A Summary of the Holy Spirit Then and Now Pt 2

Great Assistance from Mark Copelandrsquos Executable Outline ldquoThe Holy Spirit of god Summary The Holy Spirit Then and Now

Introduction

bullLast week we took a summary look at what the temporary work of the Holy Spirit was

bullThis week we will take a look at the continuous work of the Spirit in our lives today until Christ takes us home

The Promise of the Holy Spirit

bullAs promised by Jesus (Jn 737-39)To all who believe in HimA special dispensation of the Spirit unlike

any before therefore it was to be different from The miraculous workings of the Spirit The normal influences through the Word

The Promise of the Holy Spiritbull As promised by Peter (Acts 238-39 532)

To all those who repent and are baptized To all those who obey God This promise of the Spirit relates to his indwelling and the

accompanying blessings ldquoAnd ye shall receive - The gift of the Holy Spirit here does not mean

his extraordinary gifts or the power of working miracles but it simply means you shall partake of the influences of the Holy Spirit as far as they may be adapted to your case - as far as may be needful for your comfort peace and sanctification There is no evidence that they were all endowed with the power of working miracles nor does the connection of the passage require us thus to understand ithellipThere is peace calmness joy there is evidence of piety and that evidence is the product of the influences of the Spirit The fruit of the Spirit is love joy peace etc Galatians 522 Galatians 524 (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquo532 Given to them that obey Him The Holy Spirit is given only to those who have submitted to the Lord (Ac 228 Joh 73839) It dwells only in the obedient heartrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the SpiritbullTo convict the world through the gospel

Of sin righteousness and judgment (Jn 167-11)

Done through the gospel The instrument designed to produce faith

(Rom 1017 Col 15-6) ldquoAnd bringeth forth fruit - Wherever the pure Gospel

of Christ is preached it is the seed of the kingdom and must be fruitful in all those who receive it by faith in simplicity of heartrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoBringeth forth fruit It always bears fruit in holy lives wherever received (Peoplersquos New testament)

The Work of the Spirit Godrsquos power to save (Rom 116-17 Heb

412) ldquoAnd powerful - Mighty Its power is seen in

awakening the conscience alarming the fears laying bare the secret feelings of the heart and causing the sinner to tremble with the apprehension of the coming judgment All the great changes in the moral world for the better have been caused by the power of truthrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoquickmdashGreek living having living power as the rod of the mouth and the breath of the lips of the living GodhellippowerfulmdashGreek energetic not only living but energetically efficaciousrdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

The Work of the SpiritTo regenerate those who respond

Saving them through the washing of regeneration (baptism) (Tit 34-6 Jn 33-6) ldquoThe word in itself would naturally be understood as referring to baptism

(compare notes at Acts 2216) which was regarded as the emblem of washing away sins or of cleansing from them I say it was the emblem not the means of purifying the soul from sin If this be the allusion and it seems probable then the phrase washing of regeneration would mean that outward washing or baptism which is the emblem of regeneration and which is appointed as one of the ordinances connected with salvation see the notes at Mark 1616 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved (Barnesrsquo)

ldquoBy the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit Two elements enter into the saving these are referred to in John as the birth of water and of the Spirit (Joh 35) Gods spirit effects the renewal of the spirit of man by bringing him to faith and repentance through the preaching of the gospel thus the renewal of the Holy Spirit is begun and the gift of the Holy Spirit is promised as a sequence of baptism (Ro 61-8) shows that the sinner dies to sin is buried by baptism rises to a new life and is a new creature Washing to regeneration is literally bath of regeneration All commentators of reputation refer this to baptism such as Meyer Olshausen Lange Plumptree Schaff Canon Cook Wesley etc Regeneration is due to the Holy Spirit but baptism is an outward act that God requires to complete the fact The term regeneration only occurs here and Mt 1928rdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the Spirit Causing them to be reborn in conjunction

with the Word of God (1 Pet 122-23)To sanctify those who are saved

A process started when washed and justified (1 Cor 611) But ye are justified - Your sins are pardoned and you are

accepted as righteous and will be treated as such on account of the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ see the note at Romans 117 note at Romans 325-26 note at Romans 43 The apostle does not say that this was last in the order of time but simply says that this was done to them People are justified when they believe and when the work of sanctification commences in the soulrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoYe are justified - Εδικαιωθητε Ye have been brought into a state of favor with God your sins having been blotted out through Christ Jesus the Spirit of God witnessing the same to your conscience and carrying on by his energy the great work of regeneration in your heartsrdquo (Clarke)

The Work of the Spirit A process that continues with the aid of the

Word (Acts 2032) ldquoAnd to the word of his grace - That is to his gracious

word to his merciful promise Paul refers doubtless to the gospel including its promises of support its consoling truths and its directions to seek all needful help and comfort in Godrdquo (Barnesrdquo Notes)

ldquoAnd to the word of his grace The word will be a guide in all their difficulties and is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among the sanctified If it is followed they cannot strayrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

bull This work of the Spirit is age-lasting accomplished with the aid of the blessings involving the Spirit

