Travis81

How would you differentiate between (1) the Spirit's voice and (2) the Spirit nudge or prompting? As for me this is a difficult question to answer, for me the two are close, near. His voice -the Spirit’s nudging both are guiding influence spoken into my life. Nonetheless, to answer the question I guess I could differentiate in this sense I hear His voice more acutely as I surrender (when I’m caught up in my right now, or when I like Balaam walk with a fixed mind instead of a transformed mind); (when I study His Word and do not gain understanding, as I rest He speaks to me providing guidance liberally. I receive nudges from Him in my everyday living (the nudge maybe as I hear a song; see the beauty of/in the day His created glory; viewing life lived out/seeing someone in need; when my walk isn’t vulgar, [closer to ethical/morally sound (self-righteous)], yet lacking (minus Micah 6:6-8; and/or when I’m caught up in my right now). What can you do to sensitize yourself to His voice and promptings? Colossians 3:1-4, being that I have been raised up and abide in Christ; daily with His help I strive to mortify my desires differing and not aligning with His, so that I can focus on my relationship with Him as I walk in faith, (John 10:4,14, 27), hearing His voice. Nudging/prompting - Therefore see that you walk carefully [living life with honor, purpose, and courage; shunning those who tolerate and enable evil], not as the unwise, but as wise [sensible, intelligent, discerning people], His voice; His nudging/prompting both will align with His Word and His Character, my prayers are to be sensitive to His leading be it His voice and/or His nudging/prompting. The Father communicates through His Word; He communicates through the Holy Spirit; He communicates through situations, events, and circumstances of our lives; He communicates through the people in our lives (within and beyond our circle of influence), as I press into Him my desire is the hear His voice over all voice that do not align with His.

What connects us to the mind of Christ? He - The Spirit is the connection between God's mind and ours. Do you have a regular Quiet Time? Yes! most mornings. I’d love to say each and every morning, but unfortunately some mornings I have entertained distractions. Scriptures demonstrate on multiple occasions distractive devotions, wherein the Believers looked unto idols. Sometimes that which I deem to be good can become an “idol,” hence a spiritual distraction in my life if I allow and/or if I dwell upon. The idol I’m referring to isn’t wooden, stone, electronic, etc.… but more so something/anything replacing God’s presence/intimacy/importance. There have been morning where I have allowed routine to derail my uninterrupted time with God. Even so, I’m also committed to meeting Him regularly and throughout the day. I’m ever thankful/grateful He doesn’t cease to communicate with me throughout the day, and that I have the liberty to speak with Him throughout the day; even the morning’s of the day that I’m missing Him! What could you do to make it more meaningful? Be Quiet- Isaiah 30:15 - For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: In returning [to Me] and resting [in Me] you shall be saved; in quietness and in [trusting] confidence shall be your strength. But you would not Isaiah 30:15 (VOICE) 15 Listen! The Lord, the Eternal, the Holy One of Israel says, Eternal One: In returning and rest, you will be saved. In quietness and trust you will find strength. God invites His people to lean only on Him. If they will just stop their busyness and self-reliance, God will be able to take care of them. But you refused.

What pattern do you see emerging in Jesus' prayer life? This is a challenging question for me, mainly because I believe His pattern was to pray w/o ceasing (recurring prayer, not necessarily nonstop talking, more so life communicating; conversing with the Father throughout His life). I feel that He demonstrated a continual attitude of prayer; instantaneous and intimate communication (intimacy) with the Father. He lived in continual God-consciousness, wherein everything He saw and experienced as needed/desired He shared with the Father. His life, as should ours, consisted of continual prayer/conversations with the Father – all of life’s encounters - success, challenges, circumstances, situations and/or events become an opportunity to commune with the Father. He prayed with purpose, according to the Will of God (succinct at times Luke 11:41-42 and/or as needed Luke 6:12), He prayed regularly/routinely Luke 5:16; He prayed intercessory prayers Matthew 19:13; John 17, He prayed with others Luke 9:28; He prayed/communicated with the Father w/o ceasing. I also agree with ALL that’s written within the lesson (Jesus being quiet (i.e. being in a place of solitude talking, with His Father, Mark 1:33-38), & He also listened, (Luke 4:42; 5:16; 6:12; 9:18, 28b; 11:1; 22:39-41); through communication with the Father learning what to do. The conversations/prayers were monologue; He voiced His needs/concerns; and He also listened. His stepping away from the crowd sets a great example for us! Why do you think He spends Quiet Time with the Father before the day begins? I think He did so as an example for us. I believe He prayed all throughout the day, even so the mornings, perhaps were intentional moments of intimacy, intentional moments with less opportunity for interruptions. He was God, He was also a man; being so He did not abuse His divine power. As man He needed time with the Father prior to carrying out the Fathers Will. He sought periods of growth, encouragement, edifying, strengthening, guidance, etc.… How does this prepare Him for His ministry? I believe His communicating with the Father prepared Him as met the day, as He met the night. He received that which was needed as He walked according to the Fathers’ instruction, guidance, leading! Hebrews 5:7 During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. He prayed after monumental crises (John’s beheading); & amplified blessing Matthew 14:23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, Why does Jesus minster through the power of the Spirit instead of in His own power? From the lesson: "Jesus doesn't minister on His inherent power as the unique Son of God. Rather, He spends time with the Father to know what the Father is doing. Jesus ministers in the power of the Holy Spirit." John's Testimony about Jesus: John 3:32-36 [ Verse 34 "For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God; for He gives the Spirit without measure”]. John 5:19 - Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner. John 14:10 - "Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in Me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on My own initiative, but the Father abiding in Me does His works. I think, I believe Jesus ministered through the Power of the Spirit instead of His own to demonstrate to Believers the example that the Father preferred and prefers. Just as in the Book of Beginnings, God said let Us [Genesis 1:26 - And God said, Let us ...], Jesus lived, moved and had His being in cooperation and coordination with the power of the Holy Spirit within him and the Guidance of The Father. filled with the Spirit. John 8:27-29 (TPT) - (Even after all of this, they still didn’t realize that He was speaking about His heavenly Father.) Verse 28 “You will know me as ‘I AM’ after you have lifted me up from the earth as the Son of Man. Then you will realize that I do nothing on my own initiative, but I only speak the truth that the Father has revealed to me. I am His messenger and He is always with me, for I only do that which delights His heart.” Jesus was subject to the Father (John 5:30 (TPT) -“Nothing I do is from my own initiative, for as I hear the judgment passed by my Father, I execute judgment. And My judgments will be perfect, because I can do nothing on My own, except to fulfill the desires of My Father who sent Me.) Jesus did not come to do his own will, but the will of the Father (Luke 22:42 (TPT) - “Father, if you are willing, take this cup of agony away from Me. But no matter what, Your will must be Mine.”)

