STUDIES ON

THE HOLY SPIRIT

A Study Outline by Ven Dr I. U. Ibeme http://priscaquila.t35.com ; or http://www.scribd.com/ifeogo ;

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PriscAquila Christian Resource Centre

 

CONTENTS:

THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE BELIEVER

1. THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

2. THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM I

3. THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM II

4. THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM III

5. THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM IV

THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

6. THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS I

7. SPIRITUAL GIFTS DEFINED

8. THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS II

9. THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS III

10. THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS IV

11. THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT I

12. THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT EXPLAINED AND TABULATED

13. THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT II

14. REVIEW OF STUDIES 01 TO 13

 

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE BELIEVER

TOPIC:      THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

SERIES:    01

 

INTRODUCTION:

The Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). He is the third Person of the Godhead, the blessed Trinity. The three dimensions of the Ministry of the Godhead are essential for the complete salvation of the Disciple. For the Disciple in this period of the Church age, the Holy Spirit’s work is of utmost importance.

 

1.      In what ways do the Three Persons of the One Godhead work together to accomplish or salvation?

          a)      1 Pet. 1:2__________________________________________

          b)      2 Cor. 13:14________________________________________

          c)      1 Cor. 12:4-6________________________________________

          d)      John 15:26_________________________________________

          e)      Matt. 28:19________________________________________

 

2.      What qualities in the Scripture show that the Holy Spirit is a Person?

          a)      Acts 28:25________________________________________

          b)      John 14:26 _______________________________________

          c)      Gen. 6:3__________________________________________

          d)      Acts 9:31__________________________________________

          e)      Rom. 8:26_________________________________________

          f)       Eph. 4:30__________________________________________

          g)      Acts 7:51__________________________________________

h)      Rom. 8:14_________________________________________

I)       Rom 8:16/Heb. 10:15________________________________

j)        John. 16:13________________________________________

k)      Rev. 2:7, 11,29_____________________________________

l)        Gen. 1:2.__________________________________________

 

3.      How do we know that he Holy Spirit is God?

          a)      Acts 5:3-4_______________________________________

          b)      Matt. 2819/2 Cor. 13:14______________________________

          c)      Heb. 9:14.________________________________________

          d)      Lk. 1:35/Rom 15:19 __________________________________

          e)      2 Cor. 2:10-11_______________________________________

          f)       Ps. 139:7.__________________________________________

          g)      Gen. 1:2/Job 33:4 ___________________________________

          h)      1 Cor. 12:6,11_______________________________________

          i)        Gen. 6:3. __________________________________________

          j)        Matt. 10:20_________________________________________

          k)      Isa. 61:1___________________________________________

          l)        Rom. 8:9_________________________________________

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE BELIEVER

TOPIC:      THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM I

SERIES:    02

 

INTRODUCTION:

          From the Old Testament (O.T.) times before the Pentecost, the Holy Spirit has always come on certain servants of God to fill them for certain duration of time. This was to enable them accomplish certain Ministry or have some experiences. This fullness was from outside the recipients and was not preceded by the indwelling of the Spirit through Spirit Baptism.

          Since the day of Pentecost however, the Holy Spirit has been poured out on all God’s people to indwell them permanently. This is called the Baptism with the Holy Spirit. These N.T. Saints are also filled with the Holy Spirit from time to time (or even the more led all the time by the Spirit) to enable them accomplish certain ministries or have certain experiences. Obviously, this New Testament (N.T.) fullness operates from within the believer (John 7:38-39; 4:14).

 

1.      What experiences did the O.T. saints have when they were filled with the Holy Spirit?

          a). 2Sam. 23:2/Lk. 1:41, 42, 67. _____________________________

          b). Ezk. 11:5/2Chron. 15:1-2. _______________________________

          c). 1Sam.1: 15. __________________________________________

          d). 1Sam. 10:6, 10/19:23,24. ________________________________

          e). Exd. 35:30, 31. ________________________________________

          f). Lk. 4:1, 2, 14. _________________________________________

 

2.      What experiences could we N.T. saints expect when we are filled with the Holy Spirit?

          a). Eph. 5:18. ___________________________________________

          b). Acts 13:32/1Pet. 1:8. __________________________________

          c). Rom. 8:15/Gal. 4:6. ____________________________________

          d). Rom. 8:26. ___________________________________________

          e). Acts 4:8, 31. _________________________________________

          f). Acts 7:55. ___________________________________________

          g). Acts 11:24. _________________________________________

          h). Acts 2:4, 11/10:44-46/19:6. _____________________________

 

3.      Since the fullness of the Holy Spirit is common to the O.T. and N.T. Saints: in what special way then did God promise to give the Holy Spirit to the N.T. Saints?

          a). Joel 2:28. ____________________________________________

          b). Ezk. 36:25-27. _______________________________________

          c). Jer. 31:31-34. _________________________________________

          d). Lk. 3:16. ____________________________________________

          e). John 14: 16-18. ______________________________________

          f). Lk. 24:29/Acts 1:4-5. ____________________________________

 

4.      From when and how was this promised special work of the Holy Spirit fulfilled?

          a). Acts 2:1-4,33. _________________________________________

          b). Acts 11:15-17. _______________________________________

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE BELIEVER

TOPIC:      THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM II

SERIES:    03

 

INTRODUCTION:

          We have already seen that when the Spirit rested upon an OT saint or indwells/baptizes an NT saint, it is then possible for either saint to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Thus, the fullness of the Spirit operated from the outside (without the baptism) in the OT, but operates from the inside (i.e. from the indwelling by baptism) in the NT (see series 013).

SO THEN, ONE CAN BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT WITHOUT BEING BAPTISED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If not so, the OT saints could not have worked with the Holy Spirit.

          We also saw that God had planned and accomplished a special working relationship between the Holy Spirit and every New Testament believer. The Prophets and Christ described this as the out-pouring (Joel 2:28), the putting-in (Ezk. 36:27), the baptism (Lk. 3:16), the indwelling/abiding (Jn.14: 16-17), and the Father’s promise (Acts 1:4-5). In the NT Church however, following the language of John the Baptist (Jn. 1:33), this special New Testament work of the Holy Spirit is called the “Baptism with the Holy Spirit into Christ”  (I Cor. 12:13) or simply “Spirit Baptism”.

          This New Testament Baptism was fulfilled from the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:33), but note that this was at the same time accompanied with the fullness also (Acts 2:3-4), which has always been possible from Old Testament times.

 

1.      What benefits does this “promised baptismal indwelling” of the Holy Spirit afford those who believe in Christ?

Rom 8:9____________________________________________

1Cor. 12:13_________________________________________

Eph. 1:13-14________________________________________

1Cor. 3:6-9/6:19_____________________________________

 Acts 15:8-9 _________________________________________

Rom. 8:11 __________________________________________

Luke 24:49/Acts 1:8 __________________________________

John 3:3-8/Tit 3:5 ____________________________________

2Thes. 2:13 / I Pet 1:2________________________________

 

2.      Apart from being called the “promise” that endues with heavenly power (Lk. 24:49), the “promise” and the “gift” (Acts 2:38-39), what other symbolic names are given to the Holy Spirit in the Scriptures?

2 Cor. 1:21/I John 2:20, 27 _____________________________

Eph. 1:13/4:30_______________________________________

2 Cor. 1:22/Eph. 1:14_________________________________

John 4:14/7:37-39 I Cor. 12:13 _________________________

Etc _______________________________________________

 

3.      In your own words, how could you summarize your understanding of the meaning of “THE BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT” or “SPIRIT BAPTISM”, according to what you have learned from the Word of God?

          . ______________________________________________________

          . ______________________________________________________

         

4.      Since the beginning of the 20th century, some brethren especially in the Pentecostal Denominations have developed a doctrine on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, which to them is same as being filled with the Holy Spirit. They teach that this baptism or fullness:

(i) is a second work of grace or second blessing, which follows after new birth or conversion,

(ii) dips the Christian further from the body of Christ into the realm of the Holy Spirit’s power, and

(iii) must be accompanied with the initial evidence of speaking in tongues.

This new line of teaching meant to motivate towards spiritual experiences, seems to make the Spirit Baptism confusing and divisive rather than enlightening and unifying. In the light of the teachings of the Scripture, how is this type of doctrine: -

a). similar to your understanding? ___________________________

b). different from your understanding? ________________________

c). clear about Baptism and Fullness? ________________________

d). consistent with the Scripture? ____________________________

e). accurate and adequate? ________________________________

f).  helpful and safe? _____________________________________

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE BELIEVER

TOPIC:      THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM III

SERIES:    04

 

INTRODUCTION:

The Holy Spirit indwells us in order to regenerate us into Christ and adopt us as God’s children, seal and guarantee us unto eternal life, as well as anoint and empower us as servants of God. What a great privilege! This is why our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ said that the Holy Spirit is the COMFORTER (John 15:26) or PARACLET. This word means: (Counsellor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) according to The Amplified Bible.

 

1.      Do you have the Holy Spirit? When do you think He entered to dwell in you? ________________________________________________

 

2.      Under what conditions could one receive the indwelling or baptism of the Holy Spirit?

          (a)     Acts 2:38-39  _______________________________________

          (b)     Eph. 1:13   _________________________________________

          (c)     Acts 11:17 _________________________________________

          (d)     Gal. 3:2, 14 _________________________________________

 

3.      Have you taken steps to fulfil these most important conditions? How?

          _______________________________________________________

 

4.      Those who are filled with the Holy Spirit are also said to be led by the Spirit (Rom 8:14), or to be spiritually minded (Rom 8:5-6), or to walk in/live by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16, 25).

Are you filled with the Holy Spirit? If you think so, could you be described in the above terms? ______________________________

 

5.      By what means could the indwelling Holy Spirit begin to fill us?

          (a)     Eph. 5:18-19______________________________________

          (b)     Col. 3:16__________________________________________

          (c)     Acts 4:31/Col. 1:9-10__________________________________

          (d)     Acts 4:8____________________________________________

          (e)     Acts 6:3,9_________________________________________

 

6.      Have you taken advantage of any of these means in order to be full of the Holy Spirit continuously and increasingly? __________________

 

7.      From our studies so far, it is clear that the Scripture teaches that the Baptism of the Spirit is only once for all and same for all who believe (1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 4:5); but the Fullness of the Holy Spirit is continuously repeated and diversely experienced by different believers at different times (Eph. 5:18-19; Acts 4:8, 31). In short: “By the BAPTISM the Spirit INDWELLS us and BRINGS us INTO Christ, but through the FULLNESS the Spirit MOVES us and USES us for Christ”.

          What other comparisons could you make of Spirit Baptism and Spirit Fullness? _______________________________________________

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE BELIEVER

TOPIC:      THE FULLNESS AND THE BAPTISM IV

SERIES:    05

 

INTRODUCTION:

          In Study 03 we looked at some experiences, we expect when we are filed with the Holy Spirit. In Study 04, we saw the benefits we drive from the baptism with the Holy Spirit. In this study, we shall do a summary review by comparing and contrasting the meaning and effect of Spirit Baptism versus Spirit Fullness. It is hoped that such comparison would widen our understanding and enable us take fuller advantage of the grace of God and the Holy Sprit’s work.

BAPTISM  (I Cor. 12:13)   

FULLNESS (Eph. 5:18)

1. Become ONE WITH CHRIST (Rom 8:9) 

1. Become MORE LIKE CHRIST (Eph. 3:16-19)

2. JOINED IN UNION with Christ (Eph. 1:13-14)   

2. ENJOY COMMUNION in Christ  (Eph. 1:15-21).

3. Initiation INTO Christ (Gal. 3:27)

3. Invigoration IN Christ (Phil. 1:9-11)

4. Once for all at Conversion or Newbirth   Eph. 4:5)

4. Repeated on and on after conversion          (Acts 4:8,13)

5. Associated with Regeneration or Newbirth   (John 3:3-6)

5. Associated with Sanctification or New life  (Rom 8:12-14)

6. Commencement of Relationship with God (Acts 2:2-3)

6. Continuation of experience of God’s Power  (Acts 2:4)

7. New spiritual STATUS (Col. 1:13)

7.  Growing spiritual STATURE (Eph. 4:13)

8. Requires faith in Christ as Saviour (Gal. 3:2)

8. Requires surrender to the Spirit as Helper (Rom. 12:1)

9. Equal and same for all Believers at all times (I Cor. 12:13)     

9. Different and variable in person and situation (Acts 4:8; 7:55)

10. INDWELLED by the Spirit (Rom. 8:9; I Cor. 3:16)

10. PROPELLED by the Spirit (2 Pet. 1:21)           

11.    Sealed unto Eternal life (Eph. 4:30)

11. Controlled to lead the New life (Gal. 5:22ff).

12.    Cleansing from sin (Acts 15:8-9)

12. Strengthening above/against sin     (Col. 1:9-14)

 

DISCUSSION

1.        In what ways could this study on Baptism and Fullness of the Holy Spirit make you be a better Christian than ever before?

2.        How complementary are those two aspects of the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believing disciple?

3.        Are the Holy Spirit Baptism and Fullness true in your life?

4.        Now that you know that when you believed, you were baptised with the Spirit into Christ, how should you ensure that henceforth, you walk in the fullness of the Spirit?