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

Introduction

bullLast week we took a summary look at what the temporary work of the Holy Spirit was

bullThis week we will take a look at the continuous work of the Spirit in our lives today until Christ takes us home

The Promise of the Holy Spirit

bullAs promised by Jesus (Jn 737-39)To all who believe in HimA special dispensation of the Spirit unlike

any before therefore it was to be different from The miraculous workings of the Spirit The normal influences through the Word

The Promise of the Holy Spiritbull As promised by Peter (Acts 238-39 532)

To all those who repent and are baptized To all those who obey God This promise of the Spirit relates to his indwelling and the

accompanying blessings ldquoAnd ye shall receive - The gift of the Holy Spirit here does not mean

his extraordinary gifts or the power of working miracles but it simply means you shall partake of the influences of the Holy Spirit as far as they may be adapted to your case - as far as may be needful for your comfort peace and sanctification There is no evidence that they were all endowed with the power of working miracles nor does the connection of the passage require us thus to understand ithellipThere is peace calmness joy there is evidence of piety and that evidence is the product of the influences of the Spirit The fruit of the Spirit is love joy peace etc Galatians 522 Galatians 524 (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquo532 Given to them that obey Him The Holy Spirit is given only to those who have submitted to the Lord (Ac 228 Joh 73839) It dwells only in the obedient heartrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the SpiritbullTo convict the world through the gospel

Of sin righteousness and judgment (Jn 167-11)

Done through the gospel The instrument designed to produce faith

(Rom 1017 Col 15-6) ldquoAnd bringeth forth fruit - Wherever the pure Gospel

of Christ is preached it is the seed of the kingdom and must be fruitful in all those who receive it by faith in simplicity of heartrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoBringeth forth fruit It always bears fruit in holy lives wherever received (Peoplersquos New testament)

The Work of the Spirit Godrsquos power to save (Rom 116-17 Heb

412) ldquoAnd powerful - Mighty Its power is seen in

awakening the conscience alarming the fears laying bare the secret feelings of the heart and causing the sinner to tremble with the apprehension of the coming judgment All the great changes in the moral world for the better have been caused by the power of truthrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoquickmdashGreek living having living power as the rod of the mouth and the breath of the lips of the living GodhellippowerfulmdashGreek energetic not only living but energetically efficaciousrdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

The Work of the SpiritTo regenerate those who respond

Saving them through the washing of regeneration (baptism) (Tit 34-6 Jn 33-6) ldquoThe word in itself would naturally be understood as referring to baptism

(compare notes at Acts 2216) which was regarded as the emblem of washing away sins or of cleansing from them I say it was the emblem not the means of purifying the soul from sin If this be the allusion and it seems probable then the phrase washing of regeneration would mean that outward washing or baptism which is the emblem of regeneration and which is appointed as one of the ordinances connected with salvation see the notes at Mark 1616 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved (Barnesrsquo)

ldquoBy the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit Two elements enter into the saving these are referred to in John as the birth of water and of the Spirit (Joh 35) Gods spirit effects the renewal of the spirit of man by bringing him to faith and repentance through the preaching of the gospel thus the renewal of the Holy Spirit is begun and the gift of the Holy Spirit is promised as a sequence of baptism (Ro 61-8) shows that the sinner dies to sin is buried by baptism rises to a new life and is a new creature Washing to regeneration is literally bath of regeneration All commentators of reputation refer this to baptism such as Meyer Olshausen Lange Plumptree Schaff Canon Cook Wesley etc Regeneration is due to the Holy Spirit but baptism is an outward act that God requires to complete the fact The term regeneration only occurs here and Mt 1928rdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the Spirit Causing them to be reborn in conjunction

with the Word of God (1 Pet 122-23)To sanctify those who are saved

A process started when washed and justified (1 Cor 611) But ye are justified - Your sins are pardoned and you are

accepted as righteous and will be treated as such on account of the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ see the note at Romans 117 note at Romans 325-26 note at Romans 43 The apostle does not say that this was last in the order of time but simply says that this was done to them People are justified when they believe and when the work of sanctification commences in the soulrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoYe are justified - Εδικαιωθητε Ye have been brought into a state of favor with God your sins having been blotted out through Christ Jesus the Spirit of God witnessing the same to your conscience and carrying on by his energy the great work of regeneration in your heartsrdquo (Clarke)

The Work of the Spirit A process that continues with the aid of the

Word (Acts 2032) ldquoAnd to the word of his grace - That is to his gracious

word to his merciful promise Paul refers doubtless to the gospel including its promises of support its consoling truths and its directions to seek all needful help and comfort in Godrdquo (Barnesrdquo Notes)

ldquoAnd to the word of his grace The word will be a guide in all their difficulties and is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among the sanctified If it is followed they cannot strayrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

bull This work of the Spirit is age-lasting accomplished with the aid of the blessings involving the Spirit

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Promise of the Holy Spirit

bullAs promised by Jesus (Jn 737-39)To all who believe in HimA special dispensation of the Spirit unlike

any before therefore it was to be different from The miraculous workings of the Spirit The normal influences through the Word

The Promise of the Holy Spiritbull As promised by Peter (Acts 238-39 532)

To all those who repent and are baptized To all those who obey God This promise of the Spirit relates to his indwelling and the

accompanying blessings ldquoAnd ye shall receive - The gift of the Holy Spirit here does not mean

his extraordinary gifts or the power of working miracles but it simply means you shall partake of the influences of the Holy Spirit as far as they may be adapted to your case - as far as may be needful for your comfort peace and sanctification There is no evidence that they were all endowed with the power of working miracles nor does the connection of the passage require us thus to understand ithellipThere is peace calmness joy there is evidence of piety and that evidence is the product of the influences of the Spirit The fruit of the Spirit is love joy peace etc Galatians 522 Galatians 524 (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquo532 Given to them that obey Him The Holy Spirit is given only to those who have submitted to the Lord (Ac 228 Joh 73839) It dwells only in the obedient heartrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the SpiritbullTo convict the world through the gospel

Of sin righteousness and judgment (Jn 167-11)

Done through the gospel The instrument designed to produce faith

(Rom 1017 Col 15-6) ldquoAnd bringeth forth fruit - Wherever the pure Gospel

of Christ is preached it is the seed of the kingdom and must be fruitful in all those who receive it by faith in simplicity of heartrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoBringeth forth fruit It always bears fruit in holy lives wherever received (Peoplersquos New testament)

The Work of the Spirit Godrsquos power to save (Rom 116-17 Heb

412) ldquoAnd powerful - Mighty Its power is seen in

awakening the conscience alarming the fears laying bare the secret feelings of the heart and causing the sinner to tremble with the apprehension of the coming judgment All the great changes in the moral world for the better have been caused by the power of truthrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoquickmdashGreek living having living power as the rod of the mouth and the breath of the lips of the living GodhellippowerfulmdashGreek energetic not only living but energetically efficaciousrdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

The Work of the SpiritTo regenerate those who respond

Saving them through the washing of regeneration (baptism) (Tit 34-6 Jn 33-6) ldquoThe word in itself would naturally be understood as referring to baptism

(compare notes at Acts 2216) which was regarded as the emblem of washing away sins or of cleansing from them I say it was the emblem not the means of purifying the soul from sin If this be the allusion and it seems probable then the phrase washing of regeneration would mean that outward washing or baptism which is the emblem of regeneration and which is appointed as one of the ordinances connected with salvation see the notes at Mark 1616 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved (Barnesrsquo)

ldquoBy the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit Two elements enter into the saving these are referred to in John as the birth of water and of the Spirit (Joh 35) Gods spirit effects the renewal of the spirit of man by bringing him to faith and repentance through the preaching of the gospel thus the renewal of the Holy Spirit is begun and the gift of the Holy Spirit is promised as a sequence of baptism (Ro 61-8) shows that the sinner dies to sin is buried by baptism rises to a new life and is a new creature Washing to regeneration is literally bath of regeneration All commentators of reputation refer this to baptism such as Meyer Olshausen Lange Plumptree Schaff Canon Cook Wesley etc Regeneration is due to the Holy Spirit but baptism is an outward act that God requires to complete the fact The term regeneration only occurs here and Mt 1928rdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the Spirit Causing them to be reborn in conjunction

with the Word of God (1 Pet 122-23)To sanctify those who are saved

A process started when washed and justified (1 Cor 611) But ye are justified - Your sins are pardoned and you are

accepted as righteous and will be treated as such on account of the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ see the note at Romans 117 note at Romans 325-26 note at Romans 43 The apostle does not say that this was last in the order of time but simply says that this was done to them People are justified when they believe and when the work of sanctification commences in the soulrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoYe are justified - Εδικαιωθητε Ye have been brought into a state of favor with God your sins having been blotted out through Christ Jesus the Spirit of God witnessing the same to your conscience and carrying on by his energy the great work of regeneration in your heartsrdquo (Clarke)

The Work of the Spirit A process that continues with the aid of the

Word (Acts 2032) ldquoAnd to the word of his grace - That is to his gracious

word to his merciful promise Paul refers doubtless to the gospel including its promises of support its consoling truths and its directions to seek all needful help and comfort in Godrdquo (Barnesrdquo Notes)

ldquoAnd to the word of his grace The word will be a guide in all their difficulties and is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among the sanctified If it is followed they cannot strayrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

bull This work of the Spirit is age-lasting accomplished with the aid of the blessings involving the Spirit

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Promise of the Holy Spiritbull As promised by Peter (Acts 238-39 532)

To all those who repent and are baptized To all those who obey God This promise of the Spirit relates to his indwelling and the

accompanying blessings ldquoAnd ye shall receive - The gift of the Holy Spirit here does not mean

his extraordinary gifts or the power of working miracles but it simply means you shall partake of the influences of the Holy Spirit as far as they may be adapted to your case - as far as may be needful for your comfort peace and sanctification There is no evidence that they were all endowed with the power of working miracles nor does the connection of the passage require us thus to understand ithellipThere is peace calmness joy there is evidence of piety and that evidence is the product of the influences of the Spirit The fruit of the Spirit is love joy peace etc Galatians 522 Galatians 524 (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquo532 Given to them that obey Him The Holy Spirit is given only to those who have submitted to the Lord (Ac 228 Joh 73839) It dwells only in the obedient heartrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the SpiritbullTo convict the world through the gospel

Of sin righteousness and judgment (Jn 167-11)

Done through the gospel The instrument designed to produce faith

(Rom 1017 Col 15-6) ldquoAnd bringeth forth fruit - Wherever the pure Gospel

of Christ is preached it is the seed of the kingdom and must be fruitful in all those who receive it by faith in simplicity of heartrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoBringeth forth fruit It always bears fruit in holy lives wherever received (Peoplersquos New testament)

The Work of the Spirit Godrsquos power to save (Rom 116-17 Heb

412) ldquoAnd powerful - Mighty Its power is seen in

awakening the conscience alarming the fears laying bare the secret feelings of the heart and causing the sinner to tremble with the apprehension of the coming judgment All the great changes in the moral world for the better have been caused by the power of truthrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoquickmdashGreek living having living power as the rod of the mouth and the breath of the lips of the living GodhellippowerfulmdashGreek energetic not only living but energetically efficaciousrdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

The Work of the SpiritTo regenerate those who respond

Saving them through the washing of regeneration (baptism) (Tit 34-6 Jn 33-6) ldquoThe word in itself would naturally be understood as referring to baptism

(compare notes at Acts 2216) which was regarded as the emblem of washing away sins or of cleansing from them I say it was the emblem not the means of purifying the soul from sin If this be the allusion and it seems probable then the phrase washing of regeneration would mean that outward washing or baptism which is the emblem of regeneration and which is appointed as one of the ordinances connected with salvation see the notes at Mark 1616 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved (Barnesrsquo)

ldquoBy the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit Two elements enter into the saving these are referred to in John as the birth of water and of the Spirit (Joh 35) Gods spirit effects the renewal of the spirit of man by bringing him to faith and repentance through the preaching of the gospel thus the renewal of the Holy Spirit is begun and the gift of the Holy Spirit is promised as a sequence of baptism (Ro 61-8) shows that the sinner dies to sin is buried by baptism rises to a new life and is a new creature Washing to regeneration is literally bath of regeneration All commentators of reputation refer this to baptism such as Meyer Olshausen Lange Plumptree Schaff Canon Cook Wesley etc Regeneration is due to the Holy Spirit but baptism is an outward act that God requires to complete the fact The term regeneration only occurs here and Mt 1928rdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the Spirit Causing them to be reborn in conjunction

with the Word of God (1 Pet 122-23)To sanctify those who are saved

A process started when washed and justified (1 Cor 611) But ye are justified - Your sins are pardoned and you are

accepted as righteous and will be treated as such on account of the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ see the note at Romans 117 note at Romans 325-26 note at Romans 43 The apostle does not say that this was last in the order of time but simply says that this was done to them People are justified when they believe and when the work of sanctification commences in the soulrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoYe are justified - Εδικαιωθητε Ye have been brought into a state of favor with God your sins having been blotted out through Christ Jesus the Spirit of God witnessing the same to your conscience and carrying on by his energy the great work of regeneration in your heartsrdquo (Clarke)

The Work of the Spirit A process that continues with the aid of the

Word (Acts 2032) ldquoAnd to the word of his grace - That is to his gracious

word to his merciful promise Paul refers doubtless to the gospel including its promises of support its consoling truths and its directions to seek all needful help and comfort in Godrdquo (Barnesrdquo Notes)

ldquoAnd to the word of his grace The word will be a guide in all their difficulties and is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among the sanctified If it is followed they cannot strayrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

bull This work of the Spirit is age-lasting accomplished with the aid of the blessings involving the Spirit

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Work of the SpiritbullTo convict the world through the gospel

Of sin righteousness and judgment (Jn 167-11)

Done through the gospel The instrument designed to produce faith

(Rom 1017 Col 15-6) ldquoAnd bringeth forth fruit - Wherever the pure Gospel

of Christ is preached it is the seed of the kingdom and must be fruitful in all those who receive it by faith in simplicity of heartrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoBringeth forth fruit It always bears fruit in holy lives wherever received (Peoplersquos New testament)

The Work of the Spirit Godrsquos power to save (Rom 116-17 Heb

412) ldquoAnd powerful - Mighty Its power is seen in

awakening the conscience alarming the fears laying bare the secret feelings of the heart and causing the sinner to tremble with the apprehension of the coming judgment All the great changes in the moral world for the better have been caused by the power of truthrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoquickmdashGreek living having living power as the rod of the mouth and the breath of the lips of the living GodhellippowerfulmdashGreek energetic not only living but energetically efficaciousrdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

The Work of the SpiritTo regenerate those who respond

Saving them through the washing of regeneration (baptism) (Tit 34-6 Jn 33-6) ldquoThe word in itself would naturally be understood as referring to baptism

(compare notes at Acts 2216) which was regarded as the emblem of washing away sins or of cleansing from them I say it was the emblem not the means of purifying the soul from sin If this be the allusion and it seems probable then the phrase washing of regeneration would mean that outward washing or baptism which is the emblem of regeneration and which is appointed as one of the ordinances connected with salvation see the notes at Mark 1616 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved (Barnesrsquo)

ldquoBy the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit Two elements enter into the saving these are referred to in John as the birth of water and of the Spirit (Joh 35) Gods spirit effects the renewal of the spirit of man by bringing him to faith and repentance through the preaching of the gospel thus the renewal of the Holy Spirit is begun and the gift of the Holy Spirit is promised as a sequence of baptism (Ro 61-8) shows that the sinner dies to sin is buried by baptism rises to a new life and is a new creature Washing to regeneration is literally bath of regeneration All commentators of reputation refer this to baptism such as Meyer Olshausen Lange Plumptree Schaff Canon Cook Wesley etc Regeneration is due to the Holy Spirit but baptism is an outward act that God requires to complete the fact The term regeneration only occurs here and Mt 1928rdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the Spirit Causing them to be reborn in conjunction

with the Word of God (1 Pet 122-23)To sanctify those who are saved

A process started when washed and justified (1 Cor 611) But ye are justified - Your sins are pardoned and you are

accepted as righteous and will be treated as such on account of the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ see the note at Romans 117 note at Romans 325-26 note at Romans 43 The apostle does not say that this was last in the order of time but simply says that this was done to them People are justified when they believe and when the work of sanctification commences in the soulrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoYe are justified - Εδικαιωθητε Ye have been brought into a state of favor with God your sins having been blotted out through Christ Jesus the Spirit of God witnessing the same to your conscience and carrying on by his energy the great work of regeneration in your heartsrdquo (Clarke)

The Work of the Spirit A process that continues with the aid of the

Word (Acts 2032) ldquoAnd to the word of his grace - That is to his gracious

word to his merciful promise Paul refers doubtless to the gospel including its promises of support its consoling truths and its directions to seek all needful help and comfort in Godrdquo (Barnesrdquo Notes)

ldquoAnd to the word of his grace The word will be a guide in all their difficulties and is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among the sanctified If it is followed they cannot strayrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

bull This work of the Spirit is age-lasting accomplished with the aid of the blessings involving the Spirit

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Work of the Spirit Godrsquos power to save (Rom 116-17 Heb

412) ldquoAnd powerful - Mighty Its power is seen in

awakening the conscience alarming the fears laying bare the secret feelings of the heart and causing the sinner to tremble with the apprehension of the coming judgment All the great changes in the moral world for the better have been caused by the power of truthrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoquickmdashGreek living having living power as the rod of the mouth and the breath of the lips of the living GodhellippowerfulmdashGreek energetic not only living but energetically efficaciousrdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

The Work of the SpiritTo regenerate those who respond

Saving them through the washing of regeneration (baptism) (Tit 34-6 Jn 33-6) ldquoThe word in itself would naturally be understood as referring to baptism

(compare notes at Acts 2216) which was regarded as the emblem of washing away sins or of cleansing from them I say it was the emblem not the means of purifying the soul from sin If this be the allusion and it seems probable then the phrase washing of regeneration would mean that outward washing or baptism which is the emblem of regeneration and which is appointed as one of the ordinances connected with salvation see the notes at Mark 1616 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved (Barnesrsquo)

ldquoBy the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit Two elements enter into the saving these are referred to in John as the birth of water and of the Spirit (Joh 35) Gods spirit effects the renewal of the spirit of man by bringing him to faith and repentance through the preaching of the gospel thus the renewal of the Holy Spirit is begun and the gift of the Holy Spirit is promised as a sequence of baptism (Ro 61-8) shows that the sinner dies to sin is buried by baptism rises to a new life and is a new creature Washing to regeneration is literally bath of regeneration All commentators of reputation refer this to baptism such as Meyer Olshausen Lange Plumptree Schaff Canon Cook Wesley etc Regeneration is due to the Holy Spirit but baptism is an outward act that God requires to complete the fact The term regeneration only occurs here and Mt 1928rdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the Spirit Causing them to be reborn in conjunction

