and lives a life of obedience to God, while a normal Christian may struggle with ongoing sin. (Romans 8:13)
Faith-filled: A Spirit-filled Christian lives by faith, trusting God's promises and provision, while a normal Christian may rely on their own strength. (2 Corinthians 5:7)
Love and Compassion: A Spirit-filled Christian demonstrates love and compassion for others, while a normal Christian may be more self-focused. (Colossians 3:14)
Spirit-led Decision Making: A Spirit-filled Christian makes decisions based on the Spirit's leading, while a normal Christian may rely on their own understanding or circumstances. (Romans 8:14)
Glory to God: A Spirit-filled Christian lives a life that brings glory to God, while a normal Christian may live a life that brings glory to themselves. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
God desires Spirit-filled Christians who will surrender to the Holy Spirit's control, allowing Him to work mightily in and through them. By understanding the differences between a Spirit-filled Christian and a normal Christian, we can seek to live a life that is empowered, guided, and transformed by the Holy Spirit. As we yield to the Spirit's leading, we'll experience a life of power, purpose, and glory to God.
