How does 1 Thessalonians 1:5 define the role of the Holy Spirit in evangelism? Setting the Scene “because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with great conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake.” (1 Thessalonians 1:5) Key Observations • “not only in word” – Evangelism is more than speech. • “in power” – There is supernatural effectiveness. • “in the Holy Spirit” – The Person who supplies that power. • “with great conviction” – Inner assurance produced by the Spirit. • “what kind of men we proved to be” – Spirit-empowered lives back the message. What the Holy Spirit Brings to Evangelism 1. Power to penetrate hearts • Acts 1:8: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses.” • 1 Corinthians 2:4 – 5: Paul’s preaching was “not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power.” 2. Divine authentication of the gospel • Hebrews 2:4: God testifies to the message “by signs, wonders, and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit.” • Romans 15:18-19: Paul speaks of preaching “by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God.” 3. Conviction of sin and truth • John 16:8: “When He comes, He will convict the world regarding sin and righteousness and judgment.” • Acts 2:37: After Peter’s Spirit-filled sermon, listeners were “pierced to the heart.” 4. Assurance in the messenger • 2 Timothy 1:7: The Spirit gives “power, love, and self-control,” replacing fear. • 1 John 4:13: “By this we know that we remain in Him…by the Spirit He has given us.” 5. Transformation that validates the message • Galatians 5:22-23: The fruit of the Spirit showcases a changed life. • 2 Corinthians 3:18: Believers are “being transformed…from glory to glory,” a living witness. Living Applications • Dependence, not performance: Rely on the Spirit’s power rather than polished arguments. • Prayerful preparation: Seek the Spirit’s filling before, during, and after sharing the gospel (Ephesians 6:18-19). • Authentic lifestyle: Let Spirit-produced character reinforce your words. • Expect conviction: Trust that He alone pierces hearts; your task is faithful proclamation. • Confidence in results: Success is measured by obedience; the Spirit handles the harvest (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). Encouragement for Today When you share Christ, you never go alone. The same Holy Spirit who empowered Paul in Thessalonica empowers you now—adding divine power, authenticating truth, and producing conviction that turns listeners into followers of Jesus. |
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