Pneumatology refers to a discipline within Christian theology that focuses on the study of the Holy Spirit.

The term Pneumatology is derived from the Greek word Pneuma (πνεῦμα), which designates “breath” or “spirit” and metaphorically describes a non-material being or influence. The English term pneumatology comes from two Greek words: πνεῦμα (pneuma, spirit) and λόγος (logos, teaching about). Pneumatology includes the study of the person of the Holy Spirit and the works of the Holy Spirit. Before we move on, let’s look at the word theology

Theology is the science concerning God. Etymologically, theology is the Ogos of God, the study of science which treats God, His nature and attributes, his relations with man and the universe. Let us defines it very simply and clearly as “the study which treats directly of God and his relationship to the world and to man’. The term theology can be used either to cover a dogmatic study of a part of scripture or the whole. In this article, we shall not cover the total content of what the scriptures teach and what man can know concerning God and His relation to all that He has made. But shall try to create a working material.

A good comprehensive definition of theology is hard to find since nearly every one offered is either too meagre or tends to stress one the source of a fully developed theology to the exclusion of others.

Encyclopedia of religion and Ethics (1924 ed.) defines theology as “the science which deals according to the scientific method, facts and phenomena of religion and culminates in a comprehensive synthesis or philosophy of religion which seeks to set forth in a systematic way all that can be known regarding the objective grounds of religious belief”.

A Presbyterian theologian, Charles Hodge defines theology as concerned with facts and principles of the Bible. Lewis Sperry Chafer offers the following definitions; systematic theology may be defined as the collecting, scientifically arranging, comparing, exhibiting and defending of all facts from any and every source concerning God and His works.

Theology comprehends many departments –

1. Exegetical Theology – Exegetical comes from a Greek word meaning to “draw out” the truth seeks to ascertain the true meaning of the scriptures, a knowledge of the original language in which the scriptures were written.

2. Historical Theology, traces the history of the development of doctrinal interpretation. It involves the study of church history.

3. Dogmatic Theology, is the study of fundamentals of the faith as set forth in church creeds.

4. Biblical theology, traces the progress of truth through the several books of the bible and describes the manner in which each writer presents the important doctrines. Biblical theology is that branch of exegetical theology which deals with the process of self-revelation as a divine activity, not as the finished product of the activity.

5. Systematic theology. In this branch of study, the biblical

teachings concerning God and man are arranged in topics, according to a definite system.

NAMES AND EMBLEMS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

What is in a name? We all know something about what is in a name without entering into an essay on the subject. Again Edison and Pasteur remind us of different accomplishments.

Names changed (by God when the course of a life was changed Jacob’s name was changed to Israel Saul’s name was changed to buy, and another example maybe cried.

A special name was reserved in heaven for a special person*, a name that no one before or since could qualify for. The Name was announced and was first spoken to the shepherd by the angles on the hills of Bethlehem. “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). An4aa4te-of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said: “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shaft call his name JESUS: for he shall save His people from their sins” (Matt,1:21)

A fit Name was given for a fit Person; “Jesus Christ”, the only one who could provide and execute salvation for mankind. It is little wonder that Satan has made that lovely Name a curse word upon the lips of men worldwide.

Even as a special Name was reserved in the heavens for the Messiah so a special Name was reserved for the coming Holy Spirit. There is little value in researching the Name in Greek, Aramaic or Hebrew because its roots are in heaven.

It would be a Name fit for the work of the Holy Spirit. His work would be to comfort, protect, develop, preserve, guide, enlighten and a host of additional responsibilities, this

is why there are so many names and symbols of the Holy Spirit, each signifying a different aspect of His work.

PARACLETE

Our Lord called the Holy Spirit the “Paraclete”, “But when the comforter comes, whom I will send unto you from the father/ even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of me”: (John 15:26).

Different translators have used the word “Comforter” “Advocate”, “Teacher, “Guide,” or “Helper” because He is all and more than each Name signifies.

The word Paraclete – Parakleetos – means call to one’s aid”. That is why the word is so easily translated as “Comforter”. He is like a parent responding to a child in need of assurance and aiding the child with whatever his need may be, whenever he may be in need.

Jesus had announced to the disciples that He was leaving. As He was their provider, protector, sustainer and Teacher, they felt they were being abandoned. They did not yet understand that they would be more secure** and better provided for if He left with his limited humanity and sent the Holy Spirit with His full Omni-qualities, “I will send you another, the Paraclete, the one who will come to your aid”.

Would He be a Person, visible as Jesus was? How could be more effective? Who could possibly exist? Or who could come that could replace the greatest Person that ever came to earth? These and a host of questions must have rushed through the disciple’s minds as the dramatic announcement was made. The reply of our Lord would make no sense to the natural man, for the natural man understands not the things of God. The answer is entirely in the context of “agape” love (John 14:15-18).

“and I will pray for the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter”.

The Godhead become evident in this statement – “I”, the father”, the “Comforter”, He then says that you know the comforter already because He is with you .now, but He “shall be in you”. Jesus added that when He comes to you”, it will be I that will come to you; If you continue in agape7 love, we will all come to you and make our abode with you”.

“Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man loves me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him (John 14:23).

Doesn’t this all sound vague, unreal and unpalatable to the natural man? Surely, such an exchange for the real, personal Christ would be a poor exchange for the unreal. Why make an exchange of the visible for the invisible? If only others could have heard the prayer of our Lord in John 17, they would have understood:

“And now, O Father glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was: (John 17:5).

They would have understood that He was not talking about His human physical state, but rather of His reinstated glorified state in heavenly places. He would be ministering to them and all disciples from his re endowed Omni -qualities -a state with access to the infinite treasury of His grace.

The one who is appoint^to administer these riches of this grace (Eph. 1:7) is the blessed Paraclete. He will strengthen you, comfort you and provide all your needs according to His riches in glory.

“That He would grant you, according to the riches of His Glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner-man”, (Eph. 3:16)

Since Christ has re-entered into co-equality with God and has re-assumed all Omni qualities – since He has been exalted to the father’s right hand with access to all the riches of glory, He is able to do much more for Church than He could do if He remained physically on earth, therefore, the precious Holy Spirit is given to come to our aid and make available to us all that Christ is in this exalted state. Even when we know not how to pray, He makes intercession on our behalf.

Likewise, the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot of uttered” (Romans 8:26).

Not only does the Holy Spirit responds when we need Him, but He is the “one called to our help” as the Lord needs Him. Our Lord knows and sees us in our need, we know much better than we do what our need & and dangers are; our Lord calls on the Holy Spirit to Custer to us, to care for us, to develop us, to lead us and even fail us out when we are in trouble.

Sometimes*our eyes are so blind that we cannot see the wonderful things our Lord has prepared for us. It is like the eldest servant of the servant was” ruler over all that he had” ((gen. 24:2). The servant took ten camels with supplies and riches “for all the goods of his master were in his hand5:” (Gen. 24;10).

