The Holy Spirit Today

John 3:3-8

The Holy Spirit, the promise of the Father, arrived at Pentecost but was not
new to mankind. Scripture tells us that He was present from the very
beginning
(Genesis 1:2) along with the Father and the Son (Colossians 1:16). He was
also evident at various times during Israel's history. To appreciate the
Holy
Spirit's presence, let's look at His interaction with man.

In Old Testament days, the Spirit of God did not interact with the nation as
a whole. Instead, He came upon individuals for a specific task. A master
craftsman
received the Spirit in order to build the first tabernacle (Exodus 31:1-5).
Seventy elders working as administrators were given the Spirit (Numbers
11:16-17).
Mighty warriors such as Gideon (Judges 6:34) and Samson (Judges 13:25) and
leaders like Moses and David also received the Spirit's presence (1 Samuel
16:13).

Today, by indwelling every true believer, the Holy Spirit works through the
entire body of Christ. His presence with each one of us is permanent,
whereas
before the church age, He would not necessarily remain with a person (Psalm
51:11).

In the gospel accounts, the Spirit continued to operate as He had during Old
Testament times. He came upon individuals for a certain reason and length of
time. We see Him active in the life of Jesus' mother Mary, and John the
Baptist's parents, Zacharias and Elizabeth.

Once Jesus entered heaven, the Spirit began a new work which continues
today. Have you thanked God recently for sending His comforting, teaching,
and guiding
Spirit to live within you?


-- 
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.1/421 - Release Date: 8/16/2006