If people are always promoting themselves and pointing to how God is using them, what does that say about them? If a person does this, it is of my opinion he/she is being lead of/by his/her own spirit. Being that we are to serve and reverence the Lord. It is possible a person is a person is always promoting themselves and pointing to how he/she believes God’s suing them, they are not imitating the example of Christ nor the examples Christ set before us. He/she are not walking in meekness nor humility. He/she may be hook by the prince of the air’s enticement “the pride of life” He/she may desire receive credit or glory for things God does through the gifting and not realize he/she is attempting to take glory belonging to God He/she may desire to feel valued or more important than the honor that God gives or will give them He/she may desire to be seen and heard of men; to be praised of/by man About their sense of self-worth? I believe if he/she were to perform a sincere/honest self-assessment, he/she would have at a minimum, an idea as to why they desire to always promote there gifting/themselves. Perhaps their self-worth below the surface is low; however above the surface it is projected as high. (Some people boast self-promote due to low self worth and insecurity; some due to self-centeredness/conceit either or in my thinking lend to a facet of "the pride of life" About their maturity? If a person always promote themselves may he/she abide in Christ even the more as he/she are being sanctified. Philippians 3:12 - Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Colossians 1:28 - Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: 2nd Timothy 3:17 - That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. Their realism? Their levelheadedness is off centered, if he/she are always promoting themselves and pointing to how God is using them he/she are demonstrating symptoms of self-centeredness. Their humility? If he/she are always promoting themselves and pointing to how God is using them the visibility of humility is probably low. of all my responses regarding probable motives of a self-promoting person, they are purely speculative; however if a person finds themselves in this state as he/she grow in Christ (abiding and through sanctification he/she mind will transform and be renewed). What spiritual gifts has God given you, and how are you using them to his glory? I think to have the most accurate answer to this question one would have to ask members of the congregation where I fellowship and or my fellow coworkers. I enjoy teaching opportunities!

What are lessons do you learn from verse 11? The reaffirmations from 1st Corinthians 12:11 for me is plainly stated within the Verse: 1st Corinthians 12:11 - But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will. "All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as He determines." The Spirit gives the gifts, we decide if we will use the gift carnally, and/or of we will follow the leading of the Spirit’s anointed guidance. What is the role of the Holy Spirit in spiritual gifts? The Holy Spirit roles in spiritual gifts as well as He Himself being a gift unto the Believer is to empower us to administer abundant living as God deems appropriate for purpose, His purpose. He is not only the Author of spiritual gifts/ability, He is the gift/ability Giver. He gives this anointing to Believers so that we may function as the body of Christ on this side of heaven. So that as legs, feet, arms, hands, etc.… we may be His ambassadors, His agents showing forth to the world His love, His grace, His mercy as we glorify and reverence Him. When we chose to use the gifts according to our own carnality we seek glory for ourselves and dishonor Him, and misrepresent His character, His Love.

In the twentieth century we saw the evangelistic power of preaching combined with healing the sick. Where in Jesus' ministry do you see this combination? John 4, the woman at the well! John 5 The man at the pool of Bethesda! There are so many, it could be said each time Jesus healed the evidence of evangelistic power of preaching combined with healing the sick can be seen. Where in Paul's ministry? Acts 14:8-11 healing - after sorting through misguidance/misunderstanding - Acts 14:21 - And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, additions the Church/Disciples Acts 16:16-18 Demon expulsion - after sorting through misdirection/misdeeds – Acts 16:25-34 addition to the Church/body – Fellowship/comfort/edification Acts 16:40 Acts 23:7-10 Publius was healed of a fever and of a bloody flux - others were healed which had diseases – Verse 10 Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary. In Peter's ministry? Of those mentioned I like this one: Acts 9:32-35 And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord. We also have Acts 9:36-41 - Tabitha/Dorcas arise - Verse 42 - And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. In Philip's ministry? Acts 8:5-7 Those that were in bondage were freed – through the preaching of the Gospel (Christ) healing came to the brokenhearted, deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the spiritually blind, and liberty to those that were bruised - Verse 8 And there was great joy in that city.