Under divine direction, he met Rebekah and gave her silver and gold and garments (verse 53). He told her all about his master and the fact that the father had turned all things over to his own wonderful son (Vs.36).

In reality, this is what the Father has assigned the Holy

Spirit to do-to come to this world and gather a bride unto His son, a Virgin without spot or blemish; to prepare and make her fit in sanctification and holiness, to be joined to Him who is Holy.

Jesus authorized the Holy Spirit to tell us all things that the Father hath are mine” and that He would take that which is Christ’s and show it unto us.

But when the comforter comes, whom I will send unto, proceedeth from the Father, We shall testify of me” (John 15:26).

Just as Isaac received the beautiful bride that he was worthy of, so our Lord will have His bride presented to Him who is worthy. She will be without support or blemish. He will not be disappointed in her, and she will be enraptured, delighted and overwhelmed in Him.

Paraclete also means advocate or one whom we call to our aid to plead our cause. We are upon an advocate because He can plead our cause more effectively than we are able to plead our own.

This word is used in reference to Jesus Christ who alone is able to plead our cause before the Father.

My little children, these things write I unto you that ye sin$ not. And If any man sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 Jn. 2:1).

Now that He is going away, He is saying to His disciples: “I will send you another ‘advocate’ that will not leave you, but will abide with you forever (John 14:16). He will come to your aid; he will plead your cause effectively;

He comforts you and He will never leave you. It is for your benefit that I leave and the omnipresent, omniscient, omni¬potent Holy Spirit will come and abide eternally” (John 16:7).

Jesus is our Advocate in heaven. He does not plead our innocence. He knows that we are guilty and that we have

broken God’s laws. He Pleads on our behalf the efficacy of His atoning blood. He becomes the propitiation for our sins. His blood is over fresh upon our Mercy seat. Jesus Christ ever lives at the Father’s right hand and is our Advocate. We never need fear that our confessed and forgiven sins will be brought up against us again.

The Holy spirit’s work is primarily to represent Christ. “He shall glorify me: for He shall receive of mine and shall shew it unto you. All things that their hath are mine, therefore, said I, that He shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you”. (John 16:14-15).

Christ is the theme of the Holy Spirit’s speech, of His activities, and of His interests. He is displaying the riches of Christ’s resources He is Abraham’s servant, ministering to the spiritual Isaac’s bride, the Church.

The servant ministered to Rebekah until she was delivered into the arms of her Isaac. The Holy Spirit continues to minister to the Church as Christ’s Advocate and will continue to do so until the church is safely delivered at the great marriage of the Lamb (Rev. 19:21).

1. THE HOLY SPIRIT AS WIND

The first manifestation of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost was like unto a rushing might wind (Acts 2:3).

Jesus, instructing Nicodemus pertaining to the New birth, likened the work of the Holy Spirit in regeneration unto the wind. As the natural man can feel the wind, but cannot

see it, so the spirit works in the spiritual man and fete knows it (John 3:8).

The first mention of wind in the Bible is in Genesis 8: 1 After Noah, his family and animal kingdom were in the Ark for one hundred and fifty days, God made a wind to pass over the earth, and the waters assuaged”. The blowing of the wind- removed judgment. The human and animal families were able to return to their habitat and replenish the earth.

In the whole Noah story, we see the wind, the dove and the fire in sacrifice. These emblems were also seen in the baptism of Jesus and that of enduement of power, of Jesus and at Pentecost was for the purpose of bringing many sons unto glory. Surely we needed a blowing of the wind on our lives and our generation.

On the day of Pentecost, the wind “came” as a sound from heaven as a rushing mighty wind”. It was not a mighty “rushing” wind. We have a tendency to put the emphasis upon the “rushing” rather than the “mighty”.

Our explanations and expectations surrounding a pentecostal experience anticipate a rushing boisterous experience – whereas we should anticipate a mighty experience.

God is always in the rushing, strong wind. When God sought to speak to his discouraged prophet, Elijah, He asked him to stand upon the mountain before the Lord. Several things happened there (1 Kings 19:9).

1. A great strong wind passed that literally dislodged boulder and sent them crashing down the mountainside. The Lord was not in the wind.

2. He caused an earthquake that must have sent further rocks crashing into the valleys. The Lord was not in the earthquake.

3. He then sent a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. It seems by now that Elijah disappeared from standing “upon” the mounted and took refuge in a cave Averse 13). One cannot blame the prophet for hiding, if he did, in the midst of such a strong wind, earthquake and fire.

4, Then there came “a small voice and God was in that”. Elijah responded and later proceeded to anoint a king and Elisha, his successor. Mighty powerful things followed the “stall small voice” experience. The important thing is that he had an experience that catapulted him into new dimensions of spiritual achievements.

Whether your experience is through a rushing mighty wind of a still small voice, I pray that it may be a life-changing experience.

a) Wind produces life.

b) Wind separates the wheat from the chaff.

c) Wind fans the dying coals and sets them ablaze.

d) Wind purifies as it blows away debris.

e) Wind brings blessings as it blows rain clouds across

The sky and the ships across the oceans It is little wonder that the wind is an emblem of the Holy Spirit.

Then said he unto me, prophesy unto the wind, prophesy,

son of man, and say to the wind, thus said the Lord God; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon this slain that they may live” (Ezekiel 37:9).

2. THE HOLY SPIRIT AS FIRE

The second manifestation of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost is “Cloven tongues like as of fire.

The New Testament church was being endued with power to go forth with the operation of the gifts of the spirit in signs and wonders; to take back the kingdom that Adam had betrayed to Satan and to establish the kingdom of their Lord. It is interesting to note that when Adam’s dominion had ended, and the gates to the Garden of Eden were closed, the physical evidence seen was a “flaming sword which turned every way to keep the way of the tree of life” (Gen.324), if men had eaten of the tree of life they could have lived forever.

Now, in the new covenant, since men have freely partaken of “the tree of life” Jesus, and have set about to restore the kingdom to the second Adam, Jesus, the fire re-appears not to keep them back but to send them forth to flaming ministers.

When God’s ministers become aflame with the fire of zeal, authority and power, nothing will be able to stand before them. When Elijah faced the satanic forces of Baal’s false prophets, (1 Kings 18:38) God sent down fire from heaven to prove that Elijah God was the true God and Elijah was His prophet.

The fire must have been exceptionally hot as the stone was reduced to ashes. The fact that the fire came down from above and burned the sacrifice from the top down, was evidence that this was no ordinary fire.

When Abraham took the fire in his hand he carried it to Mount Moriah (Gen. 22:6) for the expressed purpose of making a complete sacrifice unto the Lord. Likewise, when the fire came down on the day of Pentecost and sat upon each of them”. It was evident that each person in that upper room had laid down his life as a complete living sacrifice unto the Lord (Rom. 12:1). The fire of the Holy Ghost will only come upon a life that is wholly consecrated and presented as a sacrifice unto Him.

