BELIEVER'S COMMON HERITAGE
The Indwelling Spirit: Our Common Heritage as Believers
As believers, we share a common heritage that surpasses earthly connections – we have God as our Father (1 John 3:1). This divine relationship is rooted in our salvation, where we received the Spirit of adoption (Ephesians 4:30, Galatians 4:5-7). This Spirit was prophesied by Ezekiel (Ezekiel 36:26-27) and is a gift we receive when we believe the gospel.
The Gift of the Indwelling Spirit
Notice that believers aren't meant to request the indwelling of the Spirit; it's already a part of our salvation package. We don't need to ask for something we already possess! Instead, we're called to acknowledge and surrender to the Spirit's presence within us (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Unaware of the Spirit's Presence
Sadly, many believers remain unaware that the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead resides inside them (Romans 8:11). This ignorance leads to a life of spiritual poverty, as they search for miracles, run from one denomination to another, and seek intermediaries to talk to God on their behalf.
A Culture of Religion
This spiritual confusion stems from the religious culture that has infiltrated Christianity. Jesus described people who prioritize miracles over a genuine relationship with Him as "an adulterous generation" (Matthew 12:39, 16:4; Mark 8:11-12, 8:38; Luke 11:29-32, 11:50-51, 12:54-56). They seek the spectacular instead of surrendering to the Spirit's presence within.
Returning to the Truth
It's time to return to the truth of the Gospel. We must acknowledge the indwelling Spirit and surrender to His leading. As we do, we'll experience the miraculous life that Jesus promised (John 14:12-14). Let's break free from the shackles of religious culture and embrace the reality of the indwelling Spirit.
Scriptures to Meditate On
- Romans 8:11: "But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you."
- 1 Corinthians 3:16: "Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in your midst?"
- Galatians 2:20: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
The Reality of Christianity
The indwelling Spirit – the Spirit of God or Holy Spirit, also known as the Spirit of Christ – is the very essence of Christianity. It's the reality that sets us apart from the world and empowers us to live a life that honors God. A Christian life is a spiritual life, it is a supernatural life.
Beyond Religion
However, over time, Christianity has often been reduced to a mere religion. But true Christianity is not about religion; it's about a deeply personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, religious culture has crept in, causing many to lose sight of this fundamental truth.
The Dangers of Religion
When Christianity becomes more about rituals, rules, and traditions, it can lead to a shallow, superficial faith. Religion can cause people to focus on outward appearances rather than inward transformation. In the process, the truth of the Gospel is lost, and many end up serving a God they barely know.
Refocusing on Christ
It's time to refocus on the heart of Christianity: a vibrant, living relationship with Jesus Christ. Let's strip away the trappings of religion and return to the simplicity and power of the Gospel. When we do, we'll discover a faith that's authentic, transformative, and supernaturally empowered.
A Life of Intimacy and Power
As we cultivate a deeper relationship with Christ, we'll experience the reality of the indwelling Spirit. We'll live a life that's characterized by intimacy with God, supernatural power, and a deep sense of purpose. This is the reality of Christianity – a reality that's available to all who seek it.
The Role of the Indwelling Spirit
This Spirit:
- Guides us into truth (John 16:13)
- Fills us with love and fruit (Galatians 5:22-23)
- Equips us with gifts and talents (1 Corinthians 12:4-11)
- Transforms us into Christ's image (2 Corinthians 3:18)
Embracing Our Inheritance
As we embrace our common heritage as believers, let's:
- Recognize the Spirit's indwelling presence
- Surrender to His guidance and power
- Cultivate a deeper relationship with our Father
- Live out the reality of Christianity in our daily lives
Practical Applications
1. Acknowledge the Spirit's presence: Take time to reflect on the Spirit's indwelling presence in your life.
2. Surrender to the Spirit's guidance: Ask the Spirit to guide you in your decisions and actions.
3. Cultivate a deeper relationship with God: Spend quality time with God, reading His Word and praying.
4. Live out the reality of Christianity: Share your faith with others, and live a life that honors God.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the indwelling Spirit is the hallmark of our Christian faith, setting us apart from the world and empowering us to live a life that honors God. As we acknowledge and surrender to the Spirit's presence within us, we'll experience the miraculous life that Jesus promised. Let's break free from the shackles of religious culture and embrace the reality of the indwelling Spirit. May we cherish this gift, walk in the fullness of our inheritance as children of God, and live a life that reflects the beauty and power of our supernatural faith.
Reflection Questions
1. How has the indwelling Spirit impacted your life?
2. What does it mean to you to have the Spirit of God living within you?
3. How can you surrender more to the Spirit's guidance and power in your life?
Additional Scriptures
- Romans 8:9-11
- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
- Ephesians 5:18
Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below!
