LESSON 7
The Holy Spirit is the source of all life. The Holy Spirit regenerates (brings new life and faith). He sanctifies and helps us win the battle over sin (Gal. 5:17). He indwells those whom God has chosen; and He empowers people for service to God. The Spirit is our Comforter (John 14:16–17). He guides us into all truth (John 14:7). When Jesus lived on earth, the Spirit descended on Him like a dove, empowering Him to do the miraculous, directing Jesus, and comforting Him. Jesus offered Himself to God through the Spirit. And He was raised by the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:11). The major difference between the Holy Spirit’s function in the Old Testament and the New Testament is the indwelling Spirit. Before Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to take up permanent residence in the hearts of believers (Eph. 1:13–14), the Spirit would come upon people in the Old Testament on a selective and often temporary basis. Sometimes this was for long periods (1 Sam. 16:13), other times for short instances (Judg. 14:6 and 19; and 15:14). But then, as now, it is by the power of the Spirit that God accomplishes His will, includ- ing the rebuilding of the temple (Zech. 4:6). 27 4. Just as God promised Zerubbabel that his hands would complete the temple, God has promised believers that He will complete the work He has begun in each one of us (Phil. 1:6). How does this promise bring you comfort and bolster your confidence amidst the current challenges that you face, wheth- er physical, financial, relational, or professional?
5. Read Zechariah 4:11–14. Zerubbabel and Joshua were anointed or chosen by God and set apart to fulfill God’s purpose to complete the temple and lead the nation of Israel to become a light to the nations once more. As a believ- er, how has God anointed you with similar power and purpose? (Consider Matt. 5:14–16; Acts 1:8; and 1 Pet. 2:9–10.)
27 “What was the role of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament?” Got Questions: Your Questions, Biblical Answers. March 2025. https://www.gotquestions.org/Spirit-Old-Testament.html
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