Is it legitimate to use Jesus as our example in the use of spiritual gifts? It is my belief Jesus should be the example Or was He so different than we are that we can't pattern our ministry after his example? He was different in that He was without sin. His birth was different than our, yet He did not abuse or misuse His divine power nor His gifting's (Philippians 2:6-8). We as Believers, being born anew are also born of the Spirit in faith. I believe we should follow Christ’s example as we live move and have our being. All that He did, was under the unction of the Father’s guidance. His motives were not carnal; His appointed opportunities were for and of purpose according to the will of God. He never abused the anointing that destroys yokes! Where do you see the gift of knowledge in the Old Testament? Perhaps in 1st Samuel 3:4-10 as Eli gained insight from God The call of God on Saul 1st Samuel 9:15-27 The deeds of Gehazi 2nd Kings 5:20-27 In the New Testament? Though there are many, I like the example used in the lesson from John 4:17-18

How could a person have the spiritual gift of pastor or teacher without having an official position in a church? They may be blessed with the gift and not have title, they may conduct the attributes of the gift as they minister in various capacities and not have the title. Acts 1:26 And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles. There can be a ordination service similar or differing from that of Acts 1:26. However, the ordination commencement carried out by man doesn't mean that others cannot possess the spiritual gifting of pastor/teacher without having an official position in a church. I know of someone that ministers to returning citizens and those that are incarcerated in the capacity of teacher and evangelist w/o an official position in a church. Galatians 1:1 - Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) According to Scripture the person can be appointed and anointed by God to use the spiritual gifting's of pastor or teacher. The lesson use the Apostle Paul as an example: “Paul was an apostle, but clearly he functioned as a pastor during part of his ministry. As a teacher he taught not only locally, but by his letters. He was an evangelist, and you might argue that he was also a prophet” What must a church do if its "senior pastor" doesn't have the spiritual gift of pastor? If the “Senior Pastor” is in place due to nepotism, election, appointment, anointed, etc… is the Senior Pastor aligns his/her gifting with the will of God the congregation should follow as the Spirit leads, they should follow as the Senior follows Christ! If the Senior Pastor does not aligns his/her gifting with the will of God the Scriptures doesn’t encourage disobedience, but to be obedience to God more than man and to try his/her spirit with the Spirit. Hebrews 13:17 - Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that [is] unprofitable for you. Hebrews 13:7 - Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of [their] conversation. 1st Thessalonians 5:12 - 5:13 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. [And] be at peace among yourselves. 1st Timothy 5:17 - Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. Galatians 6:6 - Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. The congregation should seek the counsel of the Lord as they minster accordingly through the manifested gifts being that all in Christ are given gifts. As they live, move and having their being through service they may edify the Senior Pastor (prayer, service, communication, etc.… as the Spirit Leads). Lastly, God's giftings do not have to align with our (the congregation) idea of the gifting the Senior Pastor should have! The crux of the matter is how will we (the congregation) respond, will we (the congregation) continue is service according to the Spirit or will we (the congregation) follow the leading of the prince of the air. If a congregation exercises the gifts of the Spirit entrusted to each member according to the leading of the Spirit. The congregation can be richly blessed, a healing place, a place of empowerment, a place having godly influence beyond Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. Who gives these gifts? The Holy Spirit!

How would you define the gift of prophecy? I define the gift of prophecy as the ability to “declare the divine will of God” under the influence/guidance of the Holy Spirit; to “speak forth” what thus say and/or said the Lord according to the Lord; to make known the truth of God according to His purpose for His purpose. The Forthtelling and/or Foretelling; either or under the guidance/anointing/leading of the Holy Spirit. Why do churches sometimes despise or prohibit prophecy? Lack of understanding, prejudices/biases, misunderstanding, spiritual abuse/proph-lying/administered carnally 1st Thessalonians 5:16-22 - Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesying. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. 1st Corinthians 14:29-33 … weigh carefully what is said… instructed and encouraged … “that all may learn, and all may be comforted” What guidelines does Paul give here and in 1st Corinthians 14 to keep prophecy in a congregation healthy? Prophecy according to God’s purpose!

Do you think there are modern-day apostles? Yes! If so, who might they be? Those whom God use in the power of the Spirit to plant, water and establish His church in our day until He deems the work to cease. If you don't believe there are modern-day apostles, identify some people who are doing some of the same things that the early apostles did. I do believe there are modern-day apostles! These modern-day apostles just as modern-day prophets have purpose in this dispensation just as the original 12 had purpose. The purpose is for the furtherance of the Gospel according to the LEADING of the Holy Spirit! If one were to review the Scripture it would be very difficult not to notice regardless of the translation, version of paraphrase there were others in addition to the original twelve who are explicitly referred to as apostles. After Christ ascension Paul is identified as an apostle. Those after Paul for the sake of not arguing can be deemed as “apostles of the throne“, “apostles of the Lamb” or “ascension-gift apostles.” Barnabas–Acts 14:14; Timothy and Silvanus/Silas – 1st Thessalonians 1:1 and 2:6; James, the half-brother of Jesus and leader of the Jerusalem church—Galatians 1:19; Apollos– Corinthians 4:6-9; Epaphroditus–Philippians 2:25. Etc… Just as there were others identified as apostles after the original 12, there are modern-day apostle in today’s clime and place. 1st Corinthians 12:28 & Ephesians 4:11 Apostle Apostle Prophet Prophet Teacher Teacher Healings, Miracles Evangelist Helps, Governments, Tongues Pastor There are souls being added to the Church daily such as should be saved, if there are adding’s to the Church (not simply the local assembly); it hold true there’s still a need for apostles and the other gifting and or acts of service.

What is the purpose of spiritual gifts according to 1st Corinthians 12:7? Given for the common good - “The evidence of the Spirit’s presence is given to each person for the common good of everyone.” Gifts are given to build up the body and strengthen God's people. According to Ephesians 4:11? Five spiritual gifts -- apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers - Spiritual gifts, especially the core gifts of apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher, are designed to (1) equip people for ministry, (2) build up the church, and ultimately (3) to bring God's people to maturity and unity (Ephesians 4:11-12). What happens when people don't employ spiritual gifts for their intended purpose? The body isn’t built up, edified, strengthened, effective, weakened, out of sequence. Through Peter God say, “As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God’s many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor].”

How does the Holy Spirit produce this fruit in our lives? As we encounter opportunities/incidents in our daily living and we adhere to the Spirit’s Leading; when we do not follow inclinations that differs from the Holy Spirit as we walk (live, move and have our being/ conduct or lives) the fruit is being produced. What theological term would you use to identify this process? Sanctification How can it be that a person who has been a "Christian" for years displays few or none of these fruits? The Holy Spirit doesn’t force us to obedience; He doesn’t force us to adhere to His leading/guidance. As we encounter opposition (circumstances, situations, events) we have a the choice to chose love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. The time(s) that we walk by the flesh/sight instead of faith or the time(s) we need to renew our thinking. Hence Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my dear ones, as you have always obeyed [my suggestions], so now, not only [with the enthusiasm you would show] in my presence but much more because I am absent, work out (cultivate, carry out to the goal, and fully complete) your own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling (self-distrust, with serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit the name of Christ). keep working out your deliverance with fear and trembling, = submission to the Lord. Philippians 2:12-13 (CEV) 12 My dear friends, you always obeyed when I was with you. Now that I am away, you should obey even more. So work with fear and trembling to discover what it really means to be saved. 13 God is working in you to make you willing and able to obey him. “Work out” means "to continually work to bring something to completion or fruition," We do this by actively pursuing obedience in the process of sanctification. “Trembling” —a healthy fear/a reverential fear having disregarded the Holy Spirit’s leading/walking along side through disobedience. Are they saved, but just immature? Salvation by Grace through Faith Alone Ephesians 2:8-9; he/she is saved as the abide in Christ. He/she through the process of Sanctification should cast the before the Lord acknowledging the weakness as he/she realize his/her witness id of higher purpose. In the process of Sanctification as the Holy Spirit heals/help if we’re in this state we need to ask Him to assist us with 2nd Corinthians 10:5 – demolishing arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. For the weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world. Instead, they have divine power to demolish strongholds (2nd Corinthians 10:4). What does James 2:17-19 say about this? James in a nut shell is saying our actions/our conduct/our behavior should align with our belief/faith. Is that too harsh? It's inspired Word from God, it's a reminder that our witness is of importance not only to ourselves; it also has the power of influence positively or negatively.

How does the Spirit enable us to resist the temptations of the flesh? The Spirit empowers us to resist temptation; the Spirit provides a way of escape, we have the power of choice to follow the Spirit’s leading and/or or own to live and behave accordingly. I agree 100% with the lesson’s/study’s response: “If” is a conditional word, making the sentence a conditional sentence and a powerful promise to Believers. IF you walk in the Spirit, THEN the impulses of the flesh won't find fulfillment and thus they lose their power. As we learn to walk with the Spirit as a way of life, we can break the hold that the flesh has had over our lives up to this point.” How does He restrain us? We are restrained as we hear/respond to His voice over our own, over the influence of the adversary. How does He enable us to break the hold the flesh has had over us? Amazingly, He doesn’t force us; He enables us to break the hold the of the flesh in the same manner as He does in our yielding unto Him, via the power of choice. His divine will is that we will abide in Him; in His permissive will, as we choose things contrary to His will there yet lies a chance that we will return to Him (repentance); just as Peter was converted there lies the opportunity for us as well.

What does it mean to "set the mind on the things of the flesh"? To be determined to fulfil my desires even if it doesn’t align with the desire of God. To purse earthly/nature desires instead of spiritual God appeasing desires. What is involved in "setting the mind on the things of the Spirit"? Yielding to The Spirit, inclining to receive His Guidance, His Word, His Rebuke, His Love; communication affectionally with Him, abiding with the focus that He approves and blesses. What does it mean to have your mind "stayed" on Jesus? He has priority, First Place. We are not to compartmentalize Him to worship service alone (within a worship facility); we are to follow His guidance us as we live move and have our being, shopping, working, socializing, parenting, in marriage, in friendships, etc.… We are to follow His guidance before the storm, during the storm and after the storm. How much of this requires will-power? It requires more of surrendering more so; however it cannot be ignored determination is also required. I have to decide to surrender, to follow, to allow my behavior to demonstrate my belief that I am His. James said something like this faith w/o works isn’t the best demonstration of faith in Christ. How much does the Spirit assist us? The Spirit never forsakes, and always assists as the Spirit deems. As for me it is, will I receive and/or accept His assistance. Because He gave us the power of choice I chose to press in or to move at my own accord. My desire is to press in, to press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Can this become a habit as we practice it? I believe the more we genuinely/sincerely yield to The Spirit’s leading the more we and being transformed, and our minds being renewed more so than continuing to walk unregenerate mind/persona apart from God.