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

TOPIC:      THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS I

SERIES:    06

 

INTRODUCTION:

In the Scripture, Spiritual Gifts are described with many Greek words.  For example in I Cor. 12 alone, the following words were used by St. Paul:

Verse 1 Pneumatika            =       Spirituals (i.e. supernatural abilities)

Verse 4 & 9 Charismata      =       Grace-gifts (given by the Spirit)

Verse 5 Diakoniai                =       Services (rendered to the Lord)

Verse 6 Energemata           =       Operations or Workings (activated by God)

Verse 7 Phanerosis             =       Manifestations (that show the Spirit)

          Rom 12:6 and Eph 4:7-8 describe the Gifts (Charisma) as “grace gift” (charis doma) to us in accordance with the Christian Faith. Jesus called them signs of our faith in Him (Mk 16:17).

          Of all these words CHARISMATA is most commonly used to refer to Spiritual Gifts. CHARISMA(TA) also means GRACE-GRATUITI(ES) or LOVE-BONUS(ES) or FREE-ENDOWMENT(S). (Literally CHARIS means GRACE, and CHARISMA means ENDOWMENT, BONUS or GRATUITY OF GRACE).

In summary Spiritual Gifts should be understood to mean: “DIVERSITIES OF SPECIAL GRACES DISTRIBUTED BY GOD TO EVERY BELIEVER, ENABLING EACH TO VARIOUSLY MANIFEST THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE SERVICE OF THE LORD, FOR THE EDIFICATION OF CHRIST’S BODY, THE CHURCH”.

 

1.      Read 1Cor. 12:4-9 and Eph. 4:11-12 and Rom. 12:3-6 and answer the following:

(i)      Who gives or distributes Spiritual Gifts and makes them work in believers? __________________________________________

          (ii)      Why are Spiritual Gifts given? __________________________

          (iii)     To whom are Spiritual Gifts given? ______________________

(iv)    Do the Gifts believers have depend on their Spiritual achievements and merits? ________________________________________

__________________________________________________

(v)     What other lessons do you learn about Spiritual Gifts from these verses? _______________________________________

 

2.      Name and list the Spiritual Gifts mentioned in the following portions of the Scripture:

          (i)      I Cor. 12:7-13 (Nine) _________________________________

          (ii)      I Cor. 12:28-31 (Nine) ________________________________

          (iii)     I Cor. 13:1-3 (Seven) _________________________________

          (iv)    Rom. 12:6-8 (Seven) _________________________________

          (v)     I Cor. 14:6,26 (Seven) ________________________________

          (vi)    Eph.  4:11 (Five) _____________________________________

          (vii)    Mark 16:17-18 (Four) _________________________________

__________________________________________________

 

3.      Realising now that in different portions of the Scripture some Gifts are called different names while some are omitted or included, how many Gifts then, on the whole, could you identify? ____________________

 

4.      Table of Spiritual Gifts in the New Testament (KJV). Use this table to cross-check your findings in questions 2 and 3 above. (See Study 07 for detailed definition of the Gifts).

S/N

ICor. 12:7-13

ICor. 12:28-31

ICor. 13:1-3

ICor. 14:6,  26

Rom. 12:6-8

Eph.  4:11

Mark 16:17-18

1

Word of Wisdom

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

Word of Knowledge

 

Understand all Knowledge

Speak by Knowledge

 

 

 

3

Faith

 

Have all Faith

 

 

 

 

4

Gifts of Healings

Gifts of Healings

 

 

 

 

Lay hands to recover the sick (Healing)

5

Working of Miracles

(Workers of) Miracles

 

 

 

 

 

6

Prophecy

Prophets

Prophecy

Speak by Prophesying

Prophecy, Prophesy

Prophets

 

7

Discerning of spirits

 

 

 

 

 

 

8

Kinds of Tongues

(Speak with) Diversities of Tongues

Speak with Tongues

Speaking with Tongues (Speak Mysteries to God v. 2), Have a Tongue

 

 

Speak with new Tongues

9

Interpretation of Tongues

Interpret

 

Have an Interpretation

 

 

 

10

 

Apostles

 

 

 

Apostles

 

11

 

Teachers

 

Speak by Doctrine, Have a Doctrine

Teacher, Teaching

Teachers

 

12

 

Helps

 

 

 

 

 

13

 

Governments

 

 

Ruler (Leadership)

 

 

14

 

 

Bestow all (Giving)

 

Giver

 

 

15

 

 

Give my body (Martyrdom)

 

 

 

 

16

 

 

Understand all Mysteries

Speak by  Revelation,  Have a Revelation

 

 

 

17

 

 

 

Have a Psalm

 

 

 

18

 

 

 

 

Ministry (Service), Ministering (Serving) Server 1Pet 4:11

 

 

19

 

 

 

 

Exhorter, Exhortation (Word of Exhortation Act 13:15; Heb 13:22)

 

 

20

 

 

 

 

Mercy shewer

 

 

21

 

 

 

 

 

Evangelists

 

22

 

 

 

 

 

Pastors

 

23

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cast out (Exorcize) devils

24

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not hurt by deadly things (Immunity)

25

Continency, Power over will (Celibacy) 1Co 7:5-7, 37

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTE: The most listed gift is Prophecy, followed by Tongues, then Teaching.

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

TOPIC: THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS DEFINED

SERIES: 07

 

INTRODUCTION

 

THE AIM HERE IS TO BE AS BIBLICAL AS POSSIBLE IN DEFINING AND UNDERSTANDING THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS.

 

ALL SPIRITUAL GIFTS ARE SPIRITUAL ABILITIES GRATUITOUSLY GIVEN BY THE HOLY SPIRIT TO MEMBERS OF CHRIST’S BODY (THE CHURCH), TO MANIFEST GOD’S GRACE IN VARIOUS SPECIAL FORMS FOR THE GOOD OF OTHERS AND THE GROWTH OF THE CHURCH. (See Rom 12:3-6; 1Cor 12:1-7; Eph 4:12-13; 1Pet 4:10).

 

Every Christian believer should constantly be conscious of and confident about the source, the power and the purpose of these abilities which have been variously given to them for life. The whole purpose of every spiritual gift is to empower the Church:

To understand God’s will and ways,

To please God through obedience and true worship,

To benefit and serve one another and

To make Christ known as His witnesses.

 

As believers are stirred up, called upon or led to exercise and attempt these gifts in the church, they should go ahead and do so through their church’s activities, sub-groups and ministries. Experience confirmed by witness of the church will help you discover your gifts.

 

 

DEFINITIONS

1. WISDOM

The gift of word of Wisdom (eloquence in biblical wisdom) is the special grace to discover and develop practical principles from God’s Word in order to give relevant counsel for tackling particular common or personal problems, in the way most beneficial to God’s people and most pleasing to God. (St Paul claimed to preach by this gift in 1Cor 2:4-7, 13-16). This is the gift of preaching wise counsels that convincingly apply God’s mind to real life situations as Christ promised in Lk 21:15. (Stephen preached by this gift in Act 6:8-10).

 

Spiritual Wisdom is about godly discretion to make the choice on WHAT IS RIGHT TO DO (in order to cooperate with God). The second half of most of St Paul’s epistles are wisdom discourses on Christian living (Eph 4:1-3; 5:1-5).

 

2. KNOWLEDGE

The gift of word of Knowledge (eloquence in biblical knowledge) is the special grace for rational study and scrutiny of the Scriptures for revelatory insight in order to clearly apprehend and comprehend the whole and true meaning of God’s Word and Christ’s Redemption, well enough to give informative discourse from the abundance of such spiritual comprehension. (St Paul claimed to preach by this gift in 1Cor 2:8-12; Eph 3:1-9). This is the gift of preaching knowledgeable discourses that extensively expound the eternal purpose of God as Christ promised in Lk 8:10. (Apollos, with HELP form Priscilla and Aquila, preached by this gift in Act 18:24-28).

 

Spiritual Knowledge is about godly comprehension on the meaning of WHAT THE TRUTH IS (about God’s power and purpose). The first half of most of St Paul’s epistles are knowledge discourses on the Person and purpose of Christ (Eph 1:17-23; 3:1-9).

 

What some call “Word of Knowledge” these days is “intuitive awareness” which properly belongs to the gifts of DISCERNMENT, REVELATION and PROPHECY.

 

3. FAITH

The gift of Faith is the special grace to gain certainty about God’s intensions for particular expectations of God’s people, and hold unshakably unto God with fervent prayer and extraordinary confidence till such unimaginable expectations, impossible tasks, difficult projects and programmes are accomplished; despite insurmountable hindrances. Mk 11:22-24; Heb 11:1, 13, 30-39.

 

4. HEALINGS

The gifts of Healings are the special graces to lay hands on (or speak to) people with varieties of sicknesses to make them recover without natural means, in a way that gives God the glory. Act 9:34; 28:8-9.

 

5. MIRACLES

The gift of working of Miracles is the special grace to operate in the power of God to make things happen contrary to normal processes of nature, for the good of God’s people and to the glory of God. Acts 8:39-40; 20:9-12.

 

6. PROPHECY

The gift of Prophecy is the special grace to prayerfully search so as to gain insight into the counsel and purpose of God concerning the past, present and future, and speak-forth (proclaim) or foretell (predict) in faithful words as moved by the Holy Spirit at the given time, what the whole Church or some members need to be aware of. John 4:16-19; Act 21:9; 1Pet 1:10-12; 2Pet 1:19-21.

 

Prophets have the gift of Revelation combined with the gift of word of Exhortation for effective delivery of their prophetic messages Act 15:32; 1Cor 14:3. Prophets are vast in Scriptures and prayerfully eager to discover God’s purpose Dan 9:1-3; 12:8-9.

 

Prophecy is not same as soothsaying, divination, augury or prognostication of vain secrets and every future event, Prophecy is rather, the timely proclamation of the counsel of God (what God intends to do and intends us to know and do) for the hour, which is according to His pleasure and predetermined purpose. Isa 47:12-14; Jer 23:16-18.

 

7. DISCERNMENT

The gift of Discerning of spirits is the special grace to clearly distinguish between attitudes, activities and events that are divine and true from those that are human, false and satanic, so that God’s people will not be deceived. Act 5:1-5; 8:18-23.

 

Today some refer to the gift of Discernment as “WORD OF KNOWLEDGE” though this is difficult to be maintained both grammatically and with the Scriptures: Job 15:2; 33:3; 34:35; 35:16; 38:2; 42:3; Prov 19:27; 22:17; 23:12; 1Cor 1:5; 2Cor 8:7.

 

 

8. TONGUES

The gift of speaking in diversities of Tongues is the special grace to speak mysteries, prayers and praises to God in languages strange to and unknown to the speaker for personal spiritual edification. Act 2:11; 10:46; 1Cor 14:2-4, 14-15.

 

9. INTERPRETATION

The gift of Interpretation of Tongues is the special grace to explain or translate what is spoken in Tongues strange to the interpreter for the general spiritual edification of the whole Church. 1Cor 14:13-14.

 

10. APOSTLE (MISSIONARY)

The gift of Apostle (not the Apostolic office but Missionary gift) is the special grace to work as Christ’s ambassadorial witness sent to the uttermost parts of the earth to bring the Gospel to and plant Churches amongst unchurched peoples. Mk 3:14-15; Lk 9:1-2; 10:1-12. (Note: APOSTOLOS=Apostle; APOSTELLO=sent on mission)

 

11. TEACHING

The gift of Teaching is the special grace to organise the whole counsel of God found in the Scripture, on issues concerning the doctrine of Christ and instruct the Church in a way they could understand, learn and practice. 2Tim  2:15; 3:16-17.

 

The Teacher of the Word, in addition to being apt to teach, needs both the incisive gifts of Wisdom and Knowledge to fully impact the doctrine of Christ.

 

12. HELPS (ASSISTANCE)

The gift of Helps is the special grace to offer various forms of assistance to members of the Church so as to potentiate their spiritual effectiveness in fulfilling their ministries. Act 18:2-3, 26; Rom 16:2; 2Tim 4:11; Phm 24.

 

13. LEADERSHIP (RULING)

The gift of Leadership is the special grace to diligently set goals in accordance with God’s will and purpose, for the various parts of the Church and mobilise God’s people in such a way that they willingly work together to accomplish those goals to God’s glory. Act 6:1-7; Tit 1:5.

 

14. GIVING

The gift of Giving is the special grace to willingly contribute and distribute one’s substance generously (even up to voluntary poverty) so as to meet the material needs of the Church and the needy. Act 4:36-37; 2Cor 8:1-5.

 

15. MARTYRDOM

The gift of Martyrdom is the special grace to boldly bear witness to Christ in defiance to severe persecution, even unto death, in such a way that the Gospel is preached to God’s glory. Act 7:54-60; 2Tim 4:6-8; 2Pet 1:14.

 

16. REVELATION (MYSTERIES)

The gift of Revelation is the special grace to gain direct insight into the mysteries of Christ or into the hidden realities concerning the past, present and future of the Church or some of her members so as to enable God’s people understand the existing state of affairs. Act 10:9-20; 16:9; 2Cor 12:1-4; Eph 3:3-8.

 

Today some refer to the gift of Revelation as “WORD OF KNOWLEDGE”, mistaking GINOSKO/GNOSIS=intelligent knowledge to be same as EIDO/OIDA=intuitive knowing.

 

17. PSALMS

The gift of Psalms is the special grace to arrange and sing inspired melodies and lyrics for edification and doxological purposes amongst God’s people. Eph 5:18-19; 2Sam 23:1-2.

 

18. SERVICE

The gift of Service is the special grace to work and labour to meet the various needs of the Church, so that the Church will work the works of God and accomplish desired goals. Act 6:1-4; 9:36-39.

 

19. EXHORTATION (PREACHING)

The gift of word of Exhortation is the special grace to expound God’s Word and Will in a way that stirs up and motivates God’s people to conviction, correction, consolation and commitment to seek to please God for their own good and God’s glory. Act 2:40; 11:23; 14:22; 1Thes 2:11.

 

The Exhorter (i.e. Preacher or Homilist) as with the Teacher also needs both the incisive gifts of Wisdom and Knowledge to stir God’s people aright. Mere motivational oratory may exhort unto vanity rather than sanctity.

 

20. MERCY (BENEVOLENCE)

The gift of showing Mercy is the special grace to be greatly moved by compassionate concern for the miserable and work charitably to alleviate their distress and bring comfort. Act 9:36, 39;

 

21. EVANGELIST

The gift of Evangelist is the special grace to preach the Gospel message with convincing power to unbelievers in such a way that they believe and become followers of Christ. Act 8:5, 12, 35, 40; 21:8.

 

22. PASTOR

The gift of Pastor is the special grace to shepherd and nourish the flock of Christ (the Church), spiritually and emotionally, so that they may grow safe and sound unto maturity and unity of faith in Christ. John 21:15-17; Act 20:27-28.

 

23. EXORCISM

The gift of Exorcism is the special grace to cast out evil spirits by the power of the spoken Word of God, so as to deliver people and things from demonic influences. Acts 16:18.

 

24. IMMUNITY

The gift of immunity is the special grace to be unhurt by deadly or injurious things in the course of serving God, such that the Church is comforted and God is glorified. Act 28:3-6.

 

25. CELIBACY

The gift of Celibacy is the special grace to stay unmarried without losing continency over sexual passion, so that God’s work would be done maximally without the encumbrances of marriage and family. Matt 19:10-12.

 

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

TOPIC:      THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS II

SERIES:    08

 

INTRODUCTION:

          In the last study we were able to identify in the New Testament Scriptures NOT ONLY NINE Spiritual Gifts as commonly taught among some Pentecostals today but MORE THAN NINETEEN Spiritual Gifts. Below is an attempt to group these Gifts (24 of them) into five for better understanding (see I Cor 12:7-12:28-31; 14:6-26; Rom 12:6-8; Eph. 4:11; Mark 16:17-18) and I Cor 13:1-3).

1.      UTTERANCE OR INSPIRATIONAL GIFTS:

          a.  Tongues (of men and Angels),          b.  Psalms (Songs),

          c.  Interpretation (of Tongues),                d.  Wisdom (Counselling),

          e. Exhortation (Encouragement),           f.   Knowledge,

          g.  Evangelists (Preaching), and             h.  Prophecy.

          i.    Teaching

 

2.      DECIPHERING OR PERCEPTIONAL GIFTS:

          j.   Revelation/Mysteries,                       k. Discernment (of Spirits).

          Some Utterance Gifts like Interpretation and Prophecy also operate in combination with the Perceptional Gifts.

 

NOTE: When St. Paul talked about “Knowledge” in I Cor. 12:8, he used the Greek word “GINOSKO” which means OBJECTIVE LEARNING and has to do with studying and reasoning intellectually.  But for “Know” (“Understand” in KJV) in I Cor. 13:2 he used the Greek work “OIDA” which means SUBJECTIVE INTUITION and has to do with instinctively deciphering and fathoming hidden mysteries, meanings, matters, and minds.

Again WORD OF EXHORTATION in Acts 13:15 and Heb. 13:22 simply mean the same thing as Exhortation talk/word/discourse (i.e. Motivating speech). In the same way, WORD OF KNOWLEDGE and WORD OF WISDOM simply mean Knowledge talk/word/discourse (i.e. Informative speech) and Wisdom talk/word/discourse (i.e. Advisory speech) respectively.

Knowledge is about comprehension of WHAT THE TRUTH IS, while Wisdom is about discretion on WHAT IS RIGHT TO DO. Spiritual KNOWLEDGE is learned and taught from the Scripture and forms the basis for Spiritual WISDOM unto salvation and good works (2Tim 3:14-17).

 

Q       Considering above information, would you liken “word of Knowledge” to “Learning” and “Teaching”, or to “Revelation”, and “Discernment”? ______________________________________________________

 

3.      POWER OR DEMONSTRATIONAL GIFTS:

l.  Faith (that moves mountains)                 m.   Miracles,

n. Exorcism (Casting out/’Deliverance’),    o.  Healings, and

p.  Immunity (to serpents, scorpions and poisons).

 

4.      PASTORAL OR ORGANISATIONAL GIFTS:

q.  Apostle (Missionary/Messenger),      r.  Pastor (Shepherd),

s.   Leadership (Ruling/Administration), t.  Service (Ministry).

 

5.      SACRIFICIAL OR DEPRIVATIONAL GIFTS:

u.   Giving (even till poverty),                    v.  Helps,

w.  Martyrdom (even by burning),            x. Mercy, and

y.  Continence (or Celibacy) see I Cor. 7:7.

 

NOTE:       This fifth group is the most costly to the gifted and least appreciated by the Church so they are not very popularly taught or sought after in the Church today.

         

Question:   What does the Church lose by being selective in emphasis on Spiritual Gifts? ______________________________________

 

DISCUSSIONS:

1.      Despite this abundant number of charismatic Gifts why is it that only the spectacular few like: Tongues, Prophecy, Miracles, Healings, Exorcism (Deliverance) and Revelation/Mysteries (mistakenly called Word of Knowledge) are the ones popularly sought and taught nowadays?

 

2.      Today some of the Gifts are not regarded as supernatural and fantastic enough to be called Spiritual Gifts. State the reason why, with examples: __________________________________________

 

3.      Which Spiritual Gifts are at work in our Church?

          _______________________________________________________

4.      Why are many of the Gifts absent in the Churches today? (1Thes. 5:19-21, Eph. 4:30-32)____________________________________

          _______________________________________________________

 

CONCLUSION.

Apart from Spiritual Gifts mentioned in the Scripture, there are acquired SKILLS (e.g. Education, Technical skills, Music instrumentation) and innate TALENTS (e.g. intelligence, eloquence, artistry, hospitality, stamina), which are needed in the Church today.

 

When a believer, filled with the Holy Spirit uses these skills and talents in accordance with God’s will to edify the Church, such skills and talents serve similar purpose as the Spiritual Gifts?  (Exd. 35:29-35; Judges 14:6; I Chron. 15:22; Acts 26:24-25; Matt. 13:52).

