In what ways can we recognize the Holy Spirit's work in our community? Kingdom Power Confirming the Message “ But if I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.” (Matthew 12:28) • Jesus points to visible deliverance as proof that God’s reign is breaking in. • When bondage is broken—addictions shattered, demonic oppression expelled—the Spirit is on the move (Luke 4:18; Acts 10:38). • Look for unmistakable, God-only explanations behind radical freedom. Transformed Lives and Growing Holiness • New creations surface when the Spirit works (2 Corinthians 5:17). • The familiar “fruit list” (Galatians 5:22-23) becomes a community snapshot rather than a memory verse. • Patterns: bitterness replaced by forgiveness, impurity by purity, apathy by zeal. Conviction That Leads to Repentance • “ When He comes, He will convict the world of sin …” (John 16:8). • Genuine sorrow over sin—followed by concrete change—signals the Spirit’s spotlight. • Public confessions, reconciled relationships, restitution offered: Spirit fingerprints. Unity That Defies Natural Boundaries • The Spirit “eagerly” maintains the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). • Diverse ages, races, and backgrounds worshiping side by side (Acts 2:44-47). • Gossip dies, mutual submission thrives—evidence of supernatural glue. Bold Witness and Effective Evangelism • “You will receive power … and you will be My witnesses” (Acts 1:8). • Timid believers suddenly speaking Christ openly (Acts 4:31). • Conversions that no slick program could manufacture. Manifestation of Spiritual Gifts • “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Teaching that penetrates, mercy that heals, prophecy that uncovers hearts (1 Corinthians 14:25). • Gifts operate in biblical order, pointing to Jesus rather than performers. Love Expressed in Sacrificial Service • “God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit” (Romans 5:5). • Meals cooked, debts paid, foster children welcomed—needs met before committees form (1 John 3:17). Truth Guarded and Proclaimed • “He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). • Sound doctrine valued, Scripture opened with reverence (2 Timothy 3:16). • Error spotted quickly; truth embraced joyfully. Peace and Joy Amid Suffering • “My peace I give to you” (John 14:27). • Believers singing in prison cells (Acts 16:25). • Steadfast calm under pressure that confounds onlookers. Growing Hunger for Worship and Prayer • “Pray in the Spirit at all times” (Ephesians 6:18). • Extended prayer gatherings, spontaneous praise, hearts lifted without coercion (Jude 20). • Ordinary schedules rearranged around meeting with God. Watch for these markers. Where they gather, the Holy Spirit is actively drawing the community under the gracious rule of the King. |
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