What does Paul mean by "the sinful nature" or "the flesh"? Perhaps self-will - doing what one desires contrary to God/the Holy Spirit’s guidance, statues, commands, character. Is this ever eradicated? Eradicated – as I yield/adhere to the Holy Spirit, as I abide I become more like Christ. When I do not yield/adhere and/or abide in Christ I pursue my own selfish desires. On this side of heaven daily I must choose to glorify The Father more so than appease my desires that do not align with desires of The Father. Eradicated - not when I choose to appease my desires when they are contrary to the Holy - one day - the day when there will be no more sin, that's when total eradication occurs. Can there ever be victory over temptation? There are victories each time I glorify The Father, each time I overcome. There are victories as I am overcoming; I fight from victory more so than for victory as hold to the work of Christ on Calvary. In Him I am redeemed, in Him I have redemption. I believe the inspired words of John: Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. Taking a passage out of context - One day I shall be like Him; and as I dwell with Him on that day and after my sinful nature will be eradicated, I exist in complete victory for sin will no longer exist.

The Holy Spirit comes upon new believers in both Caesarea and Ephesus accompanied by speaking in tongues (and prophecy and praise) like on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:4). Does He always come like this initially? I do not believe He does What about the times when people are saved in the New Testament but tongues aren't mentioned? I believe the Holy Spirit come upon the Believer at conversion, if He deems the evidence of tongues is of needed, He will ordain the manifestation. Each occasion recorded in Scripture the manifestation was for purpose. Jesus is our example and we as Christians are to follow his example. He was filled with the Holy Spirit, yet there isn’t any scripture that tell us that spoke in divers, unknown/unlearned or other tongues. Some say that he didn’t speak in divers tongues because he was the last of the Old Testament prophets and that he was among the Jews where it was not necessary. I can’t find any scripture as to why he didn’t; however He is all power, I’m certain He could have if He had found it necessary. The argument could be that he was always around those who spoke one or three of the common languages of his time Aramaic, Greek or Hebrew. And that may well be true; yet and still He is our example to follow 1st Peter 2:21. Are they filled with the Spirit also? I believe they are filled, if they are not filled they do not belong to Him. "Romans 8:9, 1st John 4:13, Ephesians 3:16-17". Speaking in tongues is only one of the gifts the Holy Spirit gives. In 1st Corinthians 12, Romans 12 and Ephesians 4, Paul lists many gifts: Wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, prophesy, tongues, teaching, miracles, administration. All of these are the gifts the Spirit gives, but no one gift is given to all. In verse 11, Paul says the Holy Spirit decides what gift is best for each person. One important thing to remember, these gifts were given so that God's church (His Body) might be built up. None of the gifts were to be a source of spiritual pride. They were not for personal glory. In Acts 2, the gift of tongues was given to the disciples/apostles so that they might witness to people who were visiting Jerusalem who spoke many different languages. It says that disciples/apostles preached/testified/spoke; each person heard the message in his/her own language. What was the result? On that day, 3,000 people were added to the body of Christ, His church. Without a doubt these New Born / New Joins after leaving this Pentecost setting went back home and/or different areas witnessing / telling all that occurred at this Pentecost. Had the apostles / disciples spoke in tongues that no one could understand how many would have joined the body of Christ on that day? Many would have maintained the assertion they were drunk and perhaps not witness and/or received the blessing of blessings from The Lord At this Feast of Weeks or Pentecost, (Leviticus 23:16), fifty days after Jesus’ resurrection; oh what a great harvest of souls and the gift of the Holy Spirit for both Jew and Gentile, who would be brought into the kingdom of God during the Church Age. Matthew 16:18, On this rock (Matthew 16:16 “And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God”; believing in/on Jesus Christ, the Son of living God the Church was established on this day when God poured out His Holy Spirit and 3,000 Jews responded to Peter's great sermon and his first proclamation of the Gospel. God used Peter greatly in the as he proclaimed the Gospel on the day of Pentecost Acts 2:14-47. Who ultimately determines which spiritual gifts a person shall receive? Who determines who will receive what gift? 1st Corinthians 12:11, 18 [Romans 12:6; Matthew 25:15] The Holy Spirit not the believer, determines who is given what gift, but all His precious gifts are for the benefit of the church; none are bestowed merely to elevate an individual. The Apostle Paul compares the church to the human body (verses 12-17). Just as each part of the body has a specific function, so does each member of the body of Christ will serve in a specific capacity. The gift and ability that God gives me will complement those He gives my brethren. We are not all heads! We are not all tongues! We all are not fingers! Yet the unique gift of each member enables the church as a body to function efficiently.