BACK TO TOP


STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

TOPIC:      THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS III

SERIES:    09

 

INTRODUCTION:       

          Christians are SAVED TO SERVE (2 Cor. 5:18-19). Having been made a living part of Christ’s Body, every truly regenerate member of the Church should be committed to one form of special work or service (Ministry) within the Body of Christ for the furtherance of God’s Kingdom.

          Since EVERY believer has his/her function and gift (I Cor. 7:7; I Pet 4:10; I Cor. 12:12-14), Christians should be concerned more with discovering, and excelling in the Gifts they already have, rather than asking for other particular Gifts as is commonly taught today.

 

SEVEN STEPS TO DISCOVERING YOUR GIFTS

1.      EXAMINE yourself to be sure you have been regenerated into Christ’s body. This guarantees that you have a gift allocated to you in order to carry out your function as a part of Christ’s Body. 

 

Question:   Regeneration into Christ is the renewing work of the Holy Spirit (or the Spirit of Christ - Rom. 8:9-11), whereby the Holy Spirit quickens us to believe in Christ and seals us to become sons and co-heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:15-17). How could one obtain this regeneration into Christ? (Eph. 1:13; 14; Acts 2:36-39) ____________________________________

          _______________________________________________________

 

2.      STUDY to know, about the varieties of Spiritual Gifts, which one could use in the Church for profit unto edification.

 

Question    In what ways could knowledge of the varieties of Spiritual Gifts help one in discovering his/her Gift(s)?

                   __________________________________________________

 

3       PRAY and depend on God for guidance and leading of the Spirit. This leading depends on necessity, disposition, satisfaction, demand and one’s consecration.

 

Question I: How important is this step in discovering our Spiritual Gifts and Ministry? (Rom. 12:1-2)____________________________________

 

Question II: How did Paul and Barnabas benefit from this step?

          (Acts 13:1-2)_____________________________________________

 

4.      EXERCISE yourself and experiment to gain experience in God’s work by getting involved with: -

Church Programmes (e.g. Worship services, Bible studies, Prayer meetings. Evangelism/Witnessing outreaches, Fellowship meetings, Seminars, Retreats, Workshops, Conventions);

Church Ministries (E.g. Groups or Teams for Missions, Visitation, Counselling, Welfare, Charity, Deliverance, Healing, Intercession, Leadership, Discipleship); and

Church Roles (such as Fund Raising, Publicity, Publishing, Broadcasting, Research, Training, Debate, Apologetics, Projects, Planning and Organisation).

 

Question: What benefits and opportunities would Christians get by belonging to Churches that have and encourage these varieties of areas of functions? _______________________________________

          _______________________________________________________

 

5.                 OBSERVE your experiences and note areas of ministry, programmes or roles

(1)where your gifts, talents or skills are extra-ordinarily effective or appreciated/demanded and

(2)where your participation gives you peace, joy and fulfilment,

(3)as well as where you feel a sense of burden and zeal.

 

Question:   Could your natural abilities (Talents) and acquired skills be preparatory or enhancing to your Spiritual Gifts? Matt. 13:52 How? ______________________________________________________

          ______________________________________________________

 

6.      ANALYSE feedbacks from brethren about what gifts or ministry they commend you for, appreciate or respect in you, or demand your services, contribution, involvement or ministration for.

 

Question: How was this helpful to Timothy? (I Tim 4:14; 2 Tim. 4:5 and 1:6)

          ___________________________________________________

 

7.      SUBMIT readily to the Holy Spirit by operating fervently and diligently in whatever gift or gifts to which He has led you and convinced you to be your area of occupying and function, in accordance with God’s perfect will (Col.4: 17; Acts 20:24; 2 Tim 4:2-4).

 

Question    Why must we not be found wanting in the exercise of our Gifts? (Acts 20:28-29; Luke 19:12; 13, 16,17, 20-26). _________________

          _______________________________________________________   

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

TOPIC:      THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS IV

SERIES:    10

 

INTRODUCTION:       

While reminding Timothy about the discovery of the Spiritual Gifts in him, St. Paul also went ahead to urge Timothy (1) not to neglect his Spiritual Gift, (ii) but to fan it into flame (I Tim 4:14; 2 Tim. 1:6; and 4:5). Following the wisdom of the Apostle, let us discuss some steps to develop our gifts and maximize their use till we fulfill our ministry

 

1.      BE READY always to make your Gifts available for meeting the needs of the CHURCH  (not your own needs).

 

Q.a   How do Rom. 12:1-2 and I Cor. 12:7 relate to this?

          ____________________________________________________

 

Q.b   Does this readiness depend on convenience? (2 Tim 4:1-2)

          ____________________________________________________

 

2.      REMEMBER always that your Gifts and Ministry belong to God and that He has given them to you IN TRUST for the benefit of the Church and for His own glory.

 

Q.a   Is this true in the light of 1 Cor. 4:1 and 2 Cor. 4:1?

          _______________________________________________________

 

Q.b   What dangers are there if we lose sight of this truth? (2 Pet. 3:1-3)

          ______________________________________________________

 

3.      CHALLENGE and help others to labour more for the Lord by your use of your Gifts or ministry, rather than ridicule or discourage others who have different Gifts from yours

 

Q.a   How does Rom 11:13-14 explain this more? _________________

          ______________________________________________________

 

Q.b   Which is better to say, (1) “You can’t do what I do” and (ii) “You don’t want to do as I do” or  (iii) “You can do better than I do with the help of God”? _______________________________________________

          ______________________________________________________

 

4.      DO NOT DOMINATE others with your Gifts, rather EDIFY AND SERVE them.

 

Q.      Relate Rom 12:3-6a to this. Why is this step necessary? __________     

          _______________________________________________________

 

5.      GIVE PRIORITY attention with all diligence to your Gifts or Ministry to excel in exercising it, because the Church needs your Gifts in its best form.

 

Q       For what other reasons must we aim to excel in serving with our Gifts?

          (i)      I Cor. 4:2 __________________________________________

          (ii)      Rom. 14:12 ________________________________________

 

6.      COOPERATE   with others (not SEPARATE from them) by the use of your Gifts and Ministry in the Church.

 

Q.a   How is this shown in Gal. 2:7-10? ___________________________

          ______________________________________________________

 

Q.b   From I Cor. 3:3-9, how proper is it for us to criticize others, cause division, struggle for position and recognition, and break away from our Church because we are gifted, as is commonly done these days? ______________________________________________________

 

Q.c    How could we balance this step with the following scriptural injunctions to:

                   (i)      Fan our gift to flame (2 Tim 1:6)? __________________

Not neglect our Gift (1 Tim 4:14)? ___________________

Magnify our ministry (Rom 11:13-14? ________________

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

TOPIC:      THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT I

TEXT:        GALATIANS 5:16-18, 22-25

SERIES:    11

 

INTRODUCTION

          As we have seen, the Gifts of the Spirit are very important for building up the Church to spiritual maturity (Eph/ 4:11-13). However, there can be no spiritual maturity if the Church does not bear the fruit of the Spirit, of which LOVE is the most excellent and the greatest (Eph. 4:15-16; I Cor. 12:31; 13:1-3; 13:13)

Notice that St. Paul thought of the Gifts of the Spirit as Temporary Manifestations/Blossoms which are like the flowers of a fruit plant (I Cor. 12:7), and which may be barren (13:1-3) or fade (13:8-9). On the other hand, lively faith, hope and love are collectively called the Fruit of the Spirit, because they are Permanent Produce/Harvest that never fail and ever remain (I Cor. 13:18a and 13a; John 15:16).

          Flowers are admirable and attractive manifestations while Fruit is the ultimate harvest benefit from a tree (John 15:2; Lk. 13:6). The Fruit also gives a tree its real identity (Matt. 7:20) and survival.

          The Fruit of the Spirit is the quality of Character, which God harvests from us when we walk in, live by and are led by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16-18, 25). It is the Harvest Benefit we yield to God from the indwelling seed of the Spirit (Rom 6:22; 1John 3:9).

 

1.      What St. Paul described as the Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 refers what Christ called “much, more FRUIT that remain” (John 15:2, 5, 9, and 16; Matt 13:8, 23), which is also described in many other alternative ways in the Scripture.

          What do you understand by the following alternative descriptions of the Fruit of the Spirit which we should bear?

          a)      Divine nature (2Pet. 1:4-7)_____________________________

          b)      Harvest of righteousness (Jas 3:17-18)___________________

          c)      Qualification for Kingdom bliss (Matt. 5:2-12)_______________

          d)      Nature of Love (1Cor. 13:4-8)___________________________

          e)      Weapons of righteousness (2Cor. 6:3-7)__________________

f)       Worthy virtues of life (Eph. 4:1-2) ________________________

g)      Fruit of the light (Eph. 5:9) _______________________________

          h)      Clothes for the Holy (Col. 3:12-15) _______________________

 

2.      In the Scripture the word FRUIT is used to convey several meanings. What do you understand by the following meanings of fruits/fullness? 

          a)      Outcome/Result (Isa. 32:17)____________________________

          b)      Benefit/Profit (Luke 13:7)______________________________

          c)      HARVEST/Produce/Yield (Gen. 1:11; Jas 5:7; Matt. 21:34) ___

                   __________________________________________________

          d)      Evidence/Identity-mark (Matt. 12:33) _____________________

          e)      CHARACTER/Habit (Matt. 7:15-20; Col. 1:10)______________

                   __________________________________________________

         

THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS THE HARVEST OF DIVINE CHARACTER, WHICH WE YIELD TO GOD THROUGH LIVING BY THE SPIRIT.

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

TOPIC:      THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT EXPLAINED AND TABULATED

SERIES:    12

 EXPLANATION:

While Spiritual Gifts are various ABILITIES GIVEN to believers through the Holy Spirit, Spiritual Fruit (either as good-works or as spiritual-walk Eph 2:10) is that wholesome QUALITY PRODUCED by us through the Holy Spirit. Without quality (FRUIT), brash abilities (GIFTS) are nuisance and valueless (1Cor 13:1-3), but quality brings excellence to every ability (1Cor 12:31). Love must be the motive behind our desire for and exercise of Spiritual Gifts (1Cor 14:1).

Likened to flowers and foliages the Gifts are temporary, admirable and attractive manifestations (1Co 12:7) but may be barren (1Co 13:1-3), fade and vanish away (1Co 13:8), whereas the Fruit is the edible harvest benefit from a tree (Mat 21:18-19; Joh 15:2;  Luk 13:6). The Fruit also gives a tree its real identity (Mat 7:20) and ensures its enduring survival (1Co 13:8 a; 1Co 13:13 a).

In both Old and New Testaments, FRUIT is usually singular: it refers to the yield or harvest obtained from the vineyard, etc; output or profit of any endeavour; dividend or outcome of any involvement Ps 1:3; 92:12-14; 104:13; Mat 21:34; Mk 4:7-8, 20, 28-29; Rom 1:13; e.g.:

the produce of the ground (the wild, field, vineyard, or orchard); Gen 4:3; Exo 10:15; Lev 19:23-25; 25:19; 26:4;  Num 13:27; Deut 22:9; 26:2; Jas 5:7, 18; Neh 10:35-37;

the produce of animals (pastoral or wild) Deut 28:4, 11, 51; 30:9;

the offspring of the body (the loin or the womb) Gen 30:2; Deut 28:53; Ps 27:3;

the effect/impact of the spiritual (or even the carnal) mind (e.g. good-works of moral walk or missionary works) Pro 1:31; Pro 10:16; Pro 11:30; Rom 6:21; Eph 2:10;

1.      Walk-Fruit of the Holy Spirit (Life of sanctity and character which serves/sows the fruit of the divine nature to others) Gal 5:22-25; Eph 5:9; Heb 12:11; Jas 3:18.

2.      Work-Fruit of Labour in Christ (Labour of soul-winning and charitable deeds which sows/serves the fruit to others) Joh 4:36; Rom 1:13; Php 1:22.

the value of praise and thanksgiving Php 4:17; Heb 13:15.

In the Scriptures, FRUITFULNESS means productivity or prosperity of persons, ventures or the nation. Spiritual Fruitfulness/Productivity comes by diligent, continuous and abounding Spiritual Fertility/Effectiveness (2Pet 1:5, 8), through excellent-minded meditation on God's Word to exercise ourselves unto godliness (Jos 1:8; Psa 1:1-3; Jn 15:3-4; Php 4:8). The Fruit (i.e. Vineyard or Orchard Produce Lev 25:3; Deut 22:9; Mat 7:16-20) of the Spirit is that quality of Spiritual Character (Rom 8:14), Divine Nature (2Pet 1:4) or Christ's Stature (Eph 4:13) which God harvests from believers (Rom 7:4c) who walk in, live by and are led by the Spirit (Gal 5:16-18, Gal 5:25). (This Fruit is perceived as goodworks Col 1:10, holiness Rom 6:22, goodness Eph 5:9, and righteousness Php 1:11).

The Fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23) is the Vineyard Harvest Produce which believers yield to God (the True Vine Husbandman Jn 15:1-2) from the Good Seed of the indwelling Spirit, which God planted in them (1Pet 1:23; 1Jn 3:9). Believers owe God the True Vine Fruit (Jn 15:5-8) of the Spirit as God’s inheritance in the saints (Eph 1:18). God’s response to fruitlessness is destruction (Mat 21:18-19; Lk 3:9; Lk 13:6-9; Jn 15:1-8). The fruit produced verifies the tree bearing it (Mat 7:15-20; 12:33; Lk 6:43-45).

 

COMPONENTS OF THE SPIRITUAL FRUIT

As found in the KJV

Text

Gal 5:22-23

2Pet 1:4-8

Col 3:12-15

1Cor 13:4-8, 13

Eph 4:1-5

Title

Fruit of the Spirit

Divine Nature

Clothes of the Holy

Excellent Way of Charity

Worthy Walk

1

Love

Charity

Charity:

Bond of perfectness

Charity

Love

2

Joy

 

 

Rejoiceth not in iniquity,

Rejoiceth in the Truth

 

3

Peace

 

Peace

(Jas 3:17-18): Peaceable,

In Peace,

Make Peace

Peace:

Bond of unity

4

Longsuffering

Patience

Longsuffering:

Forbearing,

Forgiving

Suffereth long:

Beareth all things,

Endureth all things,

Never fails

Longsuffering:

Forbearing

 

5

Gentleness (Kindness)

Brotherly Kindness

Kindness

Kind

Gk=chrestotes: FONDNESS

6

Goodness

Virtue (Excellence)

 

Thinketh no evil

 

7

Faith

Faith

God-pleasing faith (Heb 10:22-23; 11:6)

Faith,

Believeth all things

Faith

NOT Mountain-moving faith (1Cor 13:2b)

8

Meekness (Gentleness)

 

Meekness (Gentleness)

Gk=praotes: MILDNESS

Meekness (Gentleness)

9

Temperance

(Self-control)

Temperance (Self-control)

 

Not easily provoked,

Not behave unseemly

 

10

 

Godliness

 

 

Eph 5:9-10:

(Ap)Prove what is acceptable unto the Lord

11

 

Knowledge,

Knowledge of our God

 

 

 

12

 

 

Humbleness

Envieth not,

Vaunteth not,

Not puffed up

 

13

 

 

Mercies

(Compassion)

 

 

14

 

 

 

Seeketh not her own (Unselfish)

 

15

 

 

 

Hope,

Hopeth all things

Hope

NOTE: As there are more than 9 Spiritual Gifts, so also are there more than 9 components of the Spiritual Fruit.

 

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

TOPIC:      THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT II

TEXT:        GALATIANS 5:16-18, 22-25

SERIES:    13

 

INTRODUCTION:

In the last study we understood the Fruit of the Spirit as the HARVEST OF DIVINE CHARACTER, which we yield to God through living by the Spirit. These virtues are severally found in the following passages of the Scripture Gal. 5:22-25; 2 Pet. 1:4-7; Jas/ 3:17-18; Matt. 5:2-12; I Cor. 13:4-8; 2 Cor. 6:3-7; Eph. 4:1-2; 5:9; and Col. 3:12-15 as we have already seen.

 

1.      From these passages, what are the virtues we produce through the Holy Spirit? Moreover, what do these mean practically?

(a)     Virtues for relating to self:

          i)        Joy: _______________________________________________

          ii)       Patience: __________________________________________

          iii)      Temperance: _______________________________________

(b)     Virtues for relating to others:

          i)        Love: ____________________________________________

          ii)       Peace:____________________________________________

          iii)      Kindness: __________________________________________

          iv)      Goodness:__________________________________________

          v)      Faithfulness: ________________________________________

          vi)      Gentleness: ________________________________________

          vii)     Humility: ___________________________________________

          Viii)   Impartiality: _________________________________________

C)      Virtues for relating to God:

          i)        Love: _____________________________________________

          ii)       Faithfulness: ________________________________________

          iii)      Humility: ___________________________________________

          iv)      Purity: _____________________________________________

 v)     Patience:  __________________________________________

 

2.      Explain the following MEANS (or ways) through which we LIVE BY the Spirit in order to bear Fruit of the Spirit.

          a)      John 12:24/Col. 3:3-8. Death/Mortification:_________________

          b)      John 15:4. Abiding: __________________________________

          c)      John 15:2, Pruning: __________________________________

          d)      Matt. 13:8. God soil: __________________________________

          e)      Exd. 1:7.  Fertility: ___________________________________

f)       Rom. 15:13. Spirit-fullness: ____________________________

g)      Rom. 8:13,14. Spirit leading: ___________________________

 i)       Gal 5:16,18. Walking as led: ___________________________

j)        Gal 5:25. Living/Walking: _____________________________

k)      Eph 2:10. Working/Walking: ___________________________

 

3.      What do quenching and grieving the Spirit means and lead to?

          a)      Eph. 4:30-32 ________________________________________

b)                1Thes. 5:19-20 ______________________________________

c)                John 15:5-6 ________________________________________

d)                Matt 13:19-22 ______________________________________

 

GOD HAS SOWN HIS SPIRIT AS SEED IN US, HE MUST FIND FRUIT FROM US, OR ELSE WE SHOULD BE CAST INTO THE FIRE!

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STUDIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

 

THEME:     THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE DISCIPLE

TOPIC:      REVIEW OF STUDIES 01 TO 13

SERIES:    14

 

REVIEW

Under our theme above, we have gone through eleven study outlines dealing with the workings of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Disciples as follows: -

The Person of the Holy Spirit

The Baptism with the Holy Spirit

The Fullness of the Holy Spirit

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit

The Fruit of the Holy Spirit

Living by the Holy Spirit  

    

     These studies were meant to enlighten you on the workings of the Holy Spirit so that you would:

(i)  Be assured of the transforming fellowship of the Holy Spirit as a believer (BAPTISM) 1 Cor. 12:13; Rom 6:5.

(ii) Experience the Spirit’s empowering influence (FULLNESS) Eph. 5:18.

(iii) Serve by the Spirit’s power to build up the Church (GIFTS) 1Cor. 12:4-7; Eph. 4:11-13.

(iv) Live according to the Sprit’s character (FRUIT) Gal. 5:16-18, 22-25.

 

     In this way, you would please God in every way as a true Disciple of Jesus Christ.

 

DISCUSSIONS:

1.  What have you learned about each of the above aspects of the workings of the Holy Spirit?

     a.      __________________________________________________

     b.      __________________________________________________

     c.       __________________________________________________

     d.      __________________________________________________

 

2.  What changes have come into your life as a Disciple of Christ through these studies?

a.      __________________________________________________

     b.      __________________________________________________

     c.       __________________________________________________

     d.      __________________________________________________

 

3.  What further benefits do you think or expect that these studies would bring to the Church?

     a.      __________________________________________________

     b.      __________________________________________________

     c.       __________________________________________________

 

4. What questions do you have on all the above studies on the Holy Spirit?

a.      __________________________________________________

     b.      __________________________________________________

     c.       __________________________________________________

     d.      __________________________________________________

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Last Updated August 21, 2009

By Venerable Dr I. U. Ibeme

Copyright  © PriscAquila Publishing, Maiduguri, Nigeria.

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