7 Days After Getting SavedПримерок

THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT & BAPTISMS Who is the Holy Spirit? God has existed in relationship with Himself for all eternity. He exists as one substance in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Although each member of the Trinity serves different functions, they each possess equal power and authority. The Holy Spirit is our advantage, a source of power and guidance in our day-to-day life. The Holy Spirit is not extra. He’s essential. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit as our helper! The Bible never refers to the Holy Spirit as “it.” This is important because if you don’t see Him as a person, you will not develop a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit’s presence assures us of our relationship with Christ. He guides believers into all truth and exalts Christ. He convicts us, comforts us, gives us spiritual gifts, and makes us more like Christ. Evidence of the Holy Spirit working in our lives can be seen through the fruits of the Holy Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control), speaking in a heavenly language, and gifts of the Holy Spirit. What are baptisms? Water baptisms are the outward expression of one’s inward decision to publicly follow Christ. This is a symbolic act to publicly profess one’s salvation. In Matthew 28:19 God commands it, but our salvation is not reliant upon it. We practice full-immersion baptism, symbolizing the process of death and resurrection that Jesus went through for us. The representation of going underwater signifies your old life being washed away and as you come out of the water you emerge as a new creation. Having an understanding of the Holy Spirit and baptisms is a crucial part of walking with Christ! Application/Reflection Questions: * What is a specific area in your life that you need the help of the Holy Spirit? * In what ways is the Holy Spirit speaking to you? * As you have decided to follow Jesus, how have you publicly professed your faith? Prayer: Holy Spirit, thank You for your presence in my life. I pray that You empower me to be a bold witness of Your love and grace. I thank You, that You will lead and guide me throughout my day. I pray that You speak to me today and that I am quick to respond and obey Your voice. I thank You, that You are renewing my mind and bringing me peace, joy, and love into my life. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen!