How does Romans 15:19 demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit today? Romans 15:19 in Focus “by the power of signs and wonders, and by the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ.” Seeing the Spirit’s Power in Paul’s Ministry • The gospel advanced from Jerusalem to Illyricum—over 1,400 miles—because the Spirit empowered Paul’s every step. • “Signs and wonders” authenticated the message; the miracles were the Spirit’s visible fingerprints. • Paul’s confidence rested not in strategy or charisma but in supernatural enablement, echoing Zechariah 4:6: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts.” Unpacking “Signs and Wonders” • Physical healings (Acts 19:11–12). • Demonic deliverance (Acts 16:18). • Resurrection power (Acts 20:9–12). • Hebrews 2:4 affirms God “testified…by signs, wonders, various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit.” These manifestations proved Christ’s lordship then—and remind us that the Spirit has not grown weaker today. “By the Power of the Spirit of God” – The Source • 1 Corinthians 2:4: Paul’s preaching carried “a demonstration of the Spirit’s power.” • 1 Thessalonians 1:5: the gospel arrived “not only in words but also in power, in the Holy Spirit.” • Romans 8:11: the Spirit who raised Jesus now lives in believers; resurrection power remains active. A Pattern for Today The same Holy Spirit still: • Empowers bold witness (Acts 1:8). • Confirms the gospel through spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7–11). • Transforms lives—the greatest miracle of all (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Produces Christ-like character (Galatians 5:22–23). • Unites diverse believers into one mission (Ephesians 4:3–4). Connecting Scriptures • Acts 1:8—Power to testify. • Ephesians 3:20—“according to His power that is at work within us.” • Colossians 1:29—Labor “with all His energy, which so powerfully works in me.” • 1 Peter 4:11—Serve “with the strength God provides.” Practical Application • Seek continual filling (Ephesians 5:18) to experience present-tense power. • Expect God to confirm His word—whether through miracles, transformed hearts, or unmistakable providence. • Rely on the Spirit, not technique; preach and live the gospel confidently. • Stretch your “Jerusalem to Illyricum” boundary—trust the Spirit to open new territories for Christ. Romans 15:19 is not a museum piece; it is a living template. The Holy Spirit who empowered Paul still empowers every believer to proclaim, demonstrate, and live out the gospel today. |
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