Their mission was simple – find Jesus and ask him a very direct question. The expected answer would either be yes or no. The reason for this simple question was more complex. The imprisoned John the Baptist was a believer in Christ. Yet, through the insinuations of others and his own misconceptions of the role of the Messiah, doubts began to arise in John’s mind. He needed an answer from Jesus confirming who He was and to this end he sent his disciples to inquire. Luke 7 records this event.

When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another? And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight. Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me. Luke 7:20-23

The evidence spoke for itself. Jesus’ character, works and words all revealed His divinity. There was no greater answer than what Jesus demonstrated as He walked this earth as a man.

This week as we look at The Holy Spirit much will be discussed about who He is. Speculation outside of what is written consumes many. His existence is a mystery to man, but the evidence of His presence is ample for those willing to see.

We find indisputable evidence of the Holy Spirit working in the lives of men. There are men and women like John the Baptist and Elijah who walk among us, known for their firm declarations against sin and unrighteousness, men and women who give evidence of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

And who could dispute the courageous Joshuas and Calebs of our life times? Men and women who in spirit-filled courage press the advancement of the gospel and move the church forward in the midst of opposition.

But just as significant is the evidence of the Holy Spirit in the lives of each converted saint. One who has replaced selfishness with selflessness for the good of others stands as a monument to the Spirit’s power. Showing love, kindness, compassion, generosity and long-suffering as a way of life is evidence of the mysterious working of the Holy Spirit.

In the ones who resist evil, who shun the intoxicating allurements of the world, we find the Holy Spirit at work. Commandment keeping in love and not just obligation witnesses to the presence of a divine working. The peace and contentment of a life surrendered is evidence that cannot be disputed.

Each time the Word of God is opened and light is shone into the heart and minds of readers we see the working of the Holy Spirit. The unfolding of the plan of redemption, the illumination of the love of God and the great sacrifice of Jesus is an evidence of the unique power of the Holy Spirit.

We cannot explain with any exactness who the Holy Spirit is, but we should be able to show what He has done in our lives. We should borrow from the testimony of the healed blind man who washed in the pool of Siloam…

One thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. John 9:25

Here are a few Hit the Mark questions for this week’s lesson discussion:

• How do you describe the Holy Spirit?
• Explain what the Holy Spirit being our Comforter means to you.
• Is it possible to control the Holy Spirit’s presence? Why or why not?
• Is it true that a powerful public worship experience is proof of the Holy Spirit’s presence? Explain your answer
• Is it true that the better the music and/ or preaching at our public worships the more likely we will encounter the Holy Spirit?
• Is the following statement True, Mostly True, Somewhat True or Not True:
  You can be filled with the Holy Spirit but not necessarily be a pleasant person? Explain your answer.
• How can one tell if the Holy Spirit is present?

We close this week with Christ’s clear declarations of the working of the Spirit of Truth. It is a promise made to all who receive Him:

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. John 16:13

Until next week, let’s all continue to Hit the Mark in Sabbath School!

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