Philippians1.2

Q11.4 (Ephesians 6:18a; Jude 20; Romans 8:26-27) In the list of elements of the Full Armor of God, where does the Spirit show himself? Praying in the Spirit and with the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. It is with those scriptures that will come to mind , that will both protect you from the enemy and then allow you to be a blessing to others in need. * Why is Spirit-directed prayer so important for the believer? * How have you experienced this is your life? Praying in the Spirit allows us to know things that we would not otherwise know. We can miss the mark in prayer sometimes but the Holy Spirit knows exactly what we should pray. When we do so we are blessed as well as those we have prayed for. I have been awoken at times and even felt that urge to pray when at work. There is a certain feeling , a knowing, that comes over you as the Holy Spirit nudges. It took a while in the beginning to know for sure but then i remember young Samuel when God first called him at that young age, his answer was "Hineni .... Lord here i am " and that has been my guideline ever since. "Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests." (Ephesians 6:18a) "But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit." (Jude 20) "26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will." (Romans 8:26-27) * ( Pastor Ralph, Many thanks for this beautiful refreshing study of the Holy Spirit. )

Q11.3 How is singing worship linked to being filled with the Spirit? * How is singing worship linked to joy? (Ephesians 5:18-20) 'Sing unto the Lord a new song' and do it daily for we have much to be thankful for, even on the worse of days. Sing out like JOB when at his worst he boasted in the Lord. His heart and ours should be abundtly overflowing with praise. Even for those of us that have not been blessed with a sweet voice , God hears all our Praises as a "sweet incense into His nostrills". I am sure HE blesses us proportionately to our praise. We could sing and dance like David did , where he probably appeared drunk, although with pure joy. The Joy of the Lord is our strenght and when we give ourselves to worship, with body and voice , the Holy Spirit fills and refills us over and over again. "18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. 19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 5:18-20)

Q11.2 Why is character change directly related to time deliberately spent in God's presence? Like taking your vitamins in the morning, every morning, will replenish and nourish your body and what it needs, so it is with the precious time spent in the presence of the Lord. The more time , the more the transition of seeing Christ grow in you. Your heart is for the things HE wants for thats where His daily voice directs us. * Have you noticed a change in the "degree of glory" you're experiencing now compared to a few years ago? * Why or why not? (2 Corinthians 3:18) Actually for me the "degree of Glory " was stronger before i married. Once in a while i get to glimpse it here and there, and those times are precious and sweet. Although i would to be there daily, life still manages to get in the way of that quality time i once had. I once had the ability to spend four plus hours in prayer , today that is few and far between. I still pray for that hunger to return and i know someday soon it will. "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)

Q11.1 (John 15:1-8) Why do we need to abide in Jesus? * The fruit from branches connected to a vine is the grape. What is the nature of the fruit that comes from being connected to Jesus? Imitation is said to be the sincerest form of flattery, BUT in this case growing more and more Christ-like is our true goal. Staying connected to Jesus through the Holy Spirit is the pathway to victory , Kingdom victory. Abiding in Jesus , being His shadow as were His disciples, is the blessing we seek and GOD requires of us. We 'bear fruit' as we are intimately connected with the "VINE", longing to become His friend . Jesus said " 8 This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." (John 15:7-8, ) . * Is it accurate to define fruit as “souls saved”? * What is the danger in this definition? The 'fruit of our labors' may be bringing many others to know to have a relationship with Christ , but many miss the mark by thinking that's all there is. Being Christs hands and feet and mouth as we go about allows Christ to live through us. The bearing of the Fruit of the Spirit shows our maturity as we cling to the VINE. Their are many who do GOD's work but Jesus says 'go away, for i never knew you' , for they are not nurished from the Vine directly. Their heart may be right but their connection to Christ is not number one, if at all. The True Vine John 15:1-8 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. 5 '"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