with the Word of God (1 Pet 122-23)To sanctify those who are saved

A process started when washed and justified (1 Cor 611) But ye are justified - Your sins are pardoned and you are

accepted as righteous and will be treated as such on account of the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ see the note at Romans 117 note at Romans 325-26 note at Romans 43 The apostle does not say that this was last in the order of time but simply says that this was done to them People are justified when they believe and when the work of sanctification commences in the soulrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoYe are justified - Εδικαιωθητε Ye have been brought into a state of favor with God your sins having been blotted out through Christ Jesus the Spirit of God witnessing the same to your conscience and carrying on by his energy the great work of regeneration in your heartsrdquo (Clarke)

The Work of the Spirit A process that continues with the aid of the

Word (Acts 2032) ldquoAnd to the word of his grace - That is to his gracious

word to his merciful promise Paul refers doubtless to the gospel including its promises of support its consoling truths and its directions to seek all needful help and comfort in Godrdquo (Barnesrdquo Notes)

ldquoAnd to the word of his grace The word will be a guide in all their difficulties and is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among the sanctified If it is followed they cannot strayrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

bull This work of the Spirit is age-lasting accomplished with the aid of the blessings involving the Spirit

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Work of the SpiritTo regenerate those who respond

Saving them through the washing of regeneration (baptism) (Tit 34-6 Jn 33-6) ldquoThe word in itself would naturally be understood as referring to baptism

(compare notes at Acts 2216) which was regarded as the emblem of washing away sins or of cleansing from them I say it was the emblem not the means of purifying the soul from sin If this be the allusion and it seems probable then the phrase washing of regeneration would mean that outward washing or baptism which is the emblem of regeneration and which is appointed as one of the ordinances connected with salvation see the notes at Mark 1616 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved (Barnesrsquo)

ldquoBy the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit Two elements enter into the saving these are referred to in John as the birth of water and of the Spirit (Joh 35) Gods spirit effects the renewal of the spirit of man by bringing him to faith and repentance through the preaching of the gospel thus the renewal of the Holy Spirit is begun and the gift of the Holy Spirit is promised as a sequence of baptism (Ro 61-8) shows that the sinner dies to sin is buried by baptism rises to a new life and is a new creature Washing to regeneration is literally bath of regeneration All commentators of reputation refer this to baptism such as Meyer Olshausen Lange Plumptree Schaff Canon Cook Wesley etc Regeneration is due to the Holy Spirit but baptism is an outward act that God requires to complete the fact The term regeneration only occurs here and Mt 1928rdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Work of the Spirit Causing them to be reborn in conjunction

with the Word of God (1 Pet 122-23)To sanctify those who are saved

A process started when washed and justified (1 Cor 611) But ye are justified - Your sins are pardoned and you are

accepted as righteous and will be treated as such on account of the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ see the note at Romans 117 note at Romans 325-26 note at Romans 43 The apostle does not say that this was last in the order of time but simply says that this was done to them People are justified when they believe and when the work of sanctification commences in the soulrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoYe are justified - Εδικαιωθητε Ye have been brought into a state of favor with God your sins having been blotted out through Christ Jesus the Spirit of God witnessing the same to your conscience and carrying on by his energy the great work of regeneration in your heartsrdquo (Clarke)

The Work of the Spirit A process that continues with the aid of the

Word (Acts 2032) ldquoAnd to the word of his grace - That is to his gracious

word to his merciful promise Paul refers doubtless to the gospel including its promises of support its consoling truths and its directions to seek all needful help and comfort in Godrdquo (Barnesrdquo Notes)

ldquoAnd to the word of his grace The word will be a guide in all their difficulties and is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among the sanctified If it is followed they cannot strayrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

bull This work of the Spirit is age-lasting accomplished with the aid of the blessings involving the Spirit

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Work of the Spirit Causing them to be reborn in conjunction

with the Word of God (1 Pet 122-23)To sanctify those who are saved

A process started when washed and justified (1 Cor 611) But ye are justified - Your sins are pardoned and you are

accepted as righteous and will be treated as such on account of the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ see the note at Romans 117 note at Romans 325-26 note at Romans 43 The apostle does not say that this was last in the order of time but simply says that this was done to them People are justified when they believe and when the work of sanctification commences in the soulrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoYe are justified - Εδικαιωθητε Ye have been brought into a state of favor with God your sins having been blotted out through Christ Jesus the Spirit of God witnessing the same to your conscience and carrying on by his energy the great work of regeneration in your heartsrdquo (Clarke)