There are so many shortcuts taken to “a* baptism in the Holy Ghost when shortcuts are taken, the fire is not there. The fire will only come down upon that which sacrificed unto the Lord.

This truth is evident in the sacrifice made by Abraham. He laid the sacrifice before the Lord and kept the unclean birds away until the fire of God came and consumed it (Gen. 15:11(The enemy always has unclean birds that do

not want lives presented as living sacrifices unto God so that the fire may come upon us and send forth as flaming messengers.

Without unduly labouring on the at of the point and sacrifice, it is interesting to look in a concordance see how many times the terminology offering made by fire unto the Lord” is recorded in the Bible, There are ever seventy such references in the book of Leviticus alone. It becomes a sacrifice made to the Lord.

The Tabernacle. Alters were ineffective without the fire. The blood may have been shed, but the fire must consume the sacrifice. The incense may be applied, but the fire must consume it before it is acceptable. The blood of the lamb must be applied to the doorpost, but the lamb must be “roast with fire” and eaten.

Many gaps could be written as to why fire is an emblem of the Holy Spirit. Fire will warm what is cold and melt what is lukewarm, it dispels darkness and purifies the impure. Fire can explode into a huge flame or continue to burn slowly over a prolonged time. Fire has the power to set other fires. May we be so set ablaze by His Spirit that others in turn will be affected.

3. THE HOLY SPIRIT AS THE DOVE

When Jesus was baptized with the Holy Spirit, the physical evidence was not the wind or the fire, but a dove (Mtt.16,17)., The spirit of God descending like a dove”. It not

a dove, but “the Spirit of God descending like a dove.” Came from heaven as the heaven open and a voice from heaven said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased”.

The first mention of doves in the Bible is in the book of Gen. 8.8. Noah opened the window of the ark and released a dove to see if it would bring any evidence of land – and thus an end to God’s judgment. However, the dove did not find a resting place at this time and returned to the ark.

Just as God’s righteous man, Noah, opened the door and released the dove, so God, who is a!! righteousness opened the door of heaven and released His dove. It immediately found a resting place. It was a specially prepared person with dove-like qualities.

Jesus was conceived of the Holy Spirit, He walked in the Spirit; He received the Spirit upon Him (John 1:32,33). This launched Him into his public ministry, until this event, He performed no public miracle or healings.

After this special anointing, the first event was the temptation in the wilderness. The same Spirit that came upon Him now led Him to a head-on collision with the master of temptation, Satan himself. This battle must be won on a person-“to-person basis before a successful ministry could be launched. His earthly life was inaugurated by the Spirit, manifested in ministry by signs and wonders by the Spirit, manifested in God in sacrifice by the Spirit (Heb.9:14).

The dove was used in sacrifices because it was a clean bird. As a lamb typifies Him, so does the dove typify Him. A dove typifies the Holy Spirit in particular. A dove is monogamous, keeping itself to one mate. It is a clean, gentle bird. When The Holy Spirit dwells within us, He will produce the same qualities in us are in our Lord.

‘Though ye lien among the pots shall ye be as the wings of a

dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold7’

(Psalms 68:13).

Silver and gold speak of redemption and deity qualities. That is the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We have had our share of the fleshpots of sin, but the precious Holy Spirit brings silver (redemption) on His wings and develops gold (Christ-like qualities) in us. How patiently He deals with us because He wants us to bear much for God’s glory,

It is interesting to note that when Noah released the dove the second time, it returned with evidence that the waters of judgment had abated. Only then could the dove find a place to rest in peace. The dove came to rest upon Jesus the prince of peace. It could only come to the Church and find an abiding place after Jesus Christ took the judgment of sin upon Himself.

After He offered Himself in sacrifice unto God, the fire came upon the sacrifice. Only after the judgment was meted out and fully executed did the judgment abate,

the resurrection took place, and the dove came upon the church at Pentecost. The Holy Spirit did not go back to heaven but will abide in the church until it is ruptured for marriage supper.

The coming of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost was evident that Jesus was alive in the presence of the Father and the mission was completed. It is said that the Norwegian explore Amundsen, took a homing pigeon with him when he set out to reach the North Pole. Upon reaching his destination, he released the dove. What joyful news it was to his bride back home when she saw the dove and knew that her lover had accomplished his mission!

“My dove, my undefiled is but one; she is the only one of her mother, she is the choice one of her that bears her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; yea, the queen and the concubines, and they praised her” (Solomon’s song 6:9)

4. THE HOLY SPIRIT AS THE DEW

The first mention of dew is:

“Therefore God give thee of the dew of heaven and the fatness

of the earth, and plenty of corn and wine”. (Gen.27:28).

In pronouncing the patriarchal and prophetical blessing* upon Jacob, Isaac promised the dew of heaven upon him and his seed. We know that Jesus the Messiah came through the lineage of Jacob and that the Holy Spirit came from the Father as dew upon the son. The dew has continued to come down upon all His sons, refreshing and empowering them to go forth and much fruit.

Heavy dew in certain areas was the only source of moisture for the vegetation. Moses follows up with a similar blessing upon Israel when he says:

“Israel then shall dwell in safety alone: the fountain shall be upon a land of corn and wine; also his heavens shall drop down dew” (Deut.33:28).

In His farewell blessing upon Israel, the Spirit of the Lord was interested in the immediate future of Israel under Joshua. He was also revelling the latter days

outpourings.

Recently someone asked me, “How can I experience a special anointing that will change my life?” The best reply is to ask another question. How did Jacob experience a life-changing anointing? Was it not after a night of wrestling with the Lord? There is a difference between a blessing and a life-changing crisis experience.

Jacob deceived his father, robbed his brother, then ran away with his mother’s assistance. He had an experience with heaven the very first night. However, it should be noted that Jacob did not leave his father until Isaac blessed him, and then he went to Laban in obedience to his father’s instructions (Gen, 28:7).

En route to Padanaram, the Lord revealed Himself to Jacob in a dream and pronounced a blessing upon him (Gen. 28:11-19).

The blessing followed Jacob in everything he did. His cattle multiplied, he received his beloved wife and he was blessed with many children. However, he did have some difficulties. Time and time again he was put upon God’s unveiling to take out the Jacob- supplanting- nature and make of him Israel.

A real crises experience came as he was preparing o met his brother Esau. He was in fear and trembling. He knew that trouble lay ahead of him. He was “left alone”. In this state, he wrestled with God (Gen. 32:24-32).

Jacob wrestled through the night but did not become a changed man until the early hours of the morning. That is when the dew comes down the heaviest the sinew of Jacob’s thigh shrunk. This signifies the natural strength of man. No more could he walk dependent upon natural strength. His strength henceforth would be the strength of God. His walk would be marked and pronouncedly different.

Men of God still wrestle through the night. Modern shortcut methods to receiving God’s power are attempted but such methods usually prove most ineffective. Some employ Madison Avenue techniques to get an audience and to gain exposure and popularity, but to be a prince with God still calls for all-night wrestling.