Q10.4 (1 Samuel 3:1-10) Why is Samuel's servant attitude such an important preparation for hearing God's voice? A Servant is someone who puts another's interest above their own. Be it a slave or Bond slave ( free ) or a worker that's a 'company man' , the common thread of being willing to do whatever it takes is "Key". When a Christian is "Sold-out " to Jesus , as a new Believer or a Veteran , their ears are open to hear and ready to serve. Samuel grew up with that attitude of heart , and the LORD noticed and honored him , and Samuel responded most properly to that call. That was the beginning of a long and active relationship with the LORD. * Why is surrender to Jesus such an important element of discipleship ? Love overrides pride. When you are in Love you are willing to do the most unusual things. There is no need to do for 'self' nor much of a thought along those lines either. When one wishes to attach oneself to another they are willing to change their ways ( a little or a lot ). Seeing the Wisdom of our LORD and having the desire to cling to Him , to become His disciple , requires that one surrenders the things of this world that interfere or prevent one from truly hearing His Voice and seeing His heart. Resistance on the littlest issue will hinder your walk with Him , surrender brings with it many riches and responsibilities.. We want to be in a position to be ever ready to say " Hineni " Lord here i am " 1 Samuel 3:1-10 Samuel’s First Prophecy 3 Now the boy Samuel ministered to the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was rare in those days; there was no widespread revelation. 2 And it came to pass at that time, while Eli was lying down in his place, and when his eyes had begun to grow so dim that he could not see, 3 and before the lamp of God went out in the Tabernacle of the Lord where the ark of God was, and while Samuel was lying down, 4 that the Lord called Samuel. And he answered, “Here I am!” ( Hineni ) 5 So he ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” And he said, “I did not call; lie down again.” And he went and lay down. 6 Then the Lord called yet again, “Samuel!” So Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” He answered, “I did not call, my son; lie down again.” 7 (Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, nor was the word of the Lord yet revealed to him.) 8 And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. So he arose and went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you did call me.” Then Eli perceived that the Lord had called the boy. 9 Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down; and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say, ‘Speak, Lord, for Your servant hears.’ ” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10 Now the Lord came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant hears.”

Q10.3 How would you differentiate between (1) the Spirit's voice and (2) the Spirit nudge or prompting? As a Believer our ears become more intune the voice of the Spirit, much like a mother can tell the sound of her child crying in the midst of multiple children crying, our spiritual ear gets fine tuned to the still Quiet voice of the HOLY SPIRIT. The thoughts we hear are clear and precise. But when we are not focused He has to nudge us and its more of a feeling to do "something". At that point it is best to call upon the Spirit for more exact directions, and not proceed by what we 'think' it means . * What can you do to sensitize yourself to His voice and promptings? Refocusing and refreshing our minds on the things of God when we realize we have strayed or wondered. When the things of this world seem to be more important or nothings going right it is a good sign that we have strayed. Find a closet or a 'phone booth' if needed but get away and get with the Holy Spirit and 'listen' .... listen good. !

Q10.2 (1 Corinthians 2:9-11, 16) What connects us to the mind of Christ? Free Will , it is our choice to spend quality time with our Creator. We pray in the Spirit and wait upon the Lord to guide us through the Holy Spirit . Being 'Born Again' the Holy Spirit resides within the Believer; He is our 'link' , He has the mind of Christ and He is our Comforter . BUT , He is a Gentleman, though He may nudge us from time to time, He does not force Himself upon us ..... but waits for the believer to call upon Him in prayer. * Do you have a regular Quiet Time? In the beginning i would awake at 3am most every morning and finally realized God was nudging me to join Him in prayer. I would pray and listen and scriptures locations would be floating in my mind ( often places i had not been to in a while ). This started a good habit for many years. Then after a few hours i would sleep and be very refreshed when i awoke as well as enlightened. These days i awake about 5 or 6 and spend the time studying and listening . This quality time allows me to bless my family every morning with a "Fruitful Spirit-filled" presence. There are days however when this does not happened as planned and that day tends to be more troubling by the enemy , as if i left a door open and let him in. * What could you do to make it more meaningful? Keeping the door closed to the enemy and the flesh is the best way to make it more meaningful. Having a prayer partner to rely on when it is hard to focus and then get back in control to find that quality time and even press in harder. " Taking every thought captive to Christ , putting on that 'Helmet of Salvation' 24/7 . Calling on the Holy Spirit often. 1 Corinthians 2:9-11 , 16 9 " But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” 10 But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. 16 For “who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ."