What does it mean that Peter and the believers are "filled with the Holy Spirit" in these passages? I believe it means they were empowered to witness as the Spirit deemed appropriate at an appointed time for purpose as the Spirit deemed appropriate. Are they "re-filled"? It is my belief the filling is a one-time occurrence. However I also believe He can quicken our spirit man as we have the tendency to almost slip, to slip and/or misstep, sin, (Romans 8:11, Ephesians 2:1, Colossians 2:13, 1st Peter 3:18). It is of my belief according to the Scriptures upon receiving the Holy Spirit we should yield to His leading so that He can dwell/live within us fully and, in that sense, fill us (Romans 8:9, Ephesians 1:13-14); unfortunately, when we are not yielded unto Him, we can be grieved, (Ephesians 4:30), Him. In a sense His activity within us can be quenched, (1st Thessalonians 5:19), when we do not adhere to His leading/guidance. Sin hinders our being used by the Holy Spirit: Peter in Acts 10 ministered according to the leading of the Holy Spirit to Cornelius and his company; in Galatians 2:11-21 Peter grieves/quenches the Holy Spirit; the Holy Spirit prompts Paul into action. Our obedience to God's commands allows the Spirit freedom to work within us, however because we blessed with the power of choice there are times we miss the mark in and of our own choosing. When we sin, we should immediately confess it to God and renew our commitment to being Spirit-filled and Spirit-led. Is it possible for a believer to have many "fillings" of the Holy Spirit? In my opinion, no as in re-filling; however in the sense of quickening yes. Why? At conversion the Believer receives the Holy Spirit John 14:16, Ephesians 1:13-14 Why not? By grace in faith we receive; by faith/through faith He is manifested.

What happened at Pentecost that was different than anything that had happened in previous history? The filling of the Holy Spirit as promised What word analogies are used to describe this phenomenon? Baptize (Acts 1:5); Come upon (Acts 1:8); Filled (Acts 2:4); Pour out (Acts 2:17-18, 33); Receive a gift (Acts 2:38); Promise (Acts 2:39, cf. 2:33) “baptism, clothing, giving, receiving, sending, coming upon, filling, pouring out, gift, promise. These are essentially interchangeable in the New Testament and can speak of the same experience” Are these word analogies essentially used synonymously with others in Acts 2? I’d say yes What did the Jews from foreign lands hear and see? "Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.” In context (Acts 2:14-36), attendees at Pentecost saw and hear the fulfilling of the prophesied promise. They saw and heard filled recipients of the Holy Spirit testifying/declaring the truth of the Gospel in various languages, (Acts 2:6-12), each man understanding what the 120 filled recipients were saying. They saw a concluding demonstration that Jesus was the Messiah; they heard “thus said the Lord” that drew them near. How did Peter interpret what they heard and saw? He interpreted the prophecy given by Joel 2:28-29 had come to fruition; however his interpretation was in part.

Why does John need to remind us that we have "overcome" the world? In the context of 1st John chapter 4, John’s assure those at the hearing of his voice, to the readers of that day and today that they have overcome the false prophets he introduces in verse 1: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.” I think John encourages we fight the fight of fait from victory not for victory. Christ triumphantly overcame wherein stand in His victory; allow His guidance to be the guidance of adherence. In the context of this lesson, 1st John4:4, I think John encourage us as we live, move and have our being the Holy Spirit, He is as He said He is and as we abides He continues in power as He has said. Is the potential power of the Holy Spirit within you less than the power in the Apostle Paul? No! What might be the factors that seem to limit our sense of power? The beautiful gift that God blessed us with; the power of choice. Our ability to reason. I’d like to say many perhaps will enjoy Mt Carmel in likeness; however at the face of oppositions they fear there boldness diminish by comparison. The Spirit moved mightily upon Elijah as he yield in God’s perfect will; however while in God’s permissive will he yield to his own spirit. The prince of the air uses that same tactics as he has since being expelled from on high, he will attempt to use whatever means he came to distract/detach our devotion/faith and intimate relations with God, Christ, the Holy Spirit.

What does the Holy Spirit as a "seal of ownership" teach us? That we are of Christ; that we belong to Him. From the lesson: “the seal you and I bear in the spiritual world in which Satan is our enemy is the Holy Spirit of God, who identifies us as God's and protects us from evil. We are marked with God's mark, the Spirit, not the enemy's mark.” As we deny Self and our devotion is to exalt Christ, to exalt His will even though we ourselves are being sanctified (made complete) we demonstrate who we belong. We do so being: Agents/Ambassadors Change The Situation – Ministers/Servants of Reconciliation (Serving) We do so lifting : Adoration. Community. Theology. Service. – (J-O-Y) Loving Jesus first, serving others, and you yourself eat the living Word, drink the living Water as you serve. (Dying to Self) We do so in conversation/Prayer: Adoration – “Praise be to God!” - Psalms 68:35 Confession – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just, and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” -1st John 1:9 Thanksgiving – Always “glorify him with thanksgiving” - Psalms 69:30 Supplication – “Make your requests known to God.” - Philippians 4:6 (Staying plug into the Source honoring; get back in stride in His grace blamelessly; glorify Him; (continue communing/continue open communication). What does the Spirit as a "down payment" teach us? It teaches me The pledge, the promise from God is good today, tomorrow and what’s to come as I live move and have my being in the faith of Christ. 2nd Corinthians 1:22 Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. 2nd Corinthians 5:5 Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. When is the full payment made in this analogy? The payment is made full at God’s appointed time: 1st John 2:28 1st John 3:2; Colossians 3:4 What does the Spirit as an "anointing" teach us? It teaches the anointing of the Holy Spirit sets us apart for His service, from the lesson: “The Spirit upon us is an anointing, appointing and empowering us for service (2nd Corinthians 1:21b; Isaiah 61:1a; Acts 10:38a; 1st John 20, 27)”

What are the implications of having access through the Spirit to the "mind of Christ"? The implications, that is for me, just as Job and his friends knew of the thoughts of God it wasn’t until God brought to illumination His thoughts in His perfect timing (Job 42:5). As I submit to the Spirit’s leading I have the greatest opportunity to appertain that which the Apostle Paul prayed: “Ephesians 1:17 ….. “gives me a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him”. Wherein I can know His thoughts by means His Spirit; more importantly as I adhere to His Will I move in His Will. Philippians 2:5 - Let this same attitude and purpose and [humble] mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility:] (John 5:19, 30; John 8:28 - So Jesus added, When you have lifted up the Son of Man [on the cross], you will realize (know, understand) that I am He [for Whom you look] and that I do nothing of Myself (of My own accord or on My own authority), but I say [exactly] what My Father has taught Me.) Therefore, as He leads my hopes are to follow according to His leading intimately. How does this Holy Spirit connection explain spiritual gifts such as prophecy, teaching, healing, etc.? Having the mind of Christ means affords me the best opportunity to understand God’s plan as he purpose in me in service unto Him; it affords me the best opportunity walk in the likeness of the Beatitudes in addition to share His desire that none should parish via the perspective of Christ perspective of humility and obedience, compassion, and prayerful dependence on God. Thereby when I speak (prophecy), when I teach (rightly divide His Word), and extend the hand/heart of compassion (healing) I do so in the Will of God and not in a carnal and/or sin natured manner. As for me having the mind of Christ begin with surrender; promoting and/or ending with intimacy, intimate relationship. Within this connecting whatever the gifting that God desires of me (prophecy, teaching, healing, etc.…) as I live move and have my being, I love like Christ, my motives mirrors Christ’s motives. I extend mercy, grace, love, and guidance like Christ; ministering as He would have me to do so in the seasons, as needed in that season!

Do people who aren't Christians have Christ living within them? No, they have a spirit but he/she doesn’t have The Spirit of Christ dwelling within. Hence as stated in the lesson, “Every human being has a human spirit, that which is the essence of that person's physical life (James 2:26) and the root of their personhood”. In what Person do Christ and the Father make their home in us? The Holy Spirit What should you do to make them feel "at home" in you? I should -Surrender/yield, Love, Trust and Obey the guidance/teaching/Word of God. How is the Home Analogy like the Temple Analogy? The Holy Spirit dwells within How might it differ? Perhaps in the context in which both passages are given: House Analogy – “The Spirit lives in us as a person dwells or resides in a house (Romans 8:9-11; John 14:23)” - as the Believer yields to the leading of the Holy Spirit’s counsel, he/she demonstrates loving The Lord thy God ….; he/she demonstrates adherence; he/she demonstrates His indwelling presence. Born anew - being sanctified, each Believer has within themselves a principle higher and more powerful than his/her on natural desire/carnal desire/the flesh. Temple Analogy – “The Spirit lives within our bodies as God does within his temple (1st Corinthians 6:19-20)” – as the Believer reverence the Holy Spirit’s presence, he/she demonstrates honoring the Lords vessel; he/she demonstrates His glory; he/she demonstrates His indwelling presence. Because our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, God Himself lives within us. Meaning we afforded to us the strength, the power over the sins of the flesh living within us. How does the Spirit living within you affect your holiness of life? Affect/move/influence holiness in my life - In every instance of my life I believe the Spirit is speaking (within the four walls {church}, outside the four wall, in the vineyard {workplace}, during my leisure time, during consecrated time, in the midst of havoc/chaos, in simple and complex moments, etc.…), when I am attentive, when I am quite and my hearing is sensitive to hear His voice I adhere to His will. As I abide holiness in my life service the Lord and others, when I do not abide holiness eludes my life during those moments, sadly influencing others adversely. Your witness to others? As I die to my own ungodly desires and adhere to The Spirit I demonstrate His Will wherein the sanctity my living has the potential to plant or water according to His Will. My acts/actions/behavior has a greater opportunity to bless: If/as I yield to His Leading - He brings to remembrance His teaching (Beatitudes). John 14:26 -But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit — the Father will send Him in My name — will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you” If/as I abide in Him, I’ll be cognizant of His personal witness (WWJD). John 15:26 - When the Counselor comes, the One I will send to you from the Father — the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father — He will testify about Me. If/as I adhere to His Guidance - He convicts me of sin (repentance /forgiveness). John 16:8 - When He comes, He will convict the world about sin, righteousness, and judgment” If/as I am quite/rest at His feet - He guides me to/thru truth (walk in the abundance of Him). John 16:13 - When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak whatever He hears. He will also declare to you what is to come. Your spiritual power? My spiritual power lies in surrender to Him according to His Will.

What does Jesus' reference to "the wind" teach us about people who have been born of the Spirit? 1st John 4:13; 1st John 5:10; Galatians 4:6 - Spirit work in and by him that others, though they see not the principle, can easily discern the change produced. “People who have been born of the Spirit, Jesus is saying, are motivated and moved by The Spirit, and that His doing is beyond the recipient physical efforts in and of themselves.” Just as the wind blows, the wind itself cannot be physically seen, however it can be easily discerned the blowing of the wind. So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God - In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God - And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and His name is called The Word of God.” The Spirit breathes where it wills and we will recognize His manifestation by His voice; Jesus spoke thus said the Lord. In every instance of our lives the Spirit is speaking (within the four walls, outside the four wall, in the vineyard, during our leisure time as well as our consecrated time, in the midst of havoc/chaos etc.…), our hearing need the be sensitive to hear His voice. Just as Elijah heard the white noise, in the midst of the noise he heard. The wind will blow as it will but we can hear His voice when He speaks as we move from self to surrender. He who receives by faith the communications of the Spirit is born of the Spirit.