The Work of the Spirit A process that continues with the aid of the

Word (Acts 2032) ldquoAnd to the word of his grace - That is to his gracious

word to his merciful promise Paul refers doubtless to the gospel including its promises of support its consoling truths and its directions to seek all needful help and comfort in Godrdquo (Barnesrdquo Notes)

ldquoAnd to the word of his grace The word will be a guide in all their difficulties and is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among the sanctified If it is followed they cannot strayrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

bull This work of the Spirit is age-lasting accomplished with the aid of the blessings involving the Spirit

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Work of the Spirit A process that continues with the aid of the

Word (Acts 2032) ldquoAnd to the word of his grace - That is to his gracious

word to his merciful promise Paul refers doubtless to the gospel including its promises of support its consoling truths and its directions to seek all needful help and comfort in Godrdquo (Barnesrdquo Notes)

ldquoAnd to the word of his grace The word will be a guide in all their difficulties and is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among the sanctified If it is followed they cannot strayrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

bull This work of the Spirit is age-lasting accomplished with the aid of the blessings involving the Spirit

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the Spiritbull The gift of the Spirit

As mentioned earlier in Acts 238-39 532Indwelling the Christian (Rom 89-11 1 Cor

619) ldquowhich is in you which ye have of God meaning the Holy Spirit which

was in them as in his temple which dwelt in their hearts and influenced their bodies lives and conversations and which they received of God as a wonderful instance of his grace and love to them that he should be bestowed upon them to regenerate renew and sanctify them to implant every grace to make them a fit habitation for God and meet for the inheritance of the saints in lightrdquo (Gill)

ldquoYour body is the temple of the Holy Ghost - What an astonishing saying is this As truly as the living God dwelt in the Mosaic tabernacle and in the temple of Solomon so truly does the Holy Ghost dwell in the souls of genuine Christians and as the temple and all its utensils were holy separated from all common and profane uses and dedicated alone to the service of God so the bodies of genuine Christians are holy and all their members should be employed in the service of God alonerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the Spirit Enabling the us to overcome the flesh (Rom

812-13) ldquoThrough the Spirit - By the aid of the Spirit by cherishing and

cultivating his influences What is here required can be accomplished only by the aid of the Holy Spiritrdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoNote (1) There can be no safety no holiness no happiness to those who are out of Christ No safety because all such are under the condemnation of the law (Ro 81) no holiness because such only as are united to Christ have the spirit of Christ (Ro 89) no happiness because to be carnally minded is death (Ro 86) [Hodge] (2) The sanctification of believers as it has its whole foundation in the atoning death so it has its living spring in the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ (Ro 82-4)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset Brown)

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the Spirit Strengthening us in the inner man (Eph 316

20) ldquoTo be strengthened with might - To be powerfully

strengthened That is to give you abundant strength to bear trials to perform your duties to glorify his namerdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquoBy his Spirit - By the sovereign energy of the Holy Ghost This fountain of spiritual energy can alone supply the spiritual strength which is necessary for this spiritual work and conflictrdquo (Clarke)

ldquoIn the inner man - In the soul Every man is a compound being he has a body and a soul The outward man is that alone which is seen and considered by men the inward man is that which stands particularly in reference to God and eternity The outward man is strengthened by earthly food etc the inward man by spiritual and heavenly influences Knowledge love peace and holiness are the food of the inward manrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the Spirit Interceding on our behalf (Rom 826-27)

ldquo826-27 Though the infirmities of Christians are many and great so that they would be overpowered if left to themselves yet the Holy Spirit supports them The Spirit as an enlightening Spirit teaches us what to pray for as a sanctifying Spirit works and stirs up praying graces as a comforting Spirit silences our fears and helps us over all discouragements The Holy Spirit is the spring of all desires toward God which are often more than words can utter The Spirit who searches the hearts can perceive the mind and will of the spirit the renewed mind and advocates his cause The Spirit makes intercession to God and the enemy prevails notrdquo (Matthew Henry)

ldquoBut the Spirit itself - The Holy Spirit Romans 89-11 Maketh intercession - The word used here υπερεντυνγχανει huperentungchanei occurs no where else in the New Testament The word εντυνγχανω entungchano however is used several times It means properly to be present with anyone for the purpose of aiding as an advocate does in a court of justice hence to intercede for anyone or to aid or assist in any manner In this place it simply means that the Holy Spirit greatly assists or aids us not by praying for us but in our prayers and infirmitiesrdquo (Barnesrsquo)

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the SpiritServing as a seal and earnest

Marking us as belonging to God (Eph 113 430) ldquosealedmdashas Gods confirmed children by the Holy Spirit as

the seal (Ac 191-6 Ro 816 23 1Jo 324 see on [2360] 2Co 122) A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to the contract in it (Joh 333 627 compare 2Co 33)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoIn a similar manner Christians are said to be sealed to be sealed by the Holy Spirit Ephesians 113 Ephesians 430 that is the Holy Spirit is given to them to confirm them as belonging to God He grants them His Spirit He renews and sanctifies them He produces in their hearts those feelings hopes and desires which are an evidence that they are approved by God that they are regarded as his adopted children that their hope is genuine and that their redemption and salvation are sure - in the same way as a seal makes a will or an agreement sure (Barnesrsquo Notes)

