JESUS IN MESample

Loving the Person of the Holy Spirit

I’ve heard the Holy Spirit spoken of as an “it,” a feeling, a dove, a flame, a ghost, an emotion, or even an ecstatic experience. He is frequently referred to as the third person of the Trinity, as though He is a postscript to the more significant Father and Son. All of which is inaccurate. 

While the Holy Spirit may be symbolized by a dove or flame, while His presence may be accompanied by an emotion or feeling or ecstatic experience, He Himself is distinctly separate from those things. The Holy Spirit is not a thing but a person. So at the outset of our exploration of who the Holy Spirit is, we need to be clear that we are not speaking of an “it.” We are speaking of a “He.” He is a living person. He is referred to as the third person of the Trinity not because He is the least but because He is the third person to be more fully revealed in Scripture. 

In the Old Testament, although the Holy Spirit and God the Son—the living Word who became Jesus in the flesh—are present, it is God the Father who is primarily revealed. In the Gospels, while the Father and the Holy Spirit are certainly present, it is God the Son who is primarily revealed. Beginning with Acts and the epistles, although God the Father and God the Son are also present, it is primarily God the Holy Spirit who is revealed. 

If the Holy Spirit is a person with an intellect, will, and emotions, what is He really like? What is His personality? What are His responsibilities? Are you intrigued by this mysterious person? I know I have been and still am. 

One of my deepest, richest joys has been discovering who the Holy Spirit is in every step of my life’s journey. What a delight to see how each name that He has been given in Scripture—Helper, Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor, Counselor, Strengthener, and Standby—shows us more of His character. Experiencing the reality and power of the Holy Spirit has provoked in me a deep love for the One who is always present…Jesus in me. 

As you read the names of the Holy Spirit, what name catches your attention as Someone you especially want to turn to in your life today? Why do you think that is?