Q10.1 (Mark 1:33-39) What pattern do you see emerging in Jesus' prayer life? Jesus was and is a Team player. Jesus sort refuge and direction in His daily prayer life. On many occasions in scripture this is evidenced where we see Him looking to be alone in the flesh yet together in the Spirit. * Why do you think he spends Quiet Time with the Father before the day begins? There is a 'WAR' going on. A Spiritual war where Jesus is in the enemy territory and constant communications with the 'Home base' is vital. Spending time with 'the Father ' is like a direct line to the General who gives out the daily orders to His army. Jesus knows the Father only has the best in mind for Him yet the mission comes first and the Father General is in charge of 'when' things happen as well as where and with whom the interaction should be with. * How does this prepare him for his ministry? This constant , daily, communications with the Father assures Him that the mission, His Ministry , will go exactly as was planned before he embarked from Heaven. * Why does Jesus minster through the power of the Spirit instead of in his own power? Part of Jesus mission assignment was to train up recruits to continue on after He departed. Doing things on His own would lead His Disciples to have false pride to think they also could accomplish GOD's work in the Flesh. By 'Submitting to the Voice and power of the Holy Spirit' , this allowed Jesus to do the miracle things he did, as well as go through all the suffering unto death as He did. He lead by example that all things would be possible to those working for the Kingdom of GOD; by praying to the Father and listening to the Holy Spirit and obeying the directions given them , seeking GOD daily for best results.

Q9.4 If people are always promoting themselves and pointing to how God is using them, what does that say about them? About their sense of self-worth? About their maturity? Their realism? Their humility? (1 Peter 4:10-11) I am reminded of Simon the sorcerer who, seeing the Disciples do such great things in Jesus name , asked if he could 'buy' such a gifting from them. He already had his fame established but wanted more. He wanted something else that he did not currently have. Unfortunately for him, and many people today as well, they look at it from the 'flesh' point of view. Also sadly for him, he sort the glory of the gift and not the true giver of the gift, GOD. So today we still see people using a GOD given gift and boasting about it yet the glory they keep for themselves and humility goes by the wayside. They are their own god and their need for the Holy Spirit is unthought of. They may even seem to pray to the Holy Spirit but their spirit says 'hey I got this'. A true maturity , a true renewing of the mind through the Holy Spirit has not been accomplished. * and if perchance they once truly had it and backslid , well as GOD offered Cain another chance to redeem himself , we too are always welcomed back into GOD's grace through true humility and repentance or as GOD said to Cain ' sin lies at the door and its desire is for you '. In this case the enemy will use 'PRIDE ' ..... so beware..... and heed the advice given to Simon : Acts 8:21 "You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.” * What spiritual gifts has God given you, and how are you using them to his glory? Teaching and helps are the two main gifts given to me to date. I have also seen God heal people through my praying for them at times but that is not the norm. Lately teaching and writing about the things of GOD are what currently drive my heart . "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." (1 Peter 4:10-11)