We hear objectives to the suggestion of tarrying and wrestling through the night.

Therefore we need not tarry”. It is true that Holy Spirit came on the day of Pentecost to the Church, and your night has received His blessing even have had Him manifest Himself through you. But are you satisfied that you have had a life-changing experience with God—–an experience that has changed your walk?

Only those who have had such encounters will prevail with God and man.

Talk to the man or woman who is walking with God in exceptional compassion, anointing and authority; and if their modesty allows, they will tell you of the nighttime wrestlings and the falling of the mooring dew,

ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL SCRIPTURE PERTAINING TO DEW IS:

“As the dew of Hermon and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessings even life forevermore” (Psalm 133:3).

When in Israel one should tour Mount Harmon and inquire about the dew. Harmon rises sharply from below sea level to almost 10,000 feet. At the foot of the mountain are marshes and the upper Jordan valley. Because of the heart by day, water evaporates and is drawn up the mountainside. As it reaches the higher parts of the mountain and is combined with the coolness of the night and snow the condensation is so heavy that it seems like rain is falling. This provides an inexhaustible supply of moisture for the gardens and vegetation.

This then becomes a beautiful type of the Holy Spirit. As long as the sun shines, the dew of Hermon will not cease. As long as the “son” shines, His supply of the spirit will not cease.

The dew is always associated with the night, !f you are going through your night wrestlings like Jacob, you can be assured of the dew in the morning. Let us at Job’s reference to dew after a night of wrestling and agony.

Refer to job 29:18-20.

“Then I said, I shall die in my nest, and I shall multiply my days as the sand” (Job 29:18).

Here, again, the entrance to life and resurrection power is death. A resurrection and being seated in heavenly places pre-supposes death. We all want life and power, but this cannot come until the self is crucified and put to death. Only after this is done, will come the multiplication of days or long life and usefulness for God. Even in nature, Job lived longer than Joseph, Moses or Joshua (140 years, Job 42:16). Who would think that a man such as Job, deluged with problems and sickness, would live so lone prosper so greatly?

“My root was spread out by the waters, and the dew lay all night upon my branch” (Job. 29:19).

The phrase, “root s by the waters”, always mean prosperity according to the scripture. We have already seen the dew as the natural riches as long as they come out of a death experience. Only then will one know how to handle and use riches for God’s glory rather than riches possessing a person and bringing sorrow and destruction.

In every case, the anointing of the dew is necessary for wisdom and usefulness. There is also a prophetical reference to the dew of the Spirit resting upon the Branch of Jesus, The Branch of Jesse, of course, is none other than our Lord Jesus Christ.

“My glory was fresh in me, and my bow was renewed in my hand” (Job 29:20).

The result of death to self is resurrection, length of days, prosperity with the anointing and rising up with the glory of youth and accuracy of the bow.

Only mature, seasoned men value the glory of youth. Someone said, “It is a pity that youth is wasted on young people;” It is wise to make a blanket statement, but that one carries much truth. So often when one has youth one does not have the experience and the wisdom to do great things for God. By the time experience is acquired and wisdom gained, the strength of youth is gone and only dreams remain.

The patriarch, however, felt the glory of youth and took a fresh grip of the bow. Trembling and weakness had to depart after the dew of the morning, and again

he could arise and shoot the arrow with strength and accuracy. The anointing does make the difference. If you are going through your night of wrestling and death, be encouraged – there will come the dew and the morning. If you feel glory or strength and so want the anointing of the dew, then submit to the trials and tests of the night. Be willing to lay down your life as a living sacrifice bringing death to self. Only then will He be able to bring out spiritual prosperity that will redound to His Glory.

5. THE HOLY SPIRIT AS RIVERS.

“He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his innermost being shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7: 38.)

The first mention of a river in the Bible is Genesis 2:10.

“And a river went out of Eden to water the garden.

If you read the succeeding verses, you will see that it branched out into four rivers watered the garden and the earth. There is no record of there being mountains with snow caps to become the source of the rivers. We have to conclude that its source is we-supernatural. Just4tet as the river in the wilderness that followed Israel was supernatural, so was this river supernaturally started and supplied.

Its purpose was to water the Garden of Eden and make it productive; to supply drinking water to man; to supply water to the beast, fowl and fish which was life to them; and to supply water to the earth. Life was to flow from God by His continuous loving provision. Because God always has a limitless supply of that which He initiates, there would never be a shortage.

While the Spirit started as a river of life, it soon became a “river”. The whole

of God is to multiply and reproduce. With the coming of the Holy Spirit, Jesus saw

the potential of the multiplication of fruit and blessing.

The Holy Spirit would ‘proceed as one river from the throne of God, and comes upon the Son of God. Thereafter, He would proceed from the son, the source of all His sons. There would, in turn, be rivers of living water flowing from the innermost being of all His sons. These rivers would water the thirst of the earth.

The portion of scripture in John 7:37-39 become the basis of our brief study on the Holy Spirit being as a river or river. The weeklong celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles was drawing to a close. It was the eight days and time for the traditional pouring of water and the closing jubilant celebration. The priests in their impressive, solemn annual procession had returned from the pool of Siloam with their golden basis filled with sparkling water. After mixing the water with a vessel of wine, they lifted it up to pour its contents upon the altar. Suddenly the awesome silence was pierced with a loud cry, “if any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink”.

“He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified). John 7:38, 39).

The assembled multitudes were celebrating the flowing of the water both from Eden and that which gushed forth when Moses struck the rock in the wilderness. How could He be silent on such an occasion, knowing that He was that rock?

The priests and people had read the prophet’s promise that but of the temple again there would a river that would get deeper and deeper (Ezek.47:l-12). They were looking for the fulfilment of the above scripture. Jesus knew that He would be that river and the Holy Spirit would flow through countless quiet when the Scripture was being fulfilled before their eyes? Of course, He could not be quiet! It would border on sin to remain silent at this opportune time.

Let us note another sequence of developments in our Lord’s ministry and teaching. In John 4:14 Jesus was talking to a Samaritan woman at the well and offered her a drink of “living water”.

Of course, He was offering her a drink of living, water, eternal life, of which He was the source. In John 7:38, our Lord has made a further revelation – -” not only will those come to Me drink and be satisfied, but out of their innermost being will rivers living water”. The apostle then takes a further step in reporting the occasion by saying that He spoke of the Spirit which they that believe on Him should receive.

The symbol of the river was established by our Lord Himself. The Bridegroom is the source of these flowing streams (Solomon’s Song 4:15). His desire is to have the Holy Spirit flowing like rivers of blessing out of every life. Perhaps our Lord also had Isaiah 58:11 in view when He promised river to flow out of His fellow heirs. Here again, it is interesting to note that such blessing would follow those who

give themselves to a serious, prolonged fast. Every effective blessing follows steps of self-crucifixion.

