Works of the Holy Spirit 3.23.2025 , The above podcast was pre-recorded during a meeting of Grace Christian Church. We meet in person and stream services every Sunday at 10:30 AM EST in Manalapan, New Jersey.
Works of the Holy Spirit
Introduction
Salvation is a gift from God through faith in Christ, not earned by good works (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, after salvation, God prepares good works for believers to follow. Our first work is to believe in Christ, and all other divine works follow as we walk in faith.
The Holy Spirit’s Role
God’s plan is to conform believers into the image of Christ. This transformation, called sanctification, is a lifelong process led by the Holy Spirit. It involves having the mind of Christ, living like Him, and doing God’s works.
Three Main Works of the Holy Spirit:
1. Revelation of Christ’s Eternal Life
The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin and reveals the need for eternal life through belief in Christ (John 16:7-9). Forgiveness of sins and eternal life are synonymous, and only the Holy Spirit can convince an unbeliever of their need for Christ. Believers assist by sharing the Gospel but rely on the Spirit for results.
2. Manifestation of Christ’s Life
The Holy Spirit reveals truths about God, Christ, and the believer’s identity in Him. As believers respond in faith, they become more like Christ. This is a gradual process where Christ’s life is expressed through them. Abiding in Christ is key to bearing fruit, as He is the source of all spiritual life (John 15:4-5).
3. Elimination of Self-Life
Before salvation, people rely on themselves, forming patterns of self-dependence (flesh). The Holy Spirit works to eliminate these patterns and replace them with Christ-dependence. When believers resist, God may use trials to expose self-reliance and lead them to trust in Him (2 Corinthians 1:8-10). This process, though difficult, produces lasting spiritual growth.
Conclusion
The Holy Spirit progressively works in believers to:
•Reveal the need for eternal life.
•Manifest Christ’s life through them.
•Eliminate self-life and establish dependence on Christ.
This ongoing work conforms believers to the image of Christ, bringing glory to God and enabling them to do His prepared works.
