We’re diving into a new series, one that I believe will draw us closer to the heart of God. Together, we’ll explore what it means to truly live in the Spirit. You see, here at Hope, we’re committed to being a church of both Word and Spirit. What does that mean? It means our foundation is rooted firmly in Scripture – the Word of God, our compass for life. But we’re also devoted to living by the Spirit, relying on the power, presence, and guidance of the Holy Spirit in our everyday lives.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll unpack what it means to live out both truths, asking ourselves how we might open our hearts wider to His transforming power. It is impossible to live as a Christ follower without the Holy Spirit. The power that we need as disciples of Christ is only found through the Spirit.
Until now, we haven’t yet focused on what it looks like to live a Spirit-led life specifically. This is important, because following Christ is impossible without the Holy Spirit. We need His power to guide, shape, and empower us on this journey of discipleship. The Holy Spirit is not an optional extra to our faith – we have to know the Spirit.
Scripture covers many themes around the Spirit such as being baptized in, filled by, empowered for, sealed by, given gifts to – all for the purpose of knowing the Father and becoming like the Son as we fulfill our purpose on Earth!
As we move forward, we’ll be addressing some foundational questions: Who is the Holy Spirit? What is His purpose in our lives? How does He empower us with spiritual gifts, some of which might even challenge our comfort zones? What about praying in tongues or prophecy? And how do the fruits of the Spirit tie in with these gifts? Through His Word, God has given us a clear and beautiful picture of the Holy Spirit, and we’ll be looking at that more closely together.
Four Perspectives Toward the Holy Spirit
Let’s first recognize that we come from a variety of perspectives. Some of us may view the Holy Spirit as somewhat mysterious or distant, shaped perhaps by cultural ideas that cast Him as an elusive “force.” Others might feel the Holy Spirit has been underemphasized compared to the Father and the Son. Then, there are those of us who may resist, possibly due to negative experiences or simply a fear of the unknown. And finally, some of us have fully embraced the Holy Spirit and experienced His life-changing presence firsthand.
The Holy Spirit is Misunderstood:
Think about how much of our perception of the Holy Spirit can be shaped by movies or cultural references. In some portrayals, the Holy Spirit seems like an abstract force, like something from a science fiction film. Perhaps ethereal, floating, a kind of power without personality. This idea can stem from traditional names, like “Holy Ghost,” which, though historically rich, can make Him seem more like a presence or apparition rather than a Person. When we misunderstand the Holy Spirit in this way, we lose sight of the fact that He is, in reality, deeply personal and active. He’s not an “it” or a vague influence in our lives. He is God, an equal and present part of the Trinity, and His role in our lives is both intimate and powerful.
The Holy Spirit is Ignored:
In some church circles, the Holy Spirit can often take a back seat. Emphasis might lean heavily on God the Father, the Creator, or Jesus the Son, our Savior, which can unintentionally leave the Holy Spirit as the “quiet” member of the Trinity. Some might say He is the most “ignored” person of the Godhead. But the truth is, just as the Father and the Son are vital to our faith, so is the Spirit. Jesus Himself sent the Holy Spirit to be with us, our Helper who leads, comforts, and transforms us. Ignoring the Holy Spirit is missing out on the fullness of God’s presence and power in our lives today. In our journey as believers, recognizing the Holy Spirit’s role is key to living in God’s complete truth and purpose.
The Holy Spirit is Resisted:
Maybe the Holy Spirit has felt like a bit of a mystery to you, or perhaps you’ve heard of wild experiences attributed to Him that seem intense or “out there.” For some, this can create a sense of hesitation, perhaps even resistance. Some may have witnessed expressions of the Spirit’s work that seemed chaotic or uncomfortable and wonder, “Is that really of God?” Or maybe it’s a simple lack of personal experience that leaves us with a sense of doubt or even fear about the unknown. But the truth is, the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives is not about unpredictable emotion; rather, it aligns with Scripture, bringing peace, order, and clarity. Resistance often stems from fear or uncertainty.
The Holy Spirit is Embraced:
Then there are those who have embraced the Holy Spirit in His fullness. For them, life with the Spirit is vibrant, marked by a depth of joy, love, and a meaningful sense of purpose. To embrace the Holy Spirit is to experience life as God intended, drawing strength from Him and allowing the Spirit to shape us. When we open ourselves fully to the Holy Spirit, He reveals God’s heart, equips us to live with courage, and enables us to love others with a God-inspired compassion. Our hope is that each person here will grow to embrace the Holy Spirit in this way.
