The spirit is a central concept in the teachings of Jesus. Understanding what Jesus said about the spirit is key to understanding his message and mission. This article will examine the requirements Jesus gave for the spirit, the role and work of the spirit, and the nature of the spirit. With insightful quotes from the gospels, this article will provide a comprehensive look at the spirit according to Jesus.
The Requirements for the Spirit
Jesus taught that there are certain requirements for receiving and walking in the power of the spirit. These requirements help us align our lives to God’s standards so that his spirit can flow through us. Here are some key requirements Jesus gave for the spirit:
– Faith – In John 7:38-39, Jesus said “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” Then John explains “By this he meant the Spirit.” Faith is required for the spirit to flow from within.
– Asking – Jesus taught we must ask the Father for the spirit. In Luke 11:13 he said, “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
– Obedience – Jesus linked obedience to love and the indwelling of the spirit. In John 14:15-17 he told his disciples, “If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever – the Spirit of truth.”
– Repentance – In Acts 2:38, Peter summarizes the gospel message by saying “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
– Purity – Jesus blesses the “pure in heart” saying they will “see God.” (Matthew 5:8). Since the spirit reveals and manifests God, purity is required to receive the fullness of the spirit.
The Work and Role of the Spirit
What exactly does the spirit do in the lives of believers? Jesus described diverse roles and works the spirit accomplishes.
The Spirit reveals truth – In John 16:13, Jesus called the spirit “the Spirit of truth” who will guide believers into all truth. The spirit enables us to discern truth from error and understand Scripture.
The Spirit testifies about Jesus – Jesus said the spirit “will testify about me” (John 15:26). The spirit enlightens people’s hearts about who Jesus is and draws people to salvation.
The Spirit convicts the world of sin – The spirit has a unique role in convincing unbelievers of the seriousness of sin and their need to repent (John 16:8).
The Spirit teaches believers – Jesus promised the spirit would teach his followers “all things” and remind them of his words (John 14:26). The spirit enables believers to grow in wisdom and maturity.
The Spirit comforts believers – Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the “Comforter” (John 14:16 KJV). The spirit brings encouragement, hope, and strength in difficult times.
The Spirit empowers believers – Through the spirit, Jesus said believers would do greater works than even he had done in his earthly ministry (John 14:12). The spirit enables ministry.
The Spirit produces spiritual fruit – As we walk in step with the spirit, the fruit of “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” grows in our lives (Galatians 5:22).
The Spirit gifts believers – There are diversities of spiritual gifts distributed by the Holy Spirit to believers including prophecy, teaching, healing, and tongues (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).
| Work of the Spirit | Scripture |
|---|---|
| Reveals truth | John 16:13 |
| Testifies about Jesus | John 15:26 |
| Convicts the world of sin | John 16:8 |
| Teaches believers | John 14:26 |
| Comforts believers | John 14:16 |
| Empowers believers | John 14:12 |
| Produces spiritual fruit | Galatians 5:22 |
| Gifts believers | 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 |
The Nature of the Spirit
In addition to the spirit’s work, Jesus’ teachings also give insight into the nature and character of the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit is a distinct person, not just a force. Jesus personified the Holy Spirit by using personal pronouns (John 14:16-17). Jesus also associated the Holy Spirit with the Father and Son (Matthew 28:19). This indicates the Holy Spirit is a distinct divine person, not just an impersonal force.
The Spirit is the ultimate teacher and helper. In John 14:26, Jesus called the Holy Spirit “the Helper” and “the Teacher.” These personal titles emphasize the spirit’s relational and active attributes in guiding believers.
The Spirit already dwelled with the disciples in Jesus. Jesus told his followers “the Spirit lives with you and will be in you” (John 14:17). This indicates the spirit was already present with them through Jesus and would continue to dwell in them after Jesus’ ascension.
The Spirit proceeds from the Father. Jesus described the spirit as “the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father” (John 15:26). This reveals the Father as the source who sends out the spirit.
The Spirit is given by the Father at Jesus’ request. Jesus said, “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you” (John 14:16). Jesus’ statements show cooperation between the Father and Son in sending the spirit.
The Spirit reveals what belongs to Jesus. Jesus said the spirit “will receive from me what he will make known to you” (John 16:15). This indicates the spirit discloses and glorifies Christ.
The Spirit cannot be controlled or manipulated. In John 3:8, Jesus likened the spirit’s work to wind which “blows wherever it pleases” beyond human control. This affirms the spirit’s divine sovereignty.
Jesus’ rich teachings about the spirit give incredible insight into this third person of the Trinity. As we embrace Jesus’ words, we can walk more fully in the spirit’s empowering presence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the spirit according to Jesus has clear requirements, diverse works and roles, and a divine yet relational nature. The spirit reveals truth, testifies about Jesus, convicts the world of sin, teaches believers, comforts believers, empowers believers for ministry, produces spiritual fruit, and distributes gifts. Jesus characterized the spirit as a distinct personal and sovereign entity proceeding from the Father to glorify the Son. As we apply Jesus’ teachings, we can align our lives to receive the fullness of the spirit. Experiencing the spirit was central to Jesus’ own mission and ministry. Therefore, grasping Jesus’ perspective is crucial for every believer desiring to live the spirit-filled life.