Message: The Central Role of Relationship with the Holy Spirit in Christianity (05/29/'24)

Message: The Central Role of Relationship with the Holy Spirit in Christianity Dear Friends, I want to share a profound insight about the Holy Spirit and its significance in our Christian faith. The Holy Spirit is not just an abstract energy or a mystical force; it represents the very energy and will of God. When Jesus Christ, who embodied the spirit of God, died on the cross and rose again, He manifested God's will and united us with God in a profound way. This relationship between the Holy Spirit and us, as believers, is the core of our faith. It is more important than merely focusing on the Holy Spirit's energy. Unlike other practices that seek enlightenment and salvation through breath control, meditation, or mental training, Christianity emphasizes a deep, personal connection between God and humans. This relationship is central to our understanding and distinguishes our faith from approaches that explore the mind and body's energy through psychological or mental concentration. The relationship with God challenges everything and is the key to understanding the Holy Spirit's role in our lives. Let’s reflect on these Bible verses that highlight these points: The Holy Spirit represents the energy and will of God: Acts 1:8: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Romans 8:14: "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God." Jesus Christ embodies the spirit of God, manifested through His crucifixion and resurrection: John 1:14: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." Romans 8:11: "And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you." The relationship between the Holy Spirit and believers is emphasized: John 14:26: "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." Galatians 4:6: "Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, 'Abba, Father.'" Emphasis on the profound connection between God and humans: John 15:5: "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." James 4:8: "Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." As we reflect on these scriptures, let’s embrace and nurture our relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. This relationship is not only the heart of our faith but also the source of our strength and guidance in every aspect of our lives. Blessings, Pastor Steven G. Lee (May 29, 2024)