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the Spirit An earnest or guarantee as a promise of our

inheritance (Eph 114) ldquothe Spirit of God certifies the right to the heavenly inheritance as well

as gives a meetness for it he is the firstfruits of eternal glory and happiness and of the same kind with it and as he is enjoyed in measure by the saints now is lesser than the communion which they shall have with him and with the Father and the Son hereafter for the best things are reserved till last and being once given into the heart as an earnest he always continues he never removes more or is ever taken awayrdquo (Gill)

ldquoWhich is the earnest of our inheritance - This Holy Spirit sealing the soul with truth and righteousness is the earnest foretaste and pledge of the heavenly inheritance And he who can produce this earnest - this witness of the Spirit in the day of judgment shall have an abundant entrance into the holiestrdquo (Clarke)

ldquo114 Which is the earnest of our inheritance The earnest money was a small part of the purchase money given in hand to bind the bargain Paul says that the Holy Spirit given to Gods children is such earnest of the inheritance that he will bestow a small part given now as a proof to his adopted childrenrdquo (Peoplersquos New Testament)

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the SpiritbullThe fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 516-

18)Leading those who walk in the Spirit

ldquoBut if ye be led by the Spirit That is of God who is the guide and leader of his people It is a metaphor taken from the leading of persons that are blind as such are before conversion and whom the Spirit of God leads in ways they knew not and in paths they had not known or from the leading of children and teaching them to go so the Spirit leads regenerate persons and teaches them to walk by faith in Christ (Gill)

ldquoBut if ye be led of the Spirit - If ye receive again the Gospel and the grace of Christ and permit yourselves to be influenced by the Holy Spirit whom you are now grieving ye are not under the law - ye will not feel those evil propensities which now disgrace and torment you but they must prevail while you are not under the influence of the grace and Spirit of Christrdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the Spirit

Producing the graces of Christ-like conduct (Gal 522-26) ldquo(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening

Spirit who causes us to die to sin and live to God let us show it in our deeds that is by holiness of liferdquo (Geneva Study Bible)

ldquo525 If we live by the Spirit - If we are indeed raised from the dead and are alive to God by the operation of his Spirit Let us walk by the Spirit - Let us follow his guidance in all our tempers thoughts words and actions (Wesleyrsquos Notes)

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the SpiritCreating a deepening love for God as our

Father (Rom 815-16) ldquowe cry Abba FathermdashThe word cry is emphatic expressing the

spontaneousness the strength and the exuberance of the final emotions In Ga 46 this cry is said to proceed from the Spirit in us drawing forth the filial exclamation in our hearts Here it is said to proceed from our own hearts under the vitalizing energy of the Spirit as the very element of the new life in believers (compare Mt 1019 20 and see on [2227] Ro 84)rdquo (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

ldquoSome have supposed that the apostle by using the Syriac and Greek words which express Father shows the union of Jewish and Gentile believers in those devotions which were dictated by a filial spirit Others have thought that these were the first words which those generally uttered who were made partakers of the Holy Spirit It is enough to know that it was the language of their sonship and that it expressed the clear assurance they had of being received into the Divine favor the affection and gratitude they felt for this extraordinary blessing and their complete readiness to come under the laws and regulations of the family and to live in the spirit of obediencerdquo (Clarke)

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

The Blessings of the Spirit Filling us with hope (Rom 1513)

ldquoThrough the power - By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit It is by his power alone that the Christian has the hope of eternal life see Ephesians 113-14 Romans 824rdquo (Barnesrsquo Notes)

ldquothrough the power of the Holy Ghost not by might or power of man but by that same divine power which first began the good work and must fulfill it which at first implanted the grace of hope and must perform the work of that as of faith The same power is requisite to cause grace to abound or saints to abound in the exercise of it as was to the first production of it The Vulgate Latin reads that ye may abound in hope and in the power of the Holy Ghostrdquo (Gill)

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings at the beginning of the Christian agehellipIncluded the process of revealing and

confirming Godrsquos WordWas completed by special offices (apostles

prophets) and gifts (Signs wonders)Once the Word was fully revealed the

miraculous manifestations came to an end

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

Conclusion

bullThe Spiritrsquos promise work and blessings throughout the Christian agehellipIncludes the important process of

convicting regenerating and sanctifying souls

Is accomplished by preaching the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey

While this is not a miraculous manifestation it is a divine operation

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives

Conclusion

bullWhen reacting to many false claims about the Holy Spirit we must be careful not tohellipQuench the Spirit by denying His work in

our salvationGrieve the Spirit by failing to seek His aid

in living holy lives