Attributes of The Holy Spirit

Attributes of the Holy Spirit focused text: John 14:16-17.

V16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; v17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

Introduction: Attributes of The Holy Spirit

Firstly, when talking about the attributes of the Holy Spirit, it is important to know that the Holy Spirit is a Person, not merely a force, influence, or an “it.” He is the third member of the Trinity, possessing distinct personality traits.

Every believer should recognize the reality and power of the Holy Spirit, and thus allow Him to take over their lives.

Without His indwelling presence, living a victorious Christian life, experiencing divine strength, and understanding God's word in depth becomes exceedingly difficult.

The Personality of the Holy Spirit

He Possesses a Will

The Holy Spirit exercises decision-making authority. As stated in 1 Corinthians 12:11

"But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills."

This underscores His sovereign will in distributing spiritual gifts.

He Has Intellect

The Holy Spirit possesses intellect, enabling Him to teach, direct, search, and understand. Nehemiah 9:20 affirms:

"You also gave Your good Spirit to instruct them, And did not withhold Your manna from their mouth, And gave them water for their thirst."

Furthermore, Romans 8:27 reveals:

"Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God."

He Has Accurate Knowledge

The Holy Spirit possesses comprehensive knowledge, making Him a reliable teacher. 1 Corinthians 2:9-12 elucidates:

“But as it is written: ‘Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.’ But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.”

This passage highlights the Spirit's role in revealing divine truths to believers.

He Has the Ability to Effect Change

The Holy Spirit empowers believers, thus enabling transformation. Acts 1:8 declares:

"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me…"

This empowerment was evident in the lives of Peter and Paul, who, through the Holy Spirit, became bold witnesses for Christ.

He Has the Capacity for Love

One of the names of the Holy Spirit is the Comforter, thus the Holy Spirit symbolizes and embodies love. Romans 5:5 states:

"Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who was given to us."

Additionally, Romans 15:30 appeals:

"Now I beg you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in prayers to God for me."

He Can Be Grieved

Believers are cautioned not to grieve the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 4:30 warns:

"And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption."

This indicates that the Holy Spirit has emotions and can be affected by our actions.

He Speaks

The Holy Spirit communicates with believers. Revelation 2:7 proclaims:

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."

Moreover, Galatians 4:6 reveals:

"And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!'"

Romans 8:26 further explains:

“Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses… the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”

John 15:26 also adds:

"But when the Helper comes… He will testify of Me."

Divine Attributes of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit shares the following divine attributes with the Father and the Son:

• Eternal: Hebrews 9:14
• Omnipresent: Psalm 139:7-10
• Omnipotent: Luke 1:35
• Omniscient: 1 Corinthians 2:10-11; John 14:26; 16:12-13
• Holy: Luke 11:13
• Truth: 1 John 5:6
• Benevolent: Nehemiah 9:20
• Shares Communion with Believers: 2 Corinthians 13:14

Divine Works Attributed to the Holy Spirit

Furthermore, the Holy Spirit engages in activities that only God can perform, viz:

• Creation: Job 33:4; Psalm 104:30
• Salvation: 1 Corinthians 6:11; Ephesians 1:13
• Giving Life: John 6:63
• Author of the New Birth: John 3:5-6
• Inspiration of Scripture: 2 Peter 1:21
• Conviction of Sin: John 16:8-11

The Role of the Holy Spirit in the Believer’s Life

The Holy Spirit plays a pivotal role in the life of a believer:

• Teacher and Guide: John 14:26
• Comforter and Helper: John 15:26
• Empowerer for Witnessing: Acts 1:8
• Intercessor in Prayer: Romans 8:26
• Seal of Salvation: Ephesians 1:13
• Distributor of Spiritual Gifts: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11

Living in the Power of the Holy Spirit

To live a victorious Christian life, believers must:

• Yield to the Holy Spirit: Allow Him to lead and direct every aspect of life.
• Cultivate a Relationship: Engage in regular prayer, worship, and study of the Word.
• Obey His Promptings: Be sensitive to His guidance and quick to act upon it.
• Seek His Empowerment: Rely on His strength to overcome challenges and fulfill God’s purposes.

Conclusion: Attributes of The Holy Spirit

In conclusion, the Father has instructed us on how to live in this present world, the Son has modeled that life, and the Holy Spirit, which also the spirit of Christ, empowers us to live it.

So, with all the attributes of the Holy Spirit, every child of God should allow His divine guidance and leadings in their lives.