Q9.3 What are lessons do you learn from verse 11? GOD does not make junk ! Each and every one of us have a purpose in GOD's economy. That being said GOD will also supply all our needs according to HIS riches in Christ Jesus through the HOLY SPIRIT. Each gets at least one 'spiritual gift'....... and just as with the story of the talents , GOD tests us to see our worthiness and will reward us proportionately to our faithfulness. Regardless of where we are put or what we are given to do the HOLY SPIRIT will always supply the appropriate gift or gifts to each person as needed. * What is the role of the Holy Spirit in spiritual gifts? (1 Corinthians 12:11) The HOLY SPIRIT is liken unto The General of the Army of GOD, we sometimes may think we know what GOD wants us to do and individually may not see the 'Big Picture" that GOD desires. The Holy Spirit sees all and fills the needs accordingly , for the benefit of the entire body , not just locally but world wide. None of us knows the ripple effect of our lives and actions BUT GOD. Discerning the Holy Spirit , daily, is the key to victory in every Christians life. True Teamwork !!! "All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines." (1 Corinthians 12:11)

Q9.2 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? (1 Corinthians 12:9) Jesus' Ministry started after He walked away from the devil's temptations in the dessert ( Matt 4:17 ) Matt 4:17 "From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matt 4:23 "And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. 24 Then His fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torments, and those who were demon-possessed, epileptics, and paralytics; and He healed them. Matt 8 : 1 "When Jesus had ( finished teaching the Beatitudes ) come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed Him. 2 And behold, a leper came and worshiped Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” 3 Then Jesus put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” Immediately his leprosy was cleansed. Matt 8 :7 And Jesus said to him, “I will come and heal him.” ( concerning the Centurions servant ); { after hearing the Centurion's Faith } 8:13 Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you.” And his servant was healed that same hour. Matt 8 : 16 "When evening had come, they brought to Him many who were demon-possessed. And He cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick, 17 that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: “He Himself took our infirmities And bore our sicknesses.” Matt 9:35 "then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. 36 But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were [weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. 37 Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. 38 Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” * Preaching and teaching are only part of these miracles , sometimes we need more , as with the paralyzed boy in Matt 17 : Matt 17: 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” 20 So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. 21 However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” * There are many more examples. After leading by example He commissioned the Twelve disciples For the Apostles it all started here ( Luke :1 -6 ) LUKE 9 :1 "Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. 2 He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. 3 And He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither staffs nor bag nor bread nor money; and do not have two tunics apiece. 4 “Whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. 5 And whoever will not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” 6 So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere." * Where in Paul’s ministry? Acts 14: 8 And in Lystra a certain man without strength in his feet was sitting, a cripple from his mother’s womb, who had never walked. 9 This man heard Paul speaking. Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed, 10 said with a loud voice, “Stand up straight on your feet!” And he leaped and walked. Acts 14: 21 "And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra , Iconium, and Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.” Acts 14: 14 "Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul. 15 And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” So she persuaded us. * ( Spiritual healing ) Acts 14: 16 ( Demon Possessed ) "Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling. 17 This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.” 18 And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour. Acts 16: 29 ( Philippian Jailer saved ) " Then he called for a light, ran in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 And he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved ? ” 31 So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he and all his family were baptized. 34 Now when he had brought them into his house, he set food before them; and he rejoiced, having believed in God with all his household. Acts 19:11 "Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, 12 so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them. Acts 20 :7 - 12 * ( Paul preached long, boy falls and dies, Paul resurrected the boy from death ) Acts 28 : 8 *( After shipwreck at Malta ) "And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. * In Peter’s ministry? Acts 2 :14 * ( Peter preaches Joel's prophecy at Pentecost and 3000 are saved ) Acts 3:6 " Then Peter said, ( TO THE BLIND MAN ) “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” 7 And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. Acts 4:8-12 "Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers and elders of the people, if we are on trial today for a benefit done to a sick man, as to how this man has been made well, let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead--by this name this man stands here before you in good health." Acts 9:32-35 " (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. Acts 9:36-41 - ( Tabitha arises ) "And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 42 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. * In Philip’s ministry? ( Acts 8: 5- 8 ) Acts 8:5 "Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. 6 And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city." >>>>>> AND NOW IT IS OUR TURN TO CONTINUE THIS MINISTRY .... THROUGH THE POWER OF THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT !! <<<<<<< Quote

