Supernatural (Week 1) - Holy Spirit 101
Summary:
"Holy Spirit 101" discusses the importance of embracing the supernatural in our faith. He addresses the disconnect many Christians have with the Holy Spirit and highlights the impact it has on our spiritual growth and joy. We explore the nature of the Holy Spirit as a distinct person and explain His role in creation and in our lives. We concluded by calling for a revival of belief in the Holy Spirit's presence and power to bring about a renewed understanding and experience of the supernatural among believers.
Discussion Questions:
Why do you think many Christians struggle to believe in the Holy Spirit as a living and active force?
Brad mentions that according to Barna research, a significant majority of Christians believe in God and Jesus but struggle to believe in the Holy Spirit as a living and active force.
Can you think of a time when you struggled with the concept of the Holy Spirit or are indifferent about it, and what might have caused that struggle?
How does the imbalance in beliefs about the Holy Spirit within the church affect Christian life?
Brad identifies the imbalance in beliefs about the Holy Spirit as a 'supernatural problem' within the church and claims that not embracing the supernatural means missing out on the fullness of the Christian life.
In your own spiritual journey, have you experienced a lack of hope, joy, or power due to the absence of a solid understanding of the Holy Spirit? If so, how did it affect your walk with God?
Based on the sermon, what are the key aspects that define the nature of the Holy Spirit?
Brad explains the Holy Spirit as a distinct person, quotes the Nicene Creed and the Athanasian Creed to emphasize the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit being all 100% God, and being the creative force of God.
How does understanding the Holy Spirit as a distinct person change your perspective or approach to engaging with the Holy Spirit in your daily life?
What does Romans 8:26 teach us about the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives?
In the sermon, Romans 8:26 is referenced, describing the Holy Spirit's role in helping us in our weakness and interceding for us.
When have you experienced the Holy Spirit's help or intercession in your life, and how did it impact your faith?
How can we apply the biblical account of the Holy Spirit in creation to our understanding and experience of the supernatural?
Brad highlighted that the Holy Spirit is a separate mode of existence from matter and material, and yet the spiritual and supernatural are woven into the fabric of creation based on Genesis 1:1-2.
How can you personally embrace the idea of the supernatural being a crucial aspect of your faith and relationship with God?
Scripture:
Ephesians 6:12, Romans 8:26, Genesis 1:1-2, Romans 1:19-20, Romans 8:14-17, Ephesians 1:11-14
