September 07

Job 32:1-33:33
Psalm 106:13-23
Proverbs 22:3-4
1 Corinthians 12:1-20

Purity and Power
A demonstration of the Spirit is given to each person to produce what is beneficial.
—1 Corinthians 12:7

Although Jesus told us that through the Holy Spirit’s power, we would do greater works than He had performed, the truth is that we are just not availing ourselves of the divine resources. There are notable exceptions to what I am saying, but, by and large, this is the way it is in today’s church. Paul says in 1 Thessalonians 1:5: “Our gospel [came] to you … in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with much assurance.” At the center of that “power” and “assurance” was the Holy Spirit. These traits are largely lacking in much of modern Christianity because too many of us lack a full encounter with the Holy Spirit.

Some years ago, when I was a pastor in the north of England, another minister in the town (a good friend of mine) said, “You preach about the Spirit’s power, and I’ll preach about the Spirit’s purity. That way we will keep a balance in the lives of Christians in this town.” I pondered what he said and came to the conclusion that such a procedure would produce lopsided Christians, for both congregations needed to hear of the Spirit’s purity and power.

Today’s churches can be divided into two camps—those where the purity aspect is emphasized and those where the power aspect is emphasized. If every church focused with equal emphasis on both these characteristics of the Spirit, we would witness a healthier body of believers. Purity is essential, but so is power. The Holy Spirit supplies both.

Prayer
O Spirit of purity and power, live in Your church as both. For I need purity to see my destiny and power to follow it. Give me equal measure. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Further Study
Ac 5:1-16; 1Co 12; Gal 5:22-26
How did the early church learn about this power and purity?
What was the result?

Every Day with Jesus Daily Bible – September 07