We must, however, be careful not to leave the impression that these rivers flow because of what we have done. It is true that man must exercise his responsibility to appropriate every grace of His sovereignty. It must not be assumed that we, by any work of our own, can produce that grace. The security of the flow — the living water – – is all Him. We must make sure that we, as vessels, are properly conveying the water.

In some respect, we are like a reservoir containing precious living water. We can enjoy ourselves. His presence in our spirit, let some fruit be evident and maintain a status quo, or we can become so full and overflowing that we will open the gate, allowing that flow to possess our tri-partite being and flow out as rivers to bless others.

The Apostle Paul had no difficulty distinguishing the difference. He knew when he was praying with his understanding and when he was praying in the spirit (1Cor.l4:14, 15).

The following points out another thought to be considered before we leave this very instructive passage of scripture.

“He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38).

“Believeth” is in the present tense and means that as the child of God keeps on believing continuously, he will continually have an uninterrupted flow of living water, a continuous witness. He will continuously be fruit-bearing water. In other

words, there will be no interruptions or seasons for manifestation, but there will be a consistent and continuous flow.

We referred to the river out of Eden that stopped flowing because of sin. There is another river mentioned in Revelation 22:1, 2, that will never cease flowing nor bearing fruit continuously. Our Lord looks for each believer to be so joined to Him that the rivers will flow continuously.

The Holy Spirit is not meant to be trapped in a reservoir. Jesus said the spirit would flow like a river. River s generally carves their own course. Our own Niagara or the canyon are but two of many worldwide illustrations.

Job.28:10 states “He cutteth out rivers among the rocks”. We are “lively out His channels in us which are intended to flow blessings to a needy world.

There is much in all of us that hiders that flow to the sea of mankind; several years ago my wife and I visited the ‘Tidal Bore” in New Brunswick. Visitors gather from all over the world to watch the phenomenon. There is nothing really unexplainable about it. As the river flows down to the ocean and the tide is coming inland from the ocean, there comes a time when two forces meet head-on. The waters pile up, crash and roar, putting on a delightful display of each other’s power. Of course, the strength of the ocean pushes back the water of the river. However, the ocean pressure has to fall back with the tide. This permits the river to flow unhindered until the next encounter with these encounters the river really stops flowing.

In our lives there are resistances to the freedom of the spirit’s flowing, but if we “believe”, He continues to carve His passage for continuous flowing. The Lord does not want a trickle as from a corroded pile but seeks rivers that are ever-deepening and ever-widening. This is clearly portrayed in Ezekiel’s vision of the river that flowed from the reconstructed temple. We can sit back and say, “well, I will wait until the millennium to witness that”, but we should remember that God is building a temple now.

“Ye are the temple of God” (Cor.3:16,17).

“Your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost” (6:19).

He wants rivers in great dimensions flowing from these temples. Ezekiel’s vision is very instructive- (Ezekiel 47:1-5):

“Afterward he brought me again unto the door of the house; and, behold, waters issued out from under the threshold of the house eastward: for the forefront “of the stood toward the east, and the water came down from under from the right side of the house at the south said of the altar. Then brought he me out of the way of the gate northward, and led me about looketh eastward, and behold, there ran out waters on the right side. And when the man that had the line in his hand went forth eastward, he measured a thousand cubits, and he brought me through the waters; the waters were to the ankles. Again he measured a thousand and brought me through the waters; the waters were to the knees. Again he measured a thousand, and brought me through; the rivers were to the loins. Afterwards, he measured a thousand; and it was a river that I could not pass over: for the waters rose, waters to swim in, a river that could not be passed over.

First, the waters were up to the ankles. This immediately suggests walking in the Spirit. An important ingredient t in having rivers of the Spirit flow our innermost being is to walk like Jesus walked (Gal. 5:16, 25; Eph. 2;10;4:1;5:2,15: Col. 1:10; 1 Thess. 2:12; Un. 2:6). Many argue that it cannot be done. God’s word teaches this requirement, and He has made provision for its reality.

2. The second measurement was up to his knees immediately speaking to us of prayer and obeisance. The Bible records those who would not bow the knee and those that would (Gen. 41; 43; Isa. 45;23; Matt. 27:29; Rom. 11:4; 14:11; Phil; 2:10). The willingness to bow our knee before Him and say “Not my will, but thine be done”, is a very important part of Christian character. The man who will not bow in humility and submission disqualifies himself from being a vessel out of which rivers of living water will flow.

Knees are immediately associated with prayer, Naturally, we cannot develop a treatise here on prayer. Prayer is a subject for an entire volume, It is very important to exercise prayer in order to be a vessel fit to release rivers of living water.

While he was waiting for the cloudburst on top of Mount Carmel, Elijah “cast himself down upon the earth, and put his between his knees” (1 kings 18:42) in intercessory prayer.

Ezra, recognizing how far the nation had drifted from God and that their iniquities had filled the land, fell upon his knees before God in confession and intercession (Ezra 9:5).

Our Lord came to the Garden of Gethsemane” and kneeled down and prayer”. The prayer that flowed has been the subject of scrutiny by the knees’ minds. They have prodded its contents, written volumes about its depths. Our Lord chose to be on his knees as rivers poured through His being.

We could list many cases where travailing and prevailing prayer was offered upon one’s knees. To qualify for the succeeding measurements calls for entering the river to the ankles and to the knees.

3. The third measurement was to the loins. There are two specific meanings of loin s in scripture. One has reference to progeny:

Gen. 35:ll-“kings shall come out of thy loins.

Exod. 1:5- “souls that come out of the loins” of Jacob”,

Acts. 2:30- “The fruit of his loins”.

Heb. 7:5- “They came out of the loins of Abraham”.

The other references have to do with strength:

11 kings 4:29 – “Gird up thy loins and take my staff”.

Job 38:3 -Gird up thy loins like a man; for I will demand of

thee, and answer thou me”.

Nahum 2:1 – “make thy loins strong, and fortify thy power

mightily”.

Eph. 6:14 – “stand, therefore, having your loins girt about with

truth.”

Both applications are very appropriate here. If we walk as He walked, pray as He prayed and walk in the Spirit; we will be strong, and we will be spiritually reproductive. God said to the first family “Be fruitful and multiply.” It was His desire to have a family and a holy nation that walked in His way and commandments. For this purpose, He has raised us up, that we shall bring many sons unto the glory and be strong as we walk in the strength of the Lord.

4. The next measurement was beyond the capacity of man – – waters to swim in and yet a river that man could not pass over.

There is a time when by His strength and power we can walk, pray, win souls and be strong. We say with the Apostle Paul, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me” (Phil. 4:13).

There then comes a place in our maturity in Christ when we must say, “I am crucified with Christ nevertheless I live, yet not I, but Christ live the in me, and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God… “(Gal, 2:20).

There is a place of total abandonment of self ability – of thrusting out into the deep waters because e I cannot do it myself – of abandoning my ability and letting Him live that life He desires through me.

Ezekiel’s river ultimately emptied itself into the sea (Rev. 13:1). This is exactly what our Lord wants us to be willing for Him to do with us. He wants us to be carried by the current of the might river; carried out into the sea of humanity where we will not minister from our intellect or abilities. In the power of the Spirit, we will bring healing to the masses of humanity. Ezekiel’s river brought healing to the sea (Ezk. 47:8).

6. THE HOLY SPIRIT AS OIL

oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit both in the Oil Testament and New Testament. We shall not expound this truth at great length because we deal with it in “Pattern for Living” under the heading of Holy Anointing Oil”. In the pattern for Living, we saw that the ingredients were carefully selected. Mixture and preparation details were given by the Divine Apothecary Himself.

God called Moses into His laboratory, instructed how the oil should be made and said, “This shall be holy anointing oil unto me throughout your generations” (Exod.30:30).

CERTAIN WARNINGS ACCOMPANIED THE INSTRUCTIONS:

It shall not be poured upon man’s (natural man) or any man’s flesh.

It shall not be duplicated for any purpose.

It shall be considered holy unto you.

Anyone who duplicates it or puts it on strangers shall be cut off from Israel.

The holy anointing oil, as no other oil in Holy Scriptures, symbolizes the Holy Spirit. The High Priest could not function until certain things happened.

He could not serve unless he was called to that ministry.

He had to have the efficacy of the blood from the sin offering.

He had to be consecrated. That involves e d special sacrifices, special washing and

application of the blood to the right ear, the right thumb and the right great toe.

After the priest was clothed, he had to have this special anointing oil poured

upon him until it, freely ran down his beard and clothes.

Jesus said to His disciples, Tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high: (Luke 24:49).

The ingredients that went into the composition of this holy anointing oil are listed in our Tabernacle studies. We will mention here that myrrh, sweet cinnamon, sweet calamus and cassis make a rich study. Each brings out characteristics and ministry of the Holy Spirit.

Queen Esther took one year in preparation before she appeared before kin Ahasuerus. For six months, in particular, the perfumers used the oil of myrrh. Of course, she was received and chosen by the king (Esther 2).

If our king will be well pleased with us, we must be continually bathed in the oil of

the Holy Spirit. Only the Holy Spirit can make us presentable and acceptable unto

him.

In our study of the Tabernacle, we saw that the tent curtains, furniture, utensils,

the priests in their garments everything had to be anointed with oil. The

simply meant that nothing could be used or presented without the Holy Spirit

being a part of it.

The composition of the oil used in the candlestick was different. Its purpose was to give forth light. The table of showbread was seen and bread eaten by this light. We cannot understand nor feast on the word unless the precious Holy Spirit enlightens and illumines its truths.

Likewise, prayer, which the Altar of Incense represents, cannot be acceptably offered unless anointed by the Holy Spirit.

The almost countless offerings that were made unto the Lord had oil in them or oil upon them. There is nothing that we can be or of or the Lord that would be acceptable unless it is done in and by the Holy Spirit.

The elders are to anoint with oil (have the Holy Spirit) when praying for the sick

(Jamesi5:14).

The five foolish virgins had no oil in their vessels when the Bridegroom came, and they were left behind (Matt. 25).

Some have preached that the oil mentioned in Matt. 25 was the blessed Holy

Spirit. Because they didn’t have it, they were left behind. However, never build

doctrine on a parable. Truth is derived from parables and is especially illustrated

by their would suggest, if we must take the truth from this parable, that the blessed; Holy Spirit is best illustrated by the holy anointing oil which was only applied to the priests. We who are saved, of course, are all priests unto God and therefore all qualify for^ the blessed Holy Spirit.

The oil in the vessel was to burn for the purpose of giving light. This oil is naturally represented by the Holy Spirit. It gives regeneration, maintains sanctification, and actually keeps one in the light. Could it then be that the five foolish virgins are representative of those who were all depending upon others for the if light?

Recently I heard a report from one of the denominations in America. They made, a survey of their hundreds of members and came up with the report that

only 50% of their members had a personal knowledge e of salvation by Jesus

Christ. What would happen to that denomination if the rapture should take place now? It appears that half would be left behind.

Let us see to it that our vessel is full of the Holy Spirit – that we move and have our being in the power of the Holy Spirit. He is God’s special Agent on the earth. All that has to do with us is His responsibility. He is accountable to the Father for us. Let us give Him complete freedom over lives.

The Holy Spirit is seen in the Holy Bible as God, as a real separate personal and different from both the Father and Christ. He is a personal member of the Godhead or Deity. On the other hand, He is the third person of the Trinity.

HISTORY AND THE HOLY SPIRIT

Holy Spirit in the old testament. The Holy Spirit was before existent as the third person of the Trinity of Godhead. He has been always active, but the time comes before Pentecost was not the period of His peculiar activity, the old testament time was one of preparation and waiting. The Holy Spirit has started operating before the Pentecost.

During the old testament time, a spirit came upon men temporarily only to inspire them for extraordinary service and relinquished them when the particular task was ended. He did not usually abide with them a dwell in them Examples of many instances of the special visitation of the Holy Spirit to the old testament days upon.

Joseph and Bezaleel (Gen- 41:38, Exo. 3:1…6; 30.35).

Moses, Joshua, the seventy elders and the Judes Moses was filled with the Holy Spirit. Isa. 63: 11? Num. 11:17,25. It is recorded of Joshua in Num. 27:18 and

Deut. 34:9. Also certain Judges 3:10, about Gideon in Judges 6:34 about

Jephthah in Judges 11:29 and about Samson in Judges 13;25; 14:6,19 and 15:14.

Saul and David Is am 10.6 10; 11:6.19:23;16:14;16:13, pa.51;ll.

1:21. Micah 3:8, Zach..4:6, Nathan 2 Sam 12: 1 Elijah I kings 17:1, 2 Elisha 2 kings

2:21.

The Holy Spirit prophesied. The people the Holy Spirit visited prophesied. This

was authentic in the case of the seventy elders who received the spirit of

Moses ;as: recorded in Numbers 11:16> 17, 25-29. The prophets of I Sam. 10:5-11

prophesied as did Saul, when the Holy Spirit came upon them.

He was with all Israel Isa. 63:9-14, l\leh,9:20, Hag. 2:5.

Prediction of general out poring, Joe! 2:28-29.

Messiah to be spirit filled> Isa. 11:1-3 and also Isa.61

 

(b) THE hlOLY SPIRIT IN THE NEW TESTAMENT.

This time, which prolongs from Pentecost to the present day, may truly be called the age of the Holy Spirit. In the old testament, God uses to visit people but after Pentecost, in the spirit, God comes to well in men. Now He comes to abide,

f j Pentecbst picture the growing light in the morning of a new day in the Holy Spirit’s

relation^to mankind;

The Holy Spirit featured the Birth of John the Baptist and of Jesus (Lk. 1:15,

35,41-42, 67. Lk. 1:46-55, Lk.2:25-27.

