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With One Another · Week 5

What Is the Holy Spirit?

Matt Russell · May 23, 2026

The Holy Spirit can be one of the most misunderstood parts of the Christian faith. This message offers a clear, biblical introduction to who the Spirit is and how He works in our lives.

Key Scripture

John 14:15-17, Acts 1:8, Galatians 5:22-23

Key Points

  • The Holy Spirit is a person, not a force or feeling
  • Jesus sent the Spirit to be our Helper, Guide, and Comforter
  • The Spirit produces fruit in our lives that reflects Jesus

Quotes to Remember

“The Holy Spirit isn't a backup plan — He's God's presence with us.”
“You don't have to live the Christian life in your own strength.”

Sermon Notes

Big Idea

The Holy Spirit is not a force, a feeling, or an impersonal power — He is a person. The third person of the Trinity. Jesus promised the Spirit would be our Helper, our Guide, and our Comforter. He is God's presence with us, living inside every believer, empowering us to live the Christian life.

01

The Spirit Is a Person, Not a Force

John 14:15-17

Jesus says the world cannot receive the Spirit because it does not see Him or know Him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you. Jesus uses the Greek word parakletos — one who is called alongside to help. The Spirit is not an 'it.' He is a 'He.' He can be grieved, He speaks, He guides, He teaches. You cannot have a relationship with a force. But you can have a relationship with the Spirit.

“You cannot have a relationship with a force. But you can have a relationship with the Spirit.”
02

The Spirit Empowers You

Acts 1:8

Jesus tells His disciples they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on them. And they will be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. The power of the Spirit is not for show — it is for mission. The Spirit empowers you to be a witness. Not a perfect witness, but a faithful one. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you.

“The power of the Spirit is not for show. It is for mission.”
03

The Spirit Produces Fruit

Galatians 5:22-23

Paul contrasts the acts of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. Fruit is singular — love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. These are not things you manufacture. They are the natural result of the Spirit living in you. The Spirit does not just give you power to do things — He changes who you are from the inside out.

“The Spirit does not just give you power to do things. He changes who you are.”

Application

This week, I want you to practice being aware of the Holy Spirit. Start your day by saying, 'Holy Spirit, I invite You into this day.' When you face a decision, ask, 'Spirit, what do You want me to do?' When you feel impatient or angry, pause and ask the Spirit to produce His fruit in that moment. The goal is not to know about the Spirit — it is to walk with Him.

7-Day Reading Plan

Spend the week reflecting on this message with daily scripture readings, reflections, and prayers. Each day builds on the sermon and helps you apply biblical wisdom to your life.

“The Holy Spirit is not a force, a feeling, or an impersonal power — He is a person. The third person of the Trinity. Jesus promised the Spirit would be our Helper, our Guide, and our Comforter. He is God's presence with us, living inside every believer, empowering us to live the Christian life.”
Start the Reading Plan →
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