What role does the Holy Spirit play in confirming our relationship with God? Anchoring Truth in 1 John 4:13 “By this we know that we remain in Him, and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit.” (1 John 4:13) • “We know” — certainty, not guesswork. • “Remain in Him” — ongoing relationship, not a fleeting moment. • “He has given” — gracious gift, not earned. • “His Spirit” — the decisive evidence that God lives in us and we live in Him. His Presence Testifies Within Us • Romans 8:16: “The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” – Inner witness replaces doubt with settled confidence. • Galatians 4:6: “And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, ‘Abba, Father!’” – The Spirit moves us to address God intimately; that cry confirms family status. Sealed and Secure • Ephesians 1:13-14: “having heard and believed … you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance.” – A seal marks ownership and protects contents. – A pledge guarantees full redemption ahead. • 2 Corinthians 1:22: God “placed His seal on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a pledge of what is to come.” – Divine down payment: the Spirit ensures the future inheritance is certain. Guiding Into Intimacy • John 14:16-17: the Spirit is “another Advocate … the Spirit of truth … He abides with you and will be in you.” – Continuous companionship keeps relationship vibrant. • 1 Corinthians 2:12: “We have … the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us.” – Insight into grace deepens assurance and joy. Everyday Evidence of His Indwelling • Increasing love for God’s people (1 John 3:24). • Conviction of sin and pull toward holiness (John 16:8). • Growing delight in Scripture and prayer. • Spiritual fruit—love, joy, peace, and the rest—ripening in daily life (Galatians 5:22-23). Living in the Spirit’s Assurance • Thank Him often for His inner witness; gratitude strengthens awareness. • Obey His promptings; obedience clears the channel for assurance to flow. • Stay in the Word; the Spirit uses Scripture to echo His testimony. • Fellowship with other believers; their Spirit-borne witness encourages yours. The Holy Spirit doesn’t merely suggest we belong to God—He certifies it, seals it, and lets us taste the coming inheritance, so that confidence grows and love overflows. |
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