In Jesus’ ministry John. 1:32-33, Acts 10:38, Lk. 4:21, Matt. 3:12, Lk. 4:14, Matt. 3:16,

Mk.l:12, Lk.4:14, Mtt. 12:28, 9:14,: Acts 1:2.

Prediction by John the Baptist of general outpouring (Lk. 3:16.

Christ prediction of the spirit coming, John,415; 7:37-38, Lk. 11:13, John. 14:16, 14:17,:26, 16, 16:7-15.

Christ Breathed the Holy Spirit upon the disciples, John. 20:22, Acts 1:4-5; 18,9.

THE DEITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy SPIRIT IS SPOKEN OF AS God, Acts 5:3-4, 1 Cor. 3:16-17. 1 Cor. 6:19-20, 1 Cor. 12:1-11.

DIVINE NAMES AND TILES

The Divine names and titles of the Holy Spirit prove his deity and oneness with the Father, (a) Four major Names of the Holy Spirit

1- Spirit of God – This is the Spirit that draws men to Christ, reveals the truth, guides, disciplines Eph. 4:30, 1 John. 4:2.

2. SPIRIT OF CHRIST-

imparts Christ-life produces Christ fruits, reveals things of Christ, imparts the power of Christ, takes place of Christ. Rom. 8:9, John. 16.

3. Holy Spirit-Emphasis on Holiness, 1 John. 3:24, 1 Cor. 2:10

4. COMFORTER: Paraclete communion of the Holy Spirit, b. Divine Titles:

1. The Spirit of grace, Heb. 10:29.

2. The Spirit of life, the spirit of life in our bodies s Rom.8:2 Rev. 11:11.

3. The Spirit of adoption Rom.8:15.

4. The spirit of Holiness Rom. 1:4

5. The Spirit of supplication, Zachariah 12:10

6, The. spirit of truth – Teaching, the work of the spirit John. j!4;l7; 15:26; 16:13, 1

7. The spirit of Glory (1 pt. 4:14) Also we have symbols of the Holy Spirit fire/ wind, water, A seal, oil, and the dove.

DIVINE ATTRIBUTES

The Holy Spirit has the attributes of Eternity and self-existence (Heb. 9:14) omnipresence (Ps. 139:7-10) omnipotence (Lk. 1:35, Acts 10:38) omnipresence 1 Cor. 2:10-11, creator, Job 33:4, Ps. 104:30) Holiness (Rom. 1:4) Love, Joy, Peace.

Long-suffering, gentleness, Goddess, Faith, meekness and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23) Fellowship (Phil. 2:1) Glory (1 Pt 4:14) life (Rom. 8:1) wisdom and knowledge

(Rom 1:4) Grace (Heb, 10:29) Truth (John, 1417)

Authority (Mi 12:28} Decision. (1 Cor, 12:9- ll).

Hearing and speech (John. 15:26, 16, 16:13-15 unselfishness (John. 16:13- 15) self-action (Gen. 1:2) John. 14:16-17, 26.

4. The Holy Spirit is associated with the Father and son as an equal member of deity ( Matt. 28:19, 2 Cor. 13:14, Eph. 4:1-6, 1 Cor. 12:1-11, 1 John. 5:7-8).

(5) Holy Spirit Divine character and individual traits vindicate Him be divine.

(6) Divine] works performed by him In creation (Job 33:4, Ps. 104:30) In the imperfection of life (Rom 8:1) authorship of divine prophesy (2 pt, 2;21).

(7) Divine offices are ascribing d to the Holy Spirit. He is the author of the new birth and Direct Executive of God in all phases of creation and redemption (Gen. 1:2, JN. 3:3-5) the inspirer of the Holy Spirit scriptures (2 Tim. 3:15-17, 2pt.l:21) the general overseer of the churches (Acts 20:28) the bestower of spiritual gifts (1 Cor.12); the comforter and helper and guide of all saints Jn.14:16-17, 26, Rom.8:26); the convincer of sin (Jn. 16:7-15); the power of God on the earth

(Acts 10:38, 1:8) the great teacher of men (Isa. 11:1-2; Jn, 14:16-17, 26); the preserver of all things (Ps. 104:29-30); the witness for God on earth Jn. 15:26) the healer of saints (Rom. 8:11); and character builder 2 Cor. 3:18, 2 Pt. 1:5-10.;

3. THE PERSONALITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead. The Father and son sent

him to direct believers. The Holy Spirit is a person sine He can be drawn pear too,

can be avoided, trusted or doubted, loved or hated, worshipped or abused.

It is the greatest significance that we believe in the divinity of the Holy

Spirit, and also His personality. To be frank, it is only when we study these truths

that we can give Him the Honor, worship, adoration and personal respect that we render to God. We must also study that the Holy Spirit is a person who is

infinitely wise, holy just and gracious and who seeks to get hold of us and use us.

POINTS THAT VINDICATE THAT HE IS A REAL PERSON

Personal names are given to Him.

The Bible uses masculine personal pronouns in referring to the Holy Spirit (Jn. 15:26, Jn. 16; 7, 8, 13, 14).

The Holy Spirit is a person for He possesses certain characteristics will power (1 Cor. 12:11) Intelligence (Neh. 9:20) knowledge 10 Cor. 2:10-12) power (Act s 1:8) capacity for love (Rom. 5:30) – capacity for grief (Eph. 4:30) – The Holy Spirit has emotion – He can be insulted (Heb. 10:29) – He can lie to (Acts 5:3) – He can be blasphemed (Matt. 12:31-32):-

Personal acts are ascribed to the Holy Spirit. Throughout the scriptures, the Holy Spirit is represented as a personal agent, performing acts attributable only to a person;

He searches the profound things of God, 11 Cor. 2:10

He teaches s; Jn. 14:26

He makes intercession (Norn; 8:26)

He leads and guides Rom. 8:14, Acts 16:67.

He calls and commissions men, Acts 13:2, 20:28.

Official.

The Holy Spirit has been assigned a definite office (Jn. 14:16) He is the

Comforter. The Greek Work here “parakletos” denotes one alongside”.

He is an a’ personal companion. As a person, He becomes our best friend to guide us and comfort us.

A person is anyone who can think, feel and act; anyone capable of self-consciousness and self – determination, any individual having legal rights and duties; a rational being with bodily presence, soul, passions, and spiritual faculties. If this is not true of the Holy Spirit, as we have seen in all the facts mentioned above, there is nothing in the bible that is vivid. How could the Holy Spirit do all the things spoken of as God, and have many divine personal names, titles, offices, acts?

attributes, and receive personal treatment and be spoken of by personal pronouns? Thus we must conclude that Holy Spirit is a real person if we want to

harmonize all scripture.

