Topical Encyclopedia
The Holy Spirit, as the third person of the Trinity, plays a vital role in guiding and instructing ministers in their preaching and teaching. This divine guidance is evident throughout the New Testament, where the Holy Spirit actively participates in the dissemination of the Gospel and the edification of the Church.
Biblical Instances of Instruction1.
Acts 13:2-4: In the early Church, the Holy Spirit was instrumental in setting apart individuals for specific ministries. "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 not only calls Barnabas and Saul (Paul) but also sends them forth, indicating His active role in directing their mission.
2.
Acts 16:6-7: The Holy Spirit also provides specific guidance on where not to preach, demonstrating His sovereign control over the spread of the Gospel. "Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them." This passage highlights the Spirit's authority in determining the timing and location of ministry efforts.
3.
1 Corinthians 2:13: The Holy Spirit instructs ministers in the content of their message, ensuring that it aligns with divine wisdom rather than human understanding. "And this is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words." The Spirit's role is to impart the wisdom of God, enabling ministers to convey spiritual truths effectively.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in PreachingThe Holy Spirit's involvement in preaching is multifaceted. He not only calls and sends ministers but also equips them with the necessary wisdom and understanding to communicate God's message. This divine instruction ensures that the preaching is not merely a human endeavor but a Spirit-led proclamation of the Gospel.
Dependence on the Holy SpiritMinisters are encouraged to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance in their preaching. This dependence is crucial for ensuring that their message remains faithful to the teachings of Scripture and relevant to the needs of their audience. The Holy Spirit's instruction is a reminder that effective ministry is rooted in divine empowerment rather than human effort.
ConclusionThe Holy Spirit's role in instructing ministers what to preach underscores His active presence and guidance in the life of the Church. Through His direction, the message of the Gospel continues to be proclaimed with power and authority, fulfilling the mission of the Church to make disciples of all nations.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Corinthians 2:13Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teaches, but which the Holy Ghost teaches; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
What is the outpouring of the Holy Spirit? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about the Holy Spirit (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat is "Holy Blood, Holy Grail"? | GotQuestions.orgHoly: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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