“The Person of the Holy Spirit”

“The Person of the Holy Spirit”

Series Title: Walking in the Spirit – Embracing the Holy Spirit’s Role in Our Lives

1. Historical Context and Background

Who Wrote It & When

Key verses for this session include John 14:16-17 and Genesis 1:2, primarily from John (written c. 85-90 AD) and Moses (Genesis, written c. 1450-1410 BC).

John’s Gospel was written during a time of growing persecution for Christians, and it emphasizes the deity of Christ and the comfort and guidance of the Holy Spirit after Jesus' departure.

Genesis was written during Israel's wilderness journey, setting the foundation for understanding God’s Spirit in the creation narrative.

Cultural Practices & Events

In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit came upon individuals temporarily (e.g., prophets, kings). In contrast, Jesus promised the permanent indwelling of the Spirit.

First-century believers were navigating a hostile Roman world and a Jewish community skeptical of Jesus as Messiah.

2. Passage Analysis

John 14:16-17 (ESV)

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”

Genesis 1:2 (ESV)

“The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”

Theological Themes

Personhood of the Spirit: Not a force or energy, but a person with intellect, will, and emotion.

Continuity in the Trinity: The Spirit is distinct yet fully God.

Promise of Presence: Jesus promises ongoing divine presence after His ascension.

Liturgical/Practical Context

These verses are often read during Pentecost, Trinitarian sermons, or baptismal teachings to emphasize God’s abiding presence.

3. Text and Analysis (Verse by Verse)

John 14:16

"I will ask the Father..." 📝 Commentary: Jesus intercedes for us, showing unity within the Trinity. The Spirit is a divine gift—not earned. 📖 Greek Term: Paraklētos – “Helper,” “Advocate,” or “Comforter.” 📚 Reference: Romans 8:26-27 📘 Today’s Application: We’re never alone. The Spirit is God’s answer to our need for guidance and strength.

John 14:17

"Spirit of truth… whom the world cannot receive..." 📝 Commentary: The Spirit reveals truth the world resists. Intimacy with God allows recognition of His voice. 📖 Greek Term: Alētheias – “truth,” indicating divine authenticity. 📚 Reference: 1 Corinthians 2:14 📘 Application: Stay in the Word to recognize the Spirit’s truth over culture’s lies.

Genesis 1:2

"...the Spirit of God was hovering..." 📝 Commentary: The Spirit brings order from chaos—from the beginning! 📖 Hebrew Term: Ruach – “breath,” “wind,” “Spirit.” 📚 Reference: Psalm 104:30 📘 Application: Invite the Spirit to bring life into your "formless" areas—relationships, emotions, calling.

4. Preaching and Teaching Outline

Sermon Title: The Holy Spirit: God With Us

1. The Spirit Is a Person

📖 John 14:16-17 🧠 Analogy: Like a GPS, the Spirit leads—but unlike tech, He’s relational. ✅ Application: Talk to the Spirit like a person this week—invite Him in.

2. The Spirit Has Always Been Present

📖 Genesis 1:2 🌊 Illustration: The Spirit hovered like a mother bird over creation—ready to bring life. ✅ Application: God is working in your chaos, even if you don’t see Him yet.

3. The Spirit is Truth in a Deceptive World

📖 John 16:13 🔦 Illustration: Like a flashlight in the dark, the Spirit exposes what is real. ✅ Application: Trust His leading when culture confuses.

4. The Spirit Is a Permanent Companion

📖 Romans 8:9 👣 Story: The Spirit doesn’t just visit—He moves in. ✅ Application: Walk through your day acknowledging His presence—He’s already there.

5. Reference Scriptures

Romans 8:26 – The Spirit intercedes when we don’t know how to pray.

1 Corinthians 2:10-12 – The Spirit reveals God’s deep truths.

2 Corinthians 13:14 – Fellowship with the Holy Spirit.

Acts 2:1-4 – The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

Ezekiel 36:27 – “I will put my Spirit within you…”

6. Summary

In this opening lesson, we explored the foundational truth that the Holy Spirit is not an “it” but a divine person—our eternal helper, guide, and companion. From creation to Christ’s promise, the Spirit has always been active. As believers, we’re invited to a living relationship with Him.

Reflection Questions

Do I relate to the Holy Spirit as a person or an abstract force?

What areas of my life feel “formless and void” right now?

How can I become more aware of the Spirit’s presence this week?