Day 77
Today’s reading: 2 Corinthians 3:1-18
The Ministry of The Spirit
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The Ministry of The Spirit 〰️
Reflections
As a christian, new or perhaps born into a christian family, you would have at one point heard of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself told us it was advantageous to us that He goes and the Holy Spirit comes to us. However, do you understand the ministry of the Holy Spirit and why He is beneficial to us? Let’s explore some of His works and benefits.
The ministry of the Spirit brings about internal transformation. The primary goal of the Holy Spirit is to bring glory to Jesus. He does this by transforming us to be more like Christ. When we are like Christ, people see our lives and give glory to God. When we are like Christ people will get to know and see the nature and beauty of God, we become true image-bearers of God; this is what brings glory to Christ. The ministry of the Spirit is the ministry of righteousness. This ministry provides right standing before God. By the Holy Spirit, we are enabled to approach God’s presence without guilt; we no longer live in condemnation because of our failure to observe the law, but much more, we are empowered to do what is right. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is not necessarily in the spectacular, it is internal and spiritual. If we’re looking for the spectacular, like Elijah in 1Kings 19:11-13, we will miss the Holy Spirit. A major difference for us as New Testament believers is that we always have the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit doesn’t just appear once in a while, He’s in-dwelling in us. This is a very great advantage for us as believers because it means we always have God with us and we can access His power at any moment.
Study Questions
What was a letter of commendation and what was its purpose? Will the principle behind this be relevant in the church today? How will it be applied today?
What is the Glory of God according to Paul? Do a brief topical study using a study bible
How does this chapter fit into the broader narrative of Paul’s discourse in defending his ministry?
What did you learn about God’s nature, His ways and His will from today’s reading?
Highlight
“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV