Their mission was simple – find Jesus and ask him a straightforward question. The expected answer would either be yes or no. The reason for this simple question was more complicated. The imprisoned John the Baptist was a believer in Christ. Yet, through the insinuations of others and his misconceptions about the Messiah’s role, 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 chapter 7 records this event.

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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 Spirit-Empowered Witnessing, much will be discussed about who the Holy Spirit is. Speculation outside of what is written consumes many. The Spirit’s existence is a mystery to man, but His presence is ample for those willing to see.

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

And who could dispute the courageous Joshuas and Calebs of our lifetimes? In spirit-filled courage, men and women press the advancement of the gospel and move the church forward amid opposition.

But just as significant is the evidence of the Holy Spirit in the lives of each converted saint. The 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 brought about by the Holy Spirit’s mysterious working.

For those who resist evil, who shun the intoxicating allurements of the world, we find the Holy Spirit at work. Commandment keeping influenced by love and not just obligation witnesses to the presence of divine working. In the peace and contentment of a life surrendered, we find indisputable evidence.

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

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:

• What does the word “power” mean to you?
• What does Holy Ghost power mean to you?
• Is it possible to control the Holy Spirit’s presence? Why or why not?
• What does the life of a Spirit-led disciple of Christ look like?
• How does the church of today compare to the early church in the Book of Acts?
• Is the following statement True, Mostly True, Somewhat True or Not True: Being a good moral person who diligently keeps the commandments of God is evidence of the Holy Spirit’s presence. Explain your answer.
• How can one tell if the Holy Spirit is present?

We close this week with Christ’s explicit 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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