It’s good to pause sometimes and reflect on how God actually saves us. What does it mean to be “born again”? What is the Holy Spirit doing in our lives when we come to Christ—and even long after we’ve made that initial decision to follow...
The Spirit Who Unites: How the Holy Spirit Begins the Work of Salvation Last week, we explored the gifts of the Spirit, particularly the “sign gifts” like tongues, prophecy, and healing. We discussed the theological debate...
We didn’t expect it. Stacey and I were visiting our sending church, giving a missions update on a Wednesday evening. As the service closed, the pastor invited people forward to be prayed for—just a time of commissioning and spiritual encouragement...
There’s something sacred about gathering together in the middle of a busy week, carving out space for God. You could be home on the patio, enjoying a burger in the spring air—but you’re here. That, in itself, is a sign of spiritual health. Why...
Where do we find Jesus in the Old Testament? As the ultimate author of both Old and New Testaments, the Holy Spirit inspired the Bible to serve as one big story, pointing to and finding fulfillment in the person of Jesus. After his resurrection...
One of the most powerful images used in the New Testament to describe the Holy Spirit is that of a “seal.” This concept reveals profound truths about the Christian’s identity, security, and relationship with God. The idea of the Holy Spirit as a...
Romans 8:12–17 So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led...
The Holy Spirit is Essential to Conversion and the Christian Life Romans 8 is the climax of Paul’s theology of what it means to be saved (i.e., soteriology). Romans 8 is also the famous “Holy Spirit” passage. This means that the Holy Spirit in...
