It is important that the Old and New Testaments are in synch with respect to the Holy Spirit's deity. In Exodus 31:3, the word Elohim is used for the Spirit of God, while in Isaiah 11:2, the word Yahweh is used for the Spirit of the Lord. In Romans 8:9, Paul makes it clear that the OT refers to the deity of the Holy Spirit.
Numerous Bible texts show that the Holy Spirit is God, since He is ascribed the same qualities as God the Father. He is eternal (Heb.9:14); He is all knowing (1Cor.2:10-11); He is all powerful (Rom.15:18-19); and He is everywhere present (Ps.139:7). The names of the persons of the Trinity are also joined in a way that implies full and complete equality of Being and deity (Matt.28:19; 2Cor.13:14).
The Holy Spirit is the only One who can give inner certainty and assurance of our right relationship with God (Rom.8:16). He bears witness to the truth of Jesus' life and ministry (John15:26). He indwells and gives strength to believers (1Cor.6:19; Eph.3:16). He calls and separates believers for Christian service (Acts 8:29; 13:2; 16:6-7). He empowers believers to proclaim the truth that they have known (Acts1:8).
To deny the deity of the Holy Spirit, as some theologians do, is also to deny His personality, making Him only an influence.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment