The Holy Spirit Explained - Part ISample

The Prophets and the Spirit

The prophets of the Old Testament were more than messengers; they were vessels through which the Holy Spirit spoke the very Words of God. Their ability to prophesy was not of their own doing but was empowered by the Holy Spirit. This Divine Empowerment extended to writing Scripture as well. The prophets often wrote things they themselves did not fully understand. They knew they were recording truths about the coming Messiah, even if the full picture was beyond their grasp.

As the New Testament begins, we continue to see the Spirit’s Work in those awaiting the Messiah. John the Baptist, for instance, was filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb. His mother, Elizabeth, was also filled with the Spirit when she recognized the significance of Mary's visit, proclaiming blessings over Mary and the Child she carried.

The Holy Spirit’s influence was evident in the life of Zechariah, John the Baptist’s father. When he was filled with the Spirit, Zechariah prophesied about the coming of the Messiah and his son’s role in preparing the way. Zechariah’s prophecy was a powerful declaration of God’s Faithfulness, made possible by the Spirit’s Enabling.

Simeon, a devout man in Jerusalem, also experienced the Spirit’s Guidance. The Holy Spirit revealed to him that he would see the Messiah before he died. When he finally held the infant Jesus, he blessed God, recognizing the fulfillment of the promise made to him

These accounts demonstrate how the Holy Spirit operated in the lives of those who were part of God’s Redemptive Plan. The Spirit empowered them to speak, write, and understand truths that were crucial to the unfolding story of Salvation. Thus, these individuals fulfilled their unique roles in God’s Plan.

You, too, have been tasked by God to have a unique role in His Kingdom and ultimate Plan of Redemption. Make space in your daily routine to pause, pray, and ask the Spirit to reveal where He wants to lead you—and then step out in faith to follow.