Q9.1 Is it legitimate to use Jesus as our example in the use of spiritual gifts? * Or was he so different than we are that we can't pattern our ministry after his example? ( * Where do you see the gift of knowledge in the Old Testament? * In the New Testament? ) Jesus' entire life was an example to us; the main example to me is that HE 'waited' for the appropriate time to receive and use the power of the Holy Spirit 'to do ' God's work. As He ministered to people He did so 'as one' with the Holy Spirit and not of His own accord ( flesh only ). We need to remember to do the same and always seek the Holy Spirit and work within the gifting He blesses us with at that moment. HE may only use an individual once , as He did with Amos in the Old Covenant , to warn God's people ; or multiple times as with Elijah the Prophet ; or as in the New Covenant with Ananias when he ministered to Saul after his Damascus experience. Jesus demonstrated different gifts of the Spirit at various times and some individuals today may also be blessed to have the Holy Spirit empower them with various gifts , as He wishes and as they stay submitted.

Q8.4 How could a person have the spiritual gift of pastor or teacher without having an official position in a church? (Ephesians 4:11) Pastoring comes from a caring heart and teaching from a desire to bless others with wisdom, both are unselfish in nature. When inspired by the Holy Spirit people will just do it and the Holy Spirit will guide other people to them. Many churches have very qualifies teachers doing home Bible studies for instance , their reward is to see the fruit grow in others ....Titles are nice but not important. * What must a church do if its "senior pastor" doesn't have the spiritual gift of pastor? Who gives these gifts? Pray for that pastor to more filled with the anointing of the Holy Spirit and to be given fresh wisdom to guide the flock properly. There are occasionally positions filled more for authority than for hands on ministry *( as when a congregation is just way to big , an overseer is needed and not a pastor only ). That being said all Pastors should be getting their strength , Joy , Wisdom , Guidance and caring heart from the HOLY SPIRIT. The Bible also helps us to recognize a good Pastor / leader. ( see I Timothy 3:2-7) A Pastor : " must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil." (I Timothy 3:2-7)

Q8.3 How would you define the gift of prophecy? (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22; 1 Corinthians 14) Prophecy is a Divine Word from God , when given by the Holy Spirit, it blesses and guides and redirects the life of the people it is meant for. * Why do churches sometimes despise or prohibit prophecy? People have not changed, for even in the days of our Lord prophecy was despised. Evil does not want to hear what is right and man's flesh , when evil filled, will still today reject a Word from God. Even Christians not flowing with the Spirit of God will today reject prophecy. Sometimes pride gets in the way, they figure if they can not hear from God then no one can. Sad but true. Nowhere in the scriptures does it say that the Holy Spirit will stop talking through people , only that in the last days prophecy will be completed in all . It also says that God will pour out His Spirit on all His sons and daughters in these last days. ( Joel 2:28,29 ) Joel 2:28 “Then, after doing all those things, I will pour out my Spirit upon all people, Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions. 29 In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on servants—men and women alike. * What guidelines does Paul give here and in 1 Corinthians 14 to keep prophecy in a congregation healthy? 1 Cor 14:1 "Let love be your highest goal! But you should also desire the special abilities the Spirit gives—especially the ability to prophesy." The Holy Spirit is all about LOVE. He tells them to be open to receive from the Holy Spirit His precious gifts, prophecy being the chief gift. He tells them to stay pure and focus on what is good . When prophets come test them but do not stifle the Holy Spirit when a true Word is given. " 19 Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. 20 Do not scoff at prophecies,21 but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. 22 Stay away from every kind of evil." 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22

