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Is Obedience Required Before Receiving God's Holy Spirit?
'Ready Answer' by Earl L. HennTo receive the Holy Spirit, one must have faith in Jesus Christ. Repentance from sin is essential, as it signifies a turning away from one's old life. Baptism in water is often mentioned as a step that follows repentance, symbolizing the cleansing of sin and the believer's commitment to a new life in Christ. Additionally, a sincere desire to obey God and live according to His will is crucial. Prayer and a heart open to God's guidance are also important conditions for receiving the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsGod gives His Holy Spirit only to those who have demonstrated in attitude and behavior that they have repented. They must then be baptized and obey His commandments. No one who continues to live a lifestyle apart from God's law has received the Spirit of God or has the power of God working in them. Though Jesus says God grants the Holy Spirit to those who ask, these conditions must be met for it to be bestowed.
What Does It Mean to 'Walk in the Spirit'?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeIf fleshly things become more important, we are on a trajectory toward death. We must exercise control, drawing on the power of God's Spirit.
Law and Spirit Together
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the journey of spiritual growth and maturity, God has provided two essential gifts to His people: the law and the Holy Spirit. These were delivered in two significant installments, separated by about 1500 years—the giving of the law at Mount Sinai to the children of Israel, and the giving of the Holy Spirit at Jerusalem to the fledgling Church of God. Both are indispensable tools designed by a benevolent Father in heaven to help attain godly character and enter His kingdom. Regarding the Holy Spirit, it represents the mind, power, and guidance of God. It is not given in a haphazard manner but only to those who obey Him. If obedience ceases, there is a risk of losing this precious gift, as God will not continue to grant His power to someone who might misuse it. The Holy Spirit encompasses the will, power, and ability to act, influencing feelings, desires, and attitudes. When combined with truth, which is encapsulated in God's law and revealed way of life, worship becomes valid before God. It is a necessity to worship in both spirit and truth, maintaining a balance between the two. Without the Holy Spirit, one cannot be considered a child of God, nor possess righteousness, nor hold hope for resurrection to eternal life. The law alone cannot achieve these outcomes, but when coupled with the Holy Spirit, all things become possible. This combination allows for the keeping of the law in its spiritual intent, not merely in the letter, transforming the mindset to focus on spiritual goals and desires rather than fleshly ones, leading to life and peace.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twelve)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe fault of the Old Covenant was with the hearts of the people. Christ took it upon Himself to amend the fault enabling us to keep the commandments.
The Wonderful Ordinance of Water Baptism
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsBaptism symbolizes a burial and resurrection, or the crucifixion of the carnal self. After a person realizes his ways have been wrong, he should counsel for baptism.
Acts (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughAdherents to the Pentecostal movement try to mimic some of the superficial surface manifestations of Acts 2 rather than follow the teaching given on that day.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The socio-cultural milieu before the writing of Hebrews created difficulties for the Jewish converts to the Gospel, who were deemed to be traitors.
What Do You Mean . . . the Unpardonable Sin?
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletCan a Christian commit a sin, and still be a Christian? Or would this be 'the unpardonable sin'? Or would it prove he never was a Christian?
Acts (Part Nine)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughStephen's martyrdom and his compassion on his persecutors, followed by the reaction against his brutal murder, resulted in a rapid spreading of the Gospel.
Why Does God Keep Secrets?
'Ready Answer' by David F. MaasProverbs 25:2 says, 'It is the glory of God to conceal a matter.' God hides certain things to make us dig deep because the focused effort engraves the lessons.
The Fourth Commandment
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe Sabbath is foundational to a healthy relationship with God. It is special, holy day of rest and time to reconnect with our Creator.