But, wherever you find yourself, I encourage you to approach this series with an open heart, seeking to understand the Holy Spirit not as an “it” or a vague concept but as a person – the third Person of the Trinity, fully God and integral to our lives.
A Divine Helper and Friend
15 “If you love me, keep my commands. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19 Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. 20 On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. 21 Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”
22 Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?”
23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
28 “You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe. 30 I will not say much more to you, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold over me, 31 but he comes so that the world may learn that I love the Father and do exactly what my Father has commanded me.
“Come now; let us leave. John 14
Jesus introduces the Holy Spirit in John 14, calling Him our “Helper.” Here, He promises His disciples that He will send “another Helper” to be with us forever, the “Spirit of truth” who will dwell within us. Jesus makes it clear that the Spirit is not an impersonal power or force but a close companion, sent by the Father to guide us into all truth, to comfort, teach, and remind us of everything Jesus has spoken.
The Greek term Jesus uses is Paracletos, a word rich with meaning. It’s often translated as Advocate, Counselor, or Comforter. Each translation offers a glimpse into the nature of the Spirit. He is our advocate, standing by us in moments of need; our counselor, guiding us through decisions with wisdom; and our comforter, bringing peace even in the most turbulent times.
Not an Optional Extra, but Essential to Our Faith
John 14 teaches us that the Holy Spirit isn’t an optional add-on to our faith. His work is essential. Through Him, we experience God’s peace, gain understanding, and receive the strength to walk in obedience.
The Spirit Reconciles Us to the Father:
Jesus makes it clear that the Spirit brings us into the family of God. The Spirit is the very presence of God with us, not just for a season but forever, ensuring we are not left as orphans. In a world where many feel disconnected or isolated, the Holy Spirit bridges that gap, uniting us with the Father and the Son. Through the Spirit, we have a direct connection to God’s heart, His love, and His guidance. He brings us into a relationship with God that would be impossible otherwise.
The Spirit Shows us Truth:
In this world of confusion, in a society of relative truth, the Spirit will lead you to truth. The Spirit is our compass and gives us a deep knowing, a conviction of what is true, right, and trustworthy. He helps us discern God’s will in a way that brings clarity, especially when we’re struggling with doubts or feel bombarded by conflicting voices. If you find yourself wrestling with belief, trust, or doubt, the Spirit will lead you, helping you experience and trust in God’s truth.
The Spirit Teaches Us All Things:
The Holy Spirit is also our teacher, providing wisdom and insight beyond what we can muster on our own. When we need to make wise decisions for ourselves, our families, or in our work, the Spirit is our guide, giving us knowledge and discernment. The Spirit’s guidance is an inner wisdom that applies God’s truth specifically to our lives. In those moments where we don’t know which path to take, the Spirit is there to offer clarity and to help us see from God’s perspective.
Helps Us Remember God’s Word:
Obedience to God is central to a life of faith, and yet it’s a challenge we all face. Maybe you’re struggling with temptations, letting certain habits take priority, or seeing church as just another activity. The Spirit, though, draws us into a life that reflects Jesus. He gives us the desire and strength to obey God’s commandments. The Holy Spirit reminds us of the life we’re called to live and helps us prioritize what truly matters. This journey toward obedience is one of the most visible signs of a life connected to the Father, Son, and Spirit.
Brings Us Peace:
If you’re feeling weighed down by worries about the future, fear of the unknown, or even anxiety about life after death, the Holy Spirit offers peace that transcends understanding. His presence is like a steady anchor in the storms of life. When sleepless nights come, when panic seems unavoidable, or when fear overpowers us, the Holy Spirit’s peace quiets our hearts. This peace is a confidence that God is with us and that He holds our future securely.
As we open this series, let’s prepare our hearts for a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, inviting Him to be our teacher, our friend, and our guide. In the coming weeks, we’ll explore more about the Spirit’s role, the gifts He gives, and what it means to be “baptized in the Spirit.”
So, let’s begin this journey together, inviting the Holy Spirit to work within us, teaching us to know God more intimately and to reflect His love more fully in our world.
