What role does the Holy Spirit play in speaking through believers, per Matthew 10:20?

Matthew 10:20 in Focus

“For it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” (Matthew 10:20)

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Context of the Promise

- Jesus sends the Twelve, warning they will face courts and councils (Matthew 10:17-18).

- They must not worry about their defense; God Himself will supply their words (Matthew 10:19-20).

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What the Holy Spirit Does

- Supplies the very words

• Matthew 10:20; Mark 13:11; Luke 12:11-12.

- Speaks with divine authority

• Acts 4:8; 1 Corinthians 2:13.

- Gives clarity and boldness

• Acts 4:31; 2 Timothy 1:7.

- Guarantees doctrinal accuracy

• John 16:13; 1 John 2:27.

- Convicts listeners

• Acts 2:37; John 16:8.

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Believers’ Part

- Yield tongue and heart (Romans 6:13).

- Trust, refusing anxiety (Matthew 10:19).

- Stay filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).

- Speak Scripture the Spirit recalls (John 14:26).

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Practical Implications Today

- Gospel witness under pressure—courts, workplaces, campuses.

- Everyday conversations directed by the Spirit (Colossians 3:17).

- Teaching and preaching that rely on power, not rhetoric (1 Corinthians 2:1-5).

- Encouragement and counsel that build up (1 Corinthians 14:3).

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Summary

The Holy Spirit personally indwells believers and, in moments of testimony, literally speaks through them, imparting words, authority, boldness, and truth that glorify the Father and exalt Christ.