Topical Bible: the Personality of Holy Spirit: He Appoints and Commissions Ministers

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Holy Spirit, as the third person of the Holy Trinity, plays a vital role in the life and governance of the Church. One of His significant functions is the appointment and commissioning of ministers. This aspect of the Holy Spirit's personality underscores His active involvement in the leadership and direction of the Church, ensuring that those who serve are divinely chosen and equipped for their roles.

Biblical Evidence of the Holy Spirit's Role in Appointing Ministers

The New Testament provides several instances where the Holy Spirit is directly involved in the selection and commissioning of church leaders. In the Book of Acts, we see a clear example of this divine appointment. Acts 13:2-4 states, "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off. The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus." Here, the Holy Spirit explicitly calls Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for a specific mission, demonstrating His authority and initiative in commissioning ministers.

The Holy Spirit's Guidance in Church Leadership

The Holy Spirit's involvement is not limited to the initial appointment but extends to guiding the leaders in their ministry. In Acts 20:28 , Paul addresses the Ephesian elders, saying, "Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood." This passage highlights that the Holy Spirit not only appoints leaders but also entrusts them with the responsibility of shepherding the Church, emphasizing His ongoing role in their ministry.

The Holy Spirit's Empowerment for Ministry

The Holy Spirit also empowers those He appoints, equipping them with the necessary gifts and abilities to fulfill their calling. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 , Paul explains the distribution of spiritual gifts: "There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different ministries, but the same Lord. There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." The passage continues to list various gifts, all distributed by the Holy Spirit, who "apportions them to each one as He determines." This empowerment is crucial for the effective functioning of the Church and the fulfillment of its mission.

The Holy Spirit's Sovereignty in Ministry Appointments

The Holy Spirit's role in appointing and commissioning ministers reflects His sovereignty and wisdom. He knows the needs of the Church and selects individuals who are best suited to meet those needs. This divine selection process ensures that the Church is led by those who are not only called but also equipped and empowered by God Himself.

In summary, the Holy Spirit's personality is vividly expressed through His active role in appointing and commissioning ministers. His involvement is a testament to His divine authority, guidance, and empowerment, ensuring that the Church is led according to God's will and purpose.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 48:16
Come you near to me, hear you this; I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, there am I: and now the Lord GOD, and his Spirit, has sent me.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 13:2
As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 20:28
Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood.
Torrey's Topical Textbook