6. The Holy Spirit and Living a Holy Life – Discussion starters
- May He sanctify you. Our lesson opens with the beautiful benediction in 1 Thessalonians: Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23, NASB). How closely connected are God’s holiness and His love for us? What does the Holy Spirit have to do with the holiness of God? How can you and I, living in a sinful world, be holy? Or can we?
- The Holiness of God. The Holy Spirit could be recognized for His spiritual depth, for His love and caring made manifest to us, or for His guidance into all truth. Why then is His primary identifying expression, the “Holy Spirit”? How important is holiness in identifying and getting to know God? Do we feel at awe when we think about God in infinite holiness? With His awesome power, how would we regard God without His being clothed in everlasting holiness?
- The Nature of Holiness. Ellen White firmly states that coming closer to God reveals our sinful nature. How so? In Ephesians 5:26-27, how are husbands admonished to treat their wives so that they (the wives) will be holy? How can you and I satisfy God’s requirements to be holy? Or can we? Can God’s people be identified as holy even when they aren’t sinless or perfect? How long does it take for a Bible-believing Christian to become perfect and holy?
- The Agent of Sanctification. What does our faith have to do with our sanctification? Are you and I ever tempted to rely on our own feelings and impressions in understanding how close we are to God? Is there a better way to understand God’s leading–or lack of it–in our lives? Does the Holy Spirit impart holiness to the believer? If so, how is this accomplished? Have you ever longed for victory over sin? Will the Holy Spirit help you achieve the victory you need?
- Pursuing Holiness. How many times this week have you felt yourself twisted by a habit of thought to say or do something that brings sorrow to the heart of God? Is the Holy Spirit available to help us when we stumble in our daily lives? With enough self control, can you not live a life of holiness? If you’ve been faithful in your work for the Lord, isn’t that all that matters? What does the Holy Spirit offer to those who stumble in the Christian walk? How does He lead people like you and me to set self aside and walk with God in the fullness of the Christian life?
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