Q8.2 Do you think there are modern-day apostles? If so, who might they be? 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. (Ephesians 4:11a) The Apostles are the "Generals" of the Army of the LORD. I do not believe Christ would leave His army with leaders. Every generation has been blessed with Godly Leaders , the generals of their day, to lead and guide and often regroup and redirect the army of God. The early disciples were the First Apostles to mobilize God's army of believers . Yes they were trained by Jesus when they were His Disciples, then the Holy Spirit empowered them to bring it all together. The Holy Spirit has not changed and neither has the role of an Apostle. I believe that there are Apostles, ( Generals ), today scattered about this planet and doing great things for the Lord, however a true disciple would not be cherishing that title but would humbly be about doing what GOD called that person to do, build and strengthen the body of Christ. "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." (Ephesians 4:11-13, NIV)

Q8.1 What is the purpose of spiritual gifts according to 1 Corinthians 12:7? According to Ephesians 4:11? Spiritual Gifts are to be used to bless the those that surround you, be it family , friends , work or play and your church body; the common good are the people GOD wants to reach through you. Also the different ministries cited are for the training up of others to continue the Works of God through His people, in order for us to be like minded and Christ-like and mature in our Faith. "Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." (1 Corinthians 12:7, NIV) "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." (Ephesians 4:11-13, NIV) * What happens when people don’t employ spiritual gifts for their intended purpose? God's gifts are given to build up God's Kingdom of Believers ; Not using the God given gifts is a sort of rebellion and lack of maturity and selfishness. The Blessings that could be passed through you are stopped and God's people are not strengthened and may actually be weakened without that talent the LORD has placed in you for such a time and place as you are in.

Q4. (Galatians 5:22-23) How does the Holy Spirit produce this fruit in our lives? "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23) Just like when a person joins the military, there is a season of change, starting with the clothing they are given new military uniforms which help them to assimilate to their new surroundings; then comes the hair cut and so on. As we take off the old life and put on the New life in the Spirit , His Fruit becomes more evident in our lives. * What theological term would you use to identify this process? Just as in the military they have formations so it is in the Spirit as well. With this Spiritual Formation or santification we can see the changes as the fruit starts to blossom. * How can it be that a person who has been a “Christian” for years displays few or none of these fruits? Spending time in "church" is not the same as Spending time in the Spirit. In just one month walking in the Spirit , people saw the fruitful changes in me more than the 15 years prior that i spent going to church. * Are they saved, but just immature? When people say they have accepted Christ Jesus as their Lord , baptized or not, only God knows their heart. If they have gone through the motions of being baptized and have learned of and pray for the Holy Spirit to fill them , they have made the commitment to God, now its only a matter of the time they spend with the Holy Spirit to grow. The 'hungrier' they are the faster the change in their lives that show that commitment. They are saved through Christ's covering but they grow in the Spirit. * What does James 2:17-19 say about this? Is that too harsh? James presents the obvious, as one walks and grows in the Spirit good deeds ( that Glorify the LORD ) will follow the Believer.... As they walk in their Faith other then just talking about it. Sometimes Truth hurts. 17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.” You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God.[a] Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. James 2:17-19

Q3. (Galatians 5:16-18) How does the Spirit enable us to resist the temptations of the flesh? How does He restrain us? The 'LAW' gave us God's do's and dont's and it was left up to the individual to walk the walk; today we have the Blessing of having the Holy Spirit within us. He is a constant reminder of God's LAW so our conscience is always aware BUT so much more in that He also gives us the strength to have restrain and to resist the things against God's best for us, things that have no place in the Kingdom of Heaven. "17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law." (Galatians 5:17-18) How does he enable us to break the hold the flesh has had over us? "Through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death." (Romans 8:2) . With this freedom comes a 'free will" to choose and the more time spent with the Holy Spirit the easier it is to freely choose God's best for our lives. If and when temptation may trip us up we are blessed to know that we can be able to freely repent and be restored , without guilt or shame.... this freedom gives us that extra strength knowing that God's love is greater ... it is His love for us that truly strengthens us , and it is the Holy Spirit that always guides us back...... we are never alone anymore.