(b) Difference between personality and corporeity. There are those who have difficulty in separating between personality (being a person) and corporate (having a body) They cannot apprehend or believe that anything which is invisible and intangible and does not have a body, can be a person. Jesus said Lk. 24: 29. He said, “God is spirit (Jn. 4:24) It is recorded “No man hath seen God at any time” Jn. 1:18) Thus God exists as an invisible spirit without flesh and bones. But the creator and Ruler of the world of persons must be Himself a person. The Holy Spirit is a Spirit, like God the Father and so the Holy Spirit is also a person. His omnipresence is an impossible conception if we confine Him to a body. Having the faculties and attributes of a person constitutes a person, whether or not that person customarily resides in a body.

The Works Of The Holy Spirit

The scripture enfolds many works of the Holy Spirit among men, apprehending these acts on behalf of God and man will enable one to see what he should expect

in his personal life. The bible enfolds that the Holy Spirit has been very active. His

activity has been revealed in regard to Christians, the ministry of the Holy Spirit has changed since Pentecost the spirit has a come and go ministry If] the old

testament. He came to indwell Christians and abide in the living Church of Christ at Pentecost.

Facts of the Holy Spirit. Moved upon chaotic earth and restored it to habitable state in six days and created a new life as see it today (Gen. 1:2, Ps. 104:30,Job.

33:4) Gave Joseph the power to interpret dreams ( Gen. 41:14-44) filled the workers of the tabernacle with wisdom and knowledge to make material things that the ordinary man could hot -do, Exod. 28:3,31:3,35:31) Enabled Moses and the elders of Israel to give just judgment and He endured them with physical strength that no natural man could have had (Num. 11:10-25) Gave men the power to prophecy (Num 1:125-30; 24:2 1Sam 10:6-11 19:20-23 2Sam. 23:2, Chron. 15:1-7;20:14-9;

24:20-23. Gave men power to impart spiritual gifts to others (Num.34:9, Rom.1:11, 1 Tim. 4:14, 2 Tim. 1:6, Heb. 6:1) gave men to victory in war (Judges 3:10; 6:34; 11:29; 1 Sam. 11:6) Gave Samson supernatural physical strength t (Judge s 13:25; 14:6, 19:15:14) and made Saul into another man (1 Sam. 10:6-11 inspired men to write songs (2Sam. 23: 2) Departed from the lives of men (1 Sam. 16:13-23, Ps. 51:11) Gave men different degrees or measures of power (Num. 11:10-23, 2 Kings! 22:9, Jn.3:34). Rested upon men (1 Isa. 11:2; 42:11; 61:1, Lk. 4:16-21) Anointed men freely like rain Isa. 32:15; 44:3. Eze. 39:29, Joel 2:28-29) He was equal With the Father in sending the prophets (Isa. 48:16) has entered into people (Eze. 2:i; 3:24, Dan. 4:9;

A. IN RELATION TO JESUS CHRIST

Conceded by the Holy Spirit (Lk. 1:35)

Anointed with the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:28)

Led by the Spirit (Matt. 4:1)

Filled, with the Holy Spirit (Lk. 4:1)

Accomplished His ministry in the power of the Spirit (Lk. 4:18,19)

Sacrificially offered Himself through the spirit (Heb. 9:14)

Resurrected by the spirit (Rom. 8:11) Bestowed of the Holy Spirit (Act s 2:33.

Jesus lived his life in absolute dependence upon the subjection to the Holy

Spirit.

B. IN RELATION TO THE SCRIPTURES

The author of the scripture (2pt. 1:20, 21, Jn, 16:13, 2Tim. 3:16, 2 Pt.3:15-16).

The interpreter of the scriptures Eph. 1:17, Jn. 16:14-16, 1 Cor. 2:9-14.

The scriptures were given by the inspiration of the Spirit, and their true interpretation is only possible through His illumination.

C. IN RELATION TO UNREGENERATE MEN.

The principal or work of the

1. Holy Spirit in relation to the unsaved is that of conviction.

2. He strives with them (Gen. 6:3)

3. He witnesses to them (Jn, 15:26, Acts 5:30-32)

5. He convicts the world also of Christ’s righteousness, involving the trie veracity

of His claims, as attested by His going to the Father (Acts 2:33).

6, He convicts the world of judgment. The Holy Spirit by the truth strives with

men and brings them under conviction.

C. IN RELATION TO CHRISTIANS

1. He regenerates s Jn. 3:3-6, Titus 3:5, 1 Pt. 1:23, Jn. 6:63, Eph. 5:25-26.

2. He baptizes into the body of Christ (Jn. 1:32-34, 1 Cor. 12:12, 13,

Acts 1:5).

3. He indwells (1 Cor.. 6:15-19, 1 Cor.3:16, Rom. 8:9).

4. He seals Eph. 1:13,14, Eph. 4:30

5. He convicts the world also of Christ’s righteousness, involving the veracity of His Claims, as attested by His going to the Father (Acts 2:33).

6. He convicts the world of judgment. The Holy Spirit by the truth strives with

men and brings them Under conviction.

D. IN RELATION TO CHRISTIANS

1. He regenerate s Jn, 3:3-6, Titus 3:5, 1 Pt. 1:23, Jn, 6:63, Eph. 5:25-26.

2. He baptizes into the body of Christ (Jn. 1:32-34, 1 Cor. 12:12, 13, Acts 1:5).

He dwells (1 Cor, 6:15-19, l:COr.3:16; ROM 8:9),

He seals Eph, 1;13,14; Eph; 4: 30

5. He gives assurance 2 Cor. 1:12, 22.

6. He strengthens Eph. 3:16.

7. He infill’s (Eph. 5:18-20)

8. He liberates Rom. 8:2

9. He directs Rom. 8:14

10. He calls to special service (Acts 13:2, 4)

11. He guides in service (Acts 8:27-29) He equips for SERVICE.

12. He illumines 1Cor. 2:12, 14,

13. He instructs Jn. 16:13,14

14. He empowers (1Thess. 1:5, Act s 1:8, 1 Cor. 2:1-5) He produces the fruits of Christ-like graces (Gal. 5:22, 23) Holy Spirit make possible all forms of communion with God.

15. Prayer Jude 20, Rom. 8:26-27, Eph. 6; 18.

16. Worship and praise Phil. 3:3.

17. Thanksgiving Eph. 5:18-20.

The Holy Spirit has led men to be tested (Matt. 4.1) Has spoken through men in

their own tongue as well various languages (Matt. 10:20) Acts 2:4; 10:44-49;

19:1-6, 1 Cor. 12:1-14:40 Has been given to men without measure Jn. 3:34;

7:37-39,14:12 Has spoken to men as a person Acts 8:29;10:19;11:12) Has caused men to have holy desires (Rom. 9:1-13)

The HolySpirit has produced these and many other benefits to men in different ages in the past and he will bring every individual of these benefits today to every born again child of God if he will but study the truth and comply with the

plan of God. The spirit of God has worked in all past dispensations and has

blessed men according to the plight of God and according to the personal faith and these will be the examples always.

thanks for joining this intense study. I shall stop here for now till the next update.

From this part of the world, It is all thanks and be rupturable, from pastor Godstrong.

 

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GODSPOWER STRONG aka “GODSTRONG”

 

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