2015.5.31 礼拝

John 16:8 & 13 – Trust the work of the Holy Spirit
John 16:8 – When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment.
John 16:13 – But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.
Reviewing last week – Pentecost was not only a time when the disciples received the Holy Spirit but that the people around witnessed the occasion. We further learn that the disciples confirmed the promise of Jesus was fulfilled.
There are people who imagine that prophecy, healing, a revelation, speaking in “tongues” or an unexpected occurrence are the work of the Holy spirit. There is no doubt that the disciples had such experiences, however, it is clear as written in the Bible (Acts) that they were not the only significance of Pentecost. Jesus promised as follows:
Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
This came true on Pentecost – Jesus’ promise and command were accomplished – [Disciples received the Holy Spirit] [became witnesses of Jesus]. This promise not only applies to the disciples as can be clearly seen in John 16.
The Holy Spirit makes us aware of our sins.
People can admit their sins and are led to repent by the power of the Holy Spirit when we witness Christ.
John 16:8 – When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment.
Acts 2:37 – When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”
‚The Holy Spirit clarifies the righteousness.
When we are witnesses of Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit, it reveals the righteousness of Christ.
Mark 15:39 – And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard his cry and saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”
ƒThe Holy Spirit makes the judgment evident.
When we are witnesses of Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit, the fear of judgment is made evident.
Galatians 3:13 – Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”
④The Holy Spirit guides us to the truth.
When we testify with the power of the Holy Spirit, people will be enlightened by the truth.
What is said in ~ƒ that Jesus is Christ is confirmed, i.e.
John 14:6 – “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
There must be a lot of people, among Christians, who wish to experience the strong power of the Holy Spirit. The best way to experience this is to “be witness of Christ”. This is when the Holy Spirit strongly works on us. If we were to pray, “Lord, fill us with your Holy Spirit. I wish to feel the work of your Spirit.”
And if the Lord asks, “Why?”, how would you reply? We are obliged to answer the question.
All Christians who believe in Christ has received the Holy Spirit. It is necessary for us to understand why we have received the Holy Spirit, and why God has given us the power through the Holy spirit!