Q2. (Romans 8:1-9; Isaiah 26:3) What does it mean to “set the mind on the things of the flesh”? When setting the mind on the things of the Flesh , simply put - they leave God out - and do what they want. The "sinful nature" draws them away. "Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires." (Romans 8:5) What is involved in “setting the mind on the things of the Spirit”? Realizing that it was what Christ did for us really sets us free, and allows the Holy Spirit to teach us further how to live God's way. "You ... are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him." (Romans 8:9, ESV) What does it mean to have your mind “stayed” on Jesus? By taking every thought captive and letting the Spirit of Christ guide your life. "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." (Isaiah 26:3, ESV) How much of this requires will-power? Love transcends will-power. When we realize the love God has for us individually, that overwhelming love will indeed reduce our will-power for sinful things and keep us reaching out for the things of God and eventually God Himself. How much does the Spirit assist us? Can this become a habit as we practice it? As we surrender and welcome the Holy Spirit to guide us it gets easier day by day , even habit forming as we enjoy the peace and love that flows within us. "... Us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit." (Romans 8:4, ESV)

Q1. (Romans 7: 7-25) What does Paul means by “the sinful nature” or “the flesh” (ESV, KJV)? Temptation , Sin , and failure. Tools of the Enemy of GOD. 'SIN' is anything that can put a tear in the heart of our GOD. LOVE and only the best is what our Creator has and wants for us. When we desire things other than GOD's perfect plan for us that " sinful nature " , which we inherited from Adam, starts to drive us; and it drives us further and further from the heart of GOD. When we stray off course and veer away from that Godly path , our loving Father gave us 'sign posts' to guide us back which we call ' the LAW' , His Law. Without His Law we would never know we were off course and on the road to destruction. The 'flesh' gets distracted so easily and it becomes a struggle only when we realize GOD's way is actually better for us and we try to get back on course. Is this ever eradicated? Once off course, we find it an ever 'on-going ' struggle with the flesh, however GOD has a plan for each of us and a road to recovery. Can there be victory over temptation? Absolutely ! The more we come to know and Love our Father in heaven and invite His Spirit to dwell within us and be our guide back to our rightful place with Him , the stronger we get. Remember our " God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13). God opened that door of redemption " because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. {Romans 8:2) . Victory is a daily journey back to the Father, our father of Love who picks us up whenever we fall .... if we let HIM. "As we learn to yield more and more to the Holy Spirit, we are freed from our slavery to the 'sinful nature.' ".

Q3. (Acts 10-11); Acts 19:1-17) 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? The Speaking of Tongues is a special gift of the Holy Spirit. This gift is not always blessed upon new believers at first. To have or have not Tongues , we are all the same in GOD's eye. GOD blesses all HIS children with different gifts and Speaking in Tongues is just that - a special gift. I believe any hungry heart will receive this gift if their intention is to be a blessing to the body of Christ. Tongues as a gift is a prayer language with GOD to reach places our human mind can not phantom , but our spirit man can. What about the times when people are saved in the New Testament but tongues aren’t mentioned? Are they filled with the Spirit also? There were many miracles and things Yeshua ( Jesus ) did that were not recorded , for instance it is never mentioned of Jesus speaking in tongues, but that does not say HE did not; however if it did then all believers would seek it as proof. The real proof of the Holy Spirit living within a person is their walk and lifestyle. If and when needed speaking in tongues as a prayer language will be granted by God to all and any who seek it. Prayer is the number one thing on God's heart for us , it is our special time with HIM and that pleases HIM the most. Ask in prayer, not what GOD can do for you , ask what you can do for GOD to strengthen the church, and if tongues is needed GOD will provide. 1 Cor 14: 12"Since you are so eager to have the special abilities the Spirit gives, seek those that will strengthen the whole church. 13 So anyone who speaks in tongues should pray also for the ability to interpret what has been said. 14 For if I pray in tongues, my spirit is praying, but I don’t understand what I am saying."