What does it mean to be "born of water and the Spirit"? I’m sure there are millions of opinions in regard to the question above and in its likeness elsewhere. I’d like to suggest: 2nd Corinthians 5:15-17 - And He died for all, so that all those who live might live no longer to and for themselves, but to and for Him Who died and was raised again for their sake. Consequently, from now on we estimate and regard no one from a [purely] human point of view [in terms of natural standards of value]. [No] even though we once did estimate Christ from a human viewpoint and as a man, yet now [we have such knowledge of Him that] we know Him no longer [in terms of the flesh]. Therefore, if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come! Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Born of the water = natural = in/with the knowledge we have; and the Spirit = surrender of self-will and unto the Lord. “Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews – A Pharisee” knew the Torah (Written Torah and the Mitzvah -Oral Torah). Jesus was using a teaching technique He which He often used by comparing a spiritual truth with a physical reality. Nicodemus (was spiritually thirsty and hungry; he knew what he knew) he did not understand the concept/belief of spiritual birth, but he could understand the concept of ceremonial cleansing in correlation to anew and/or physical birth so that was where Jesus took him. I believe “born of water” refers to spiritual cleansing; Nicodemus being a Pharisee would have naturally understood born of water that way. Throughout the Torah/Old Testament, water is used figuratively of spiritual cleansing, (Numbers 19:17–19; King David - Psalm 51:2, 7, and Ezekiel 36:25 – “ Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleanness; and from all your idols will I cleanse you”) [Hebrews 9:10] Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews – a Pharisee – a teacher of the law, would surely have been familiar with the concept of physical water representing spiritual purification. Thorough faith in/of Christ as he surrender unto Christ he could experience the second birth. [John 3:4 --- How can a man be born when he is old? ---- Just as in the natural baby contributes no effort to the birth process—the work is done by the mother—so it is with spiritual birth. The Believer is the recipients of God’s grace as He gives us new birth through His Spirit (Ephesians 2:8–9). What do you think "water" refers to? John 3:4 - Nicodemus saith unto Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?” In my opinion, Nicodemus with the knowledge he possessed, upon hearing unless one is born again initially contrived physical birth. Hence many often refer “born of water” to physical birth. I think “born of water” refers to spiritual cleansing. Water in the context here, I don’t think refers to born of water immersion baptism. (Having said that I am not against water baptism, I simply do not think that’s what’s meant here, the issue here is more of a faith issue, not public acknowledgement/demonstration. I do not say that to belittle water baptism I fully believe there’s much more entailed!) Why have you come to this conclusion? Water is also used in the New testament as a figure of the new birth. Regeneration is called a “washing” brought about by the Holy Spirit through the Word of God at the moment of salvation (Titus 3:5; Ephesians 5:26). Believers are “washed . . . sanctified . . . justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God” (1st Corinthians 6:11). The “washing” Paul speaks of is a spiritual one (Hebrews 10:22). How, then, would you paraphrase "born of water and the Spirit" to best bring out the full meaning? 1st Corinthians 15:46 - The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual. Jesus was using a teaching technique He often employed by comparing a spiritual truth with a physical reality. “Born of water” and “born of the Spirit” are different ways of saying the same thing, Jesus is saying “born of water and the Spirit” describe different aspects of the same spiritual birth, or of what it means to be “born again” once metaphorically and once literally. To see/enter His kingdom a person does so by God’s grace by/through faith. The water here can be referred to as the Lessons for Disciples # 7 note suggest: born anew by your own repentance and humbling yourself before God ("born of water," that is, a baptism of repentance) and the Holy Spirit's divine regenerative work within you ("born of the Spirit"). You can't enter the Kingdom of God by your own effort. You must surrender yourself to God! Only God can bring about this new creation in you (John 3:5). Psalms 105:19 - Until the time that his word came: the word of the LORD tried him. Whichever perspective is correct, the Bible informs: person once-born has physical life; a person twice-born has eternal life; its appointed unto men once to die, but there’s a second death. Hebrews 9:27 - And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: Revelation 20:6 - Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ and shall reign with him a thousand years. Revelation 2:11, 20:14, Revelation 21:8 the second death.

In Jesus' teaching on streams of living water from within, whom does He invite to drink? He invite all that are willing and receive: "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.' By this he meant the Spirit... " (John 7:37-39a) "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters...." (Isaiah 55:1a) "Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.' 39 By this He meant the Spirit...." (John 7:38-39a) "Whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." (John 4:14) What does He promise to believers? The Holy Spirit John 7:39 - But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. (NKJV) To what degree has a spring of living water been fulfilled in your life? Hmm, how can I say and/or explain, sometimes I fail Him, sometimes I do not feel unworthy; nonetheless I’m more than GRATEFUL He’s yet merciful! He quenches my thirst as I adhere/yield unto Him! He quenches my thirst as I live a transforming life. I suppose I could say the Work and Person of the Spirit, (i.e. redeeming, renewing, quickening, guiding/directing, teaching, revealing, reminding, empowering, anointing, sanctifying, etc.…), is evident in my life as a SURRENDER my will and align to His.