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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
One reason for the confusion surrounding the function of the Holy Spirit is because of his inclusion in the “Trinity.” A word nowhere appearing in scripture but one theologians devised to describe a unique and difficult concept; characterizing the Spirit’s existence and function.
Besides being described as a Counselor (NIV) or Comforter (KJ) in John’s Gospel (14:16) whose function in part is to remind us of everything Christ has taught us ( John 14:26); other titles are found in Paul’s letter to the Roman church, which also imply function. He is the Spirit of life, Romans 8:2; the Spirit, vs. 4; the Spirit of Christ, vs. 9; the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead, vs. 11; the Spirit of God, vs. 14; the Spirit of Sonship, vs. 15. All these, to one degree or another, describe the Spirit that gives life, vs. 2; peace, vs. 6; freedom, vs. 9; leadership, vs. 14; assurance, vs. 16; hope, vs. 23,24; and help, vs. 26.
The Spirit is with and abides in all Christians, vs. 9 & 14; identifying us as God’s children, vs. 15,16; and assures us that even though we may indeed experience reversals and disappointments, we will ultimately share in His glory, vs. 17. A major function of the Spirit is to “speak” for us before God. Especially during times when we are not only at a loss for words to express our sorrow and need, but our appreciation as well. At these times, “…the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.” Romans 8:26 Thus in some sense, prayer not only goes to God, but comes from him.
These all have important implications for understanding the Spirit as a personal being; not merely a force to be channeled as the need arises. The Spirit in some ways distinguishable from the Father, as he prays to him for us. While on the other hand, He is closely related to God – who knows his “mind” and recognizes his “groans” on our behalf. Mysterious indeed!
And while scripture nowhere demands that we follow the leading of the Spirit, it does list in detail the consequences of our not doing so. Nor is he portrayed as something/someone to be manipulated to our own purposes as he is not a “possession” we grasp on to but a “person” we love and obey. (An example Jesus set for all who follow him. Philippians 2:5-8)
We are free to choose to follow the Spirit and live according to his leading by attuning our minds to his, vs. 5; to be “controlled” by the Spirit, vs. 9; by putting to death our old way of life, vs. 13; being led by the Spirit into the way of salvation and the family of God, vs. 15-18.1 All referring to a purposeful yielding of self as we actively cooperate in the will of God; a serious commitment to live for Christ through the leadership of his Spirit for the glory of God.
1Based on reference notes to Romans 8 in the NIV Study Bible
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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