The Holy Spirit in Witness: Part 1
Memory Passage
The Spirit himself testifies with our
spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children then we are heirs-
heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in
order that we may also share in his glory.
Romans 8:16-17
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:11-16
It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Insights
"Today, evangelists are the obstetricians of the church-those gifted at bringing
new births." -Kent Hughs, Ephesians: The Mystery of the Body of Christ
Consider this!
Relay races always have the person that starts the race and the person that
carries the baton to the finish. There are those who bring people to the starting
gate-those who share the gospel with others and those who bring them to
saving faith. The important point is that every person is involved in the race
and that we are all part of the process. The applause is held for the end.
Personal Reflection
- At times we are the people who bring others to the starting gate. This is
evangelism. What role does the Holy Spirit play in helping you communicate
the gospel message with those around you?
Prayer
Dear God, I recognize that every believer is part of the process of helping
people become faithful followers of Jesus Christ. Help me to understand my
role in the process. Grant me a heart after your heart, ears that are able to
hear the prompting of your Spirit, and feet that are mobilized to do what you've
called me to do. Amen.
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