29th Mar 09 - Fellowship with the Holy Spirit

Speaker: Pastor Mike Wilhelm

Topic : Developing a greater fellowship with the Holy Spirit

Text : John 14: 15 -21

Many are not conversant with the person and ministry of the Holy Spirit as they are with Jesus Christ or God the Father. Jesus, Himself, foretold of the coming of the Holy Spirit to His disciples (John 14:15-21) He said he would not leave them as orphans or helpless but would send the Holy Spirit to them.  Therefore, as we cultivate a greater fellowship with the Holy Spirit we won’t feel vulnerable or without help. Also the Benediction we frequently say at the end of our meetings reveals to us the importance of communion with the Holy Spirit.

Who is the Holy Spirit?

1)     The Holy Spirit is God

·     We are instructed to baptise in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). This shows He is co-equal with the Father and the Son.

·     ‘Holy Spirit’ and ‘God’ was used interchangeably (Acts 5: 1-4)

·     He has all the attributes of God; He is omnipresent and not limited by place (Psalms 139). He is omnipotent and eternal (Hebrews 9:14)

2)     The Holy Spirit has a personality

·     Understands our feelings

·     Speaks (Revelation 2:7)

·     Helps in our weakness and prays for us (Romans 8:26)

·     Teaches us (John 14:26)

·     Testifies of the Lord (John 15:26)

·     Guides us (John 16: 13)

·     Commands (Acts 16:6,7)

·     Calls people to God’s work (Acts 13:2)

·     Comforts believer’s (Acts 9:31)

Names & Symbols of the Holy Spirit

·     The Holy Spirit; brings the work of holiness in our lives. He convicts men of sin (John 16:8)

·     The Spirit of God

·     The Spirit of Christ

·     The Comforter (John 14:16)

·     Fire

·     Wind; the breathe of God

·     Oil; to set aside people and places for God.

·     Rain; for life to bear fruit

·     Dove; an emblem of peace (John 1:32)

·     Wine; gladness and joy to our heart

·     Seal; of ownership

·     Guarantee