(Walking in the Spirit) 9. THE SPIRIT OF COMFORT
A.B. Simpson teaches that the Holy Spirit, as the Spirit of Comfort, brings believers both peace with God and the peace of God, guiding them into deeper rest and assurance.
In this devotional sermon, A.B. Simpson explores the comforting role of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the twofold peace believers receive: peace with God and the peace of God. Drawing from Scripture, he reveals how the Spirit seals assurance on the believer’s heart and brings deep rest beyond initial forgiveness. Simpson encourages believers to walk in the Spirit’s comfort and experience the fullness of divine peace in their daily lives.
Text
"Walking in the comfort of the Holy Ghost." Acts 9: 31.
Our English translators have given to the Greek work ‘Paraclete,’ which the Lord Jesus applied to the Holy Ghost, the translation of the Comforter. And while this term is not expressive of the complete sense of the original, yet it expresses very beautifully one of the most blessed characters and offices of the Holy Spirit.
I. He is the author of peace.
It is twofold peace, peace with God and the peace of God. We find many references to this twofold rest. "Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest." This is the rest which the troubled soul receives when it comes to Christ for pardon. But then there is a deeper rest: "Take my yoke upon you and learn of me who am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls." This is experienced after the surrender of the will to God, and the discipline of the Spirit fully received. So again the prophet Isaiah announces, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee."
There is a deeper peace, so we find the risen Savior meeting the disciples in the upper room with the salutation, "Peace be unto you," as He shows them His hands and His side; but later, He breathes on them and adds a second benediction of peace as they receive the Holy Ghost. Peace with God is the effect of forgiveness, "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This is the gift of the Holy Spirit as He seals upon the heart the assurance of God\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Spirit of Comfort Defined
- The Greek term 'Paraclete' means Comforter
- The Holy Spirit’s office includes comforting believers
- The term expresses one of the Spirit’s blessed characters
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II. The Twofold Peace
- Peace with God through forgiveness
- Peace of God as deeper rest in the soul
- The difference between initial rest and deeper spiritual rest
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III. Biblical Illustrations of Peace
- Jesus’ invitation to rest for the weary
- Isaiah’s prophecy of perfect peace
- Jesus’ post-resurrection greetings of peace
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IV. The Holy Spirit’s Role in Sealing Peace
- The Spirit as the seal of assurance
- Peace as a gift of the Spirit
- The Spirit’s work in the believer’s heart
Key Quotes
“Our English translators have given to the Greek word ‘Paraclete,’ which the Lord Jesus applied to the Holy Ghost, the translation of the Comforter.” — A.B. Simpson
“Peace with God is the effect of forgiveness, 'Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.'” — A.B. Simpson
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee.” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- Trust the Holy Spirit to bring peace and comfort during times of trial.
- Seek deeper rest by surrendering your will to God and embracing the Spirit’s discipline.
- Remember that peace with God comes through faith and is sealed by the Holy Spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Paraclete' mean?
Paraclete is a Greek word translated as Comforter, referring to the Holy Spirit’s role in comforting and guiding believers.
What is the twofold peace mentioned in the sermon?
The twofold peace includes peace with God through forgiveness and the deeper peace of God experienced in the believer’s soul.
How does the Holy Spirit bring peace to believers?
The Holy Spirit seals the believer’s heart with assurance and imparts both peace with God and the peace of God.
Why is peace important in the Christian life?
Peace signifies rest from spiritual burdens and assurance of God’s presence, enabling believers to live confidently in faith.
How can one experience the peace of God?
By surrendering the will to God and receiving the discipline and guidance of the Holy Spirit.