In the sermon "Have you received the Holy Spirit?" by James Smith, the main theological topic addressed is the evidences of the Holy Spirit's presence in a believer's life, emphasizing the transformative work of the Spirit in relation to one’s view of Christ and sin. Key points include how the Holy Spirit cultivates a deep reverence for Christ, leading to a humbling understanding of one’s own depravity, as well as a profound aversion to sin and a longing for holiness. Smith references Acts 19:2, asking whether one has received the Spirit, and Romans 8:9, underscoring the necessity of possessing the Spirit as essential for belonging to Christ. The practical significance of this sermon lies in its call for self-examination among believers, urging them to identify the Spirit's work in their lives through increased holiness, adherence to God's Word, and a genuine hatred for sin.
Key Quotes
“If we have received the Holy Spirit, the Lord Jesus stands high in our estimation, and our views of ourselves are very humbling.”
“The Holy Spirit always sets the whole soul against sin and longing for perfect holiness.”
“If we hate sin everywhere, all sin, and especially the sin that dwells in us, and if we love holiness... then there is no doubt that we have received the Holy Spirit.”
“If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.”
The Bible teaches that receiving the Holy Spirit results in a deep reverence for Christ and an abiding hatred for sin.
Receiving the Holy Spirit is pivotal in the life of a believer. Acts 19:2 raises the crucial question, 'Have you received the Holy Spirit?' When we do, our perception of Jesus Christ transforms; He becomes singularly glorious in our eyes, while we see our own depravity and weakness. The more profound the Spirit's work is in us, the deeper our appreciation for Christ's finished work becomes, leading us to wholly depend on Him. This reliance on Christ alone is a hallmark of having received the Holy Spirit.
Furthermore, another significant evidence of having received the Holy Spirit is a radical change in our attitude towards sin. The Holy Spirit instills in us a relentless hatred for all forms of sin, especially the sin that lies within us. Our past sinful inclinations are subjected to a deep loathing, fostering a desire for holiness that pervades our soul. We don't merely wish for holiness; we cry out for it, embodying the spirit of Romans 8:9, where it emphasizes that those without the Spirit of Christ do not belong to Him. Thus, desiring holiness and abjuring sin are clear indicators of the Holy Spirit's indwelling.
Additionally, the ruling authority in our lives shifts toward God's Word, which becomes our guiding principle. In all decisions, we seek to align with Scripture rather than our own inclinations or societal norms. We are prompted internally to submit to God's truth, thereby denying our own wills, akin to Christ's assertion of, 'Not my will, but yours be done.' This alignment with God's Word is another testimony of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Acts 19:2, Romans 8:9
We know we have received the Holy Spirit if we experience deep reverence for Christ and a strong aversion to sin.
Determining if we have received the Holy Spirit involves self-examination of our responses to Christ and sin. One of the clearest signs is our perspective on Jesus. If we view Him with awe and our hearts are deeply humbled, recognizing our depravity and dependence on His grace, it signifies the present working of the Holy Spirit within us. An authentic appreciation for Christ’s glory and a contrasting view of our unworthiness are evident marks of the Spirit's influence. This transformation leads us to place complete reliance on Christ, acknowledging that apart from Him, we can do nothing.
Another critical sign of having received the Holy Spirit is a profound loathing for personal sin. The Spirit cultivates a sincere and abiding hatred of all sin, particularly that which dwells within us. Previously loved sins become sources of grief, emphasizing a longing for holiness instead. We find ourselves constantly yearning for purity, praying for greater holiness, and striving to align our lives with the call to be holy as our God is holy.
Moreover, the Holy Spirit leads us to a submissive attitude towards God's Word. In moments of dilemmas or confusion, we turn to Scripture for guidance, seeking to follow Christ's commands above all else. Our daily choices reflect this submissiveness as we regularly deny our desires to fulfill God’s will instead. This habitual denial of self in favor of Christ's commands is a testimony to the Spirit’s active presence in our lives, confirming our belonging to Him as stated in Romans 8:9.
Romans 8:9, 1 Peter 1:15-16
Holiness is essential for Christians as it reflects God's character and is the calling of every believer.
Holiness is of paramount importance for Christians as it not only reflects God's own nature but is also the essential calling for all believers. The Holy Spirit works within us to develop a longing for holiness, aligning our desires with God's will, as noted in 1 Peter 1:15-16, where we are called to be holy in all our conduct. This call to holiness serves as both an obligation and a testament to the transformative power of God at work in our lives. As we embrace holiness, we become more conformed to the image of Christ, which pleases God and serves as a powerful witness to the world about His character.
Moreover, pursuing holiness is an expression of our relationship with God. When we genuinely strive for holiness, it signifies our deep love for Christ, compelling us to follow His example and commands. As we forsake sin, we demonstrate the evidence of the Holy Spirit's activity in our hearts. The struggles against sin may persist, but our desire for holiness becomes a driving force in our spiritual journey, leading us to confess and repent whenever we fall short.
Holiness also brings about fellowship with God; as we seek to live set apart from sin, we enjoy a closer relationship with our Creator. This sanctification process purifies us, enabling us to walk in a manner worthy of our calling. Our pursuit of holiness therefore becomes not just an individual endeavor but a corporate calling, building up the body of Christ as we collectively strive for purity and reflect God's glory in our lives.
1 Peter 1:15-16, Hebrews 12:14
Comments
Your comment has been submitted and is awaiting moderation. Once approved, it will appear on this page.
Be the first to comment!