086 | Who is the Holy Spirit?

For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this Anchor Group study with you.

⌘ Space to Belong | 5-10 minutes

Connect with one another with an ice-breaker.

🎁 Describe a time when you received an unexpected gift. How did it make you feel or change your perspective?

⌘ Space to Believe | 10-15 minutes

Read and reflect on the scripture.

Acts 1:1–11 (NIV) 1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

What stands out to you? Is there anything new for you to believe or obey?

⌘ Space to Become | 10-15 minutes

A. Familiarize yourself with the sermon.

In this message, Pastor Paul introduces us to the Holy Spirit, the often-misunderstood third person of the Trinity. The Holy Spirit isn't just a mystical force but a Person of the Trinity, actively working in the lives of believers. Throughout the Old Testament, the Spirit came upon particular people at appointed times for specific purposes, but after the resurrection of Jesus, we see the Holy Spirit become widely available to all believers in the New Covenant. Paul explains that this same Holy Spirit promised to the first disciples is available to us today—empowering us not just to follow Jesus, but to do the things we could never do in our own strength.

B. Discuss one or more of the following questions.

What does it mean to you that the Holy Spirit is a person of the Trinity and not just a “force”?
- Paul pointed out that while the Holy Spirit is often described in fluid terms (wind, fire, water), it’s important to recognize Him as a distinct person within the Trinity.
- How does viewing the Holy Spirit as a relational person of God, rather than an impersonal force, affect the way you engage with Him in your daily life?
How does understanding the Holy Spirit as "prevalent" in the New Testament impact your view of His role today?
- We heard how the Holy Spirit was once “particular” in the Old Testament, working through select individuals at specific times. But in the New Testament, He becomes widely available and “prevalent” in all believers.
- How does this shift your understanding of what the Holy Spirit can do in your life?
Paul said the Holy Spirit is a gift promised to us. Have you experienced His presence or power in your own life?
- In Acts 2:38-39, Peter declares the gift of the Holy Spirit is for all who repent and are baptized—this includes us!
- What has your experience been with receiving or recognizing the Holy Spirit in your life? Share any personal insights of how His presence has manifested or is growing.
In what areas do you feel you need the Holy Spirit’s help to do something you couldn’t do alone?
- We looked at examples of the Spirit empowering ordinary people—like Gideon, Bezalel, and Samson—to do extraordinary things.
- Is there a particular area in your life (work, relationships, health, etc.) where you recognize the need for God’s empowering Spirit to accomplish what you couldn’t achieve in your own strength?
The message encourages us to “keep receiving” beyond just initial salvation. How could this look for you personally?
- Paul emphasized that salvation is only the beginning, and the Holy Spirit’s role doesn’t end once we’re forgiven—He continues to empower and transform us.
- What steps could you take this week to actively invite more of the Holy Spirit’s presence and power into your life? How do you regularly position yourself to receive from Him?