The Holy Spirit
Overview
The Holy Spirit is the divine presence and power of God active in creation, prophecy, renewal, mission, sanctification, and resurrection life.
Canonical Development
In the Old Testament, the Spirit empowers creation, craftsmen, judges, kings, and prophets. The prophets promise a deeper future work: the Spirit poured out broadly, giving new hearts and covenant obedience. In the New Testament, that promise comes into public fullness at Pentecost, where the risen Christ pours out the Spirit on the church.
Key Anchors
- Creation - The Spirit present in creation
- Outpouring of the Spirit - Joel’s promise of the Spirit upon all flesh
- Pentecost and the Birth of the Church - The Spirit given for witness and mission
- Fruit of the Spirit - The Spirit’s character formed in believers
- The New Creation - The Spirit as the life of the age to come
Key Books
Notes
The Spirit’s work is both personal and communal: he renews hearts, forms holiness, empowers witness, and makes the church a living temple.