Additional “Spirit” Verses in the Gospel Accounts
(This is Appendix “A” from Essay #4)
KINDLE VERSION
Text | “Spirit” Reference | Comments |
Matthew 1:18 | “with child from the Holy Spirit” | The first two references to the Holy Spirit in the New Testament point to His work in the creation of the body of Jesus. His work in these verses is clearly a direct expression of the divine power and is in line with what is seen in the rest of the gospel accounts. |
Matthew 1:20 | “conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit” | See comments above. |
Matthew 28:19 | “in the name of . . . the Holy Spirit” | The preaching of the gospel and man’s response to it in faith and baptism is connected to all three members of the Godhead. Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit are all involved in the revelation and the preaching of the gospel. When people respond to the message contained in the gospel, they are responding to the authority of and entering into a relationship with the Godhead, including the the Holy Spirit. As we have seen, His role in the coming of the gospel was in giving man the prophetic authority, abilities, and utterances needed to reveal and confirm that message to man. |
Luke 2:40 | “waxed strong in spirit” (KJV) | The KJV states that the young Jesus grew strong in “spirit.” Other translations leave out the word “spirit” in this context. This verse is likely not a direct reference to the Holy Spirit. However, even in this context, notice how the young Jesus is said to be “filled with wisdom” and has the grace of God upon him. This language will also be found in several other places in the New Testament in referencing the prophetic empowerment of the apostles and early Christians. |
John 6:63 | “Spirit gives life” | The second half of the verse explains how the Spirit gives: “The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” While most translations capitalize the first “Spirit” in the verse, it is likely that this verse is not a direct reference to the Holy Spirit. The spirit in this verse is contrasted against the flesh. The acceptance of the “hard” message Jesus was delivering in John 6 (see v. 60) would only be accomplished by those who are able to discern them in a spiritual manner. Human wisdom would not aide the hearers in that endeavor. Coming to a proper understanding of the person of Jesus could only come by revelation – through the life-giving words Jesus delivered. If this passage is a reference to the Holy Spirit, then His work is directly tied to the words spoken by Jesus. In which case, His work in giving life to man was in harmony with His prophetic work. His work was accomplished through the revelation of an inspired prophet. |
Jonathan Jenkins
The Gospel’s Two-Part Invitation
However, both actors are using the same approach in providing that offer. The verse states that both actors are “saying” the invitation of obey the Gospel. Both are “saying” the gospel to the lost. Both are using words to appeal to the heart of those needing to find the “new Jerusalem.”
What Must I Do to be Saved?
All Digital Bible Study graphics are free to use if left unedited.
Instrumental Music and Expediency
What does the audience hear in the debate? It hears inconsistency. Our argument sounds contrived. It contradicts their own experience. The singing they have done for their entire life has been helped by instruments of music. Now, we are compelled to convince them that their perception contradicts reality. It is a tough sell. The progressive has placed us in exactly the right position to sway the undecided in our congregations.