Q2. (Acts 4:8,31) What does it mean that Peter and the believers are “filled with the Holy Spirit” in these passages? A special boldness was needed , a special filling was granted. God through the Holy Spirit will never desert us but fill us when we seek HIM. When they prayed they reminded God of HIS Word , they had a special request and GOD answered their special need. Their Faith opened the Fireplace of their hearts to be refilled again. Acts 4:29 "And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word, 30 Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” Are they “re-filled” Is itpossible for a believer to have many “fillings” of the Holy Spirit? Why or why not? A Fireplace in a home is always there sometimes a small simmering flame with latent power, then when needed more wood or coal is added as needed for each situation. When the Holy Spirit takes residence in a person that Fireplace is HIS home, when HE needs to, that fireplace within the true believer will heat up appropriately . When we pray that fireplace glows brighter , when the situations arise and are prayers are even desperate, the the Holy Spirit will refill that Fireplace even to the point of a 'Mountain top' experience. "After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly." (Acts 4:31) "We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him." (Acts 5:32)

Q1. (Acts 2) What happened at Pentecost that was different than anything that had happened in previous history? The Church of Christ was birth. What started at Calvary on the Cross, when the Temple curtain was "split in two" , was completed 50 days later at Pentecost. Access to God the Father was now available to any who believed at that point; at Pentecost the actual ability was now "permanently" given to any who believe by having been baptized with the Holy Spirit individually. "Exalted to the right hand of God, [Jesus] has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear." (Acts 2:33) What word analogies are used to describe this phenomenon? There are six word analogies : 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); these six words describe what happened at Pentecost to those who waited upon the LORD faithfully and received the Holy Spirit. Are these word analogies essentially used synonymously with others in Acts 2? Yes. "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off -- for all whom the Lord our God will call." (Acts 2:38-39) What did the Jews from foreign lands hear and see? "All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them." (Acts 2:4) . The faithful Jews from every nation got to hear , in their own language , the Good News of what Christ had done for them and they could see the evidence that God was working through those men from the Upper room. How did Peter interpret what they heard and saw? (Acts 2:14-21) When the crowd thought that the disciples were drunk , Peter simply quoted an Old Covenant promise that God had spoken of , things HE would do differently in the Last Days; now 3000 more would see and believe and also receive the Holy Spirit. "In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy." (Acts 2:17-18, quoting Joel 2:28-29)

Q4. (1 John 4:4) Why does John need to remind us that we have “overcome” the world? The world back then as it is today, has evil lurking at every turn. We need to be reminded that when trouble shows its ugly head that we are overcomers by the power of the Holy Spirit within us. Is the potential power of the Holy Spirit within you less than the power in the Apostle Paul. What might be the factors that seem to limit our sense of power? The Holy Spirit being the same from the beginning does not change but what does change is our awareness of just how great He is , esp within us. With our tongues ,ready in season and out , we are armed with the Holy Scriptures of Truth , powered by the Holy Spirit within us. Our only limitation is our ourselves. God has done His part, He is watching as we do ours. As our Faith and Trust in HIM increases so proportionately does that sense of power, Amen to that. "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4)

Q3. (2 Corinthians 1:21-23) What does the Holy Spirit as a “seal ownership” teach us? From the time of the Crucifixion of Christ , those covered by the Blood of the Lamb have been bought with a price. The Holy Spirit comes and sets a seal upon those God has chosen and those that have surrendered to Him. God owns us and we are redeemed from the hands of the Evil one. What does the Spirit as a “down payment” teach us? Temptations may still cross our paths but we have been given a ''down payment '' of protection and grace that covers us on our journey through the Kingdom of God. When is the full payment made in this analogy? When our earthly journey is finished and we meet Christ face to face, in all His Glory, we will then be given the full payment , a permanent status with the Lord. What does the Spirit as an “anointing” teach us? GOD loves us, as we are, and has chosen us, blessed us with the protection of the HOLY SPIRIT to guide us on our journey. "21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, 22 set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come." (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).