THE DYNAMICS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Dynamics of the Holy Spirit

“And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing, mighty wind.… And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost …” (Acts 2:2–4).

I. The Holy Spirit Convicts

“And when He is come, he will reprove the world of sin …” (John 16:8).

A. The Holy Spirit convicts of sin and wrong doing. Many fail to respond to His reproof but continue to practice their sinful ways. Unless they repent, they are doomed to eternal death.

B. When the Holy Spirit reproves us for wrong words, thoughts, deeds, and actions, we must ask for His forgiveness and cleansing.

II. The Holy Spirit Converts

“Repent, and be baptized … in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins …” (Acts 2:38).

A. Repentance and faith bring forgiveness of sins. The Holy Spirit bears witness through the spirit of one who has become a member of the family of God.

B. Conversion brings new life in Christ. It gives a new faith, new hope, and new love, for “old things are passed away” (2 Cor. 5:17).

III. The Holy Spirit Cleanses

“… purifying their hearts by faith” (Acts 15:9).

A. Some Christians fail to make a total commitment to Christ. They are unwilling to give up certain things for Christ—habits, affections, or possessions.

B. We must surrender everything unreservedly to Christ. When we are willing to yield all to Him, the Holy Spirit is ready to cleanse and fill us with His love (1 John 1:7).“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”

IV. The Holy Spirit Comforts

“… he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever” (John 14:16).

A. There is little comfort in today’s world. War threats, separations, divorces, shortages, and inflation bring frustration and disappointment.

B. Christians are confronted with difficulties also, but they can possess the peace and comfort that only the presence of the Holy Spirit can bring.

V. The Holy Spirit Controls

“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13).

A. Many try to live their lives depending on their own strength. They fail because finite power is not sufficient for successful living.

B. We need the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit. God is omniscient and omnipotent. He gives those who are totally committed the power needed for service. He assures them of eternal life hereafter (Acts 1:8). Acts 1:8 “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.””