In today’s session, Grady Smalling leads a discussion of the Holy Spirit, from Genesis to Jerusalem. It is through the Holy Spirit that we see the Heavenly Father’s pursuit of a relationship with the human family.
In this session, Dr. Nunnally takes up the question found in Acts 19:2: “‘Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?’ And they said, ‘No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.'” ESV What is the evidence for receiving the Holy Spirit? Is the evidence of tongues the sign of the Spirit’s indwelling, or is it possible to be filled with the Spirit in the absence of tongues? Jesus convenes this discussion with His words, recorded in John 14:17: “You know Him (the Holy Spirit) for He dwells with you and will be in you.”
In this session, Rev. Bob Crabtree convenes a discussion targeting a practical emphasis on the works of the Holy Spirit. “We are people of the future. You get into trouble when you come to the conclusion that you can proceed without the counsel of the Holy Spirit.” (As an aside — during the presentation, Bob relates an unexpected missionary adventure — we’ll call it, “The Hallelujah Story.”)
Substituting for Dr. Nunnally, Rev. Robert Crabtree takes up a discussion of the power needed for witness. As the church enters the most turbulent period in history, God’s people must actively pursue every spiritual advantage. Will God remain engaged with humanity as planetary culture collapses into unbelief? Absolutely. The Holy Spirit is our Comforter and ultimate resource; God remains engaged with His people.