The Work of the Holy Spirit... the One Thing Needful.
Lasting change and a deeper understanding of the Bible require the work of the Holy Spirit, who brings the Gospel to men in power and assurance.
Andrew Murray emphasizes the essential role of the Holy Spirit in making the truth of the Gospel effective in the hearts of believers. He argues that while human efforts can create a temporary impression, true and lasting change comes only through the work of the Holy Spirit. The Gospel must be received not merely as human words but as the powerful Word of God, which transforms lives through faith. Murray calls for believers to acknowledge and wait on the Holy Spirit as the one thing needful for spiritual growth and revival.
Text
Ordinarily when a teacher or reader of the Bible truth that has been accepted, wants to enforce it, he seeks by argument to deepen the impression that has been made. That impression may be a very pleasing one, and apparently deep; it will not be lasting, unless the work of the Holy Spirit is acknowledged and waited on as the one thing needful. It is only and always as the Gospel comes to men 'in the Holy Ghost and in power and much assurance', that it will be received, not as the word of man, but as the Word of God, which worketh effectually in them that believe.
(Excerpted from The Coming Revival, by Andrew Murray , pg. 23)
Sermon Outline
- I. The Impermanence of Human Impressions
- A. Impressions made by human argument are fleeting
- B. Lasting change requires the work of the Holy Spirit
- II. The Necessity of the Holy Spirit's Work
- A. The Gospel must be received in the Holy Ghost
- B. This is the only way to receive the Gospel as the Word of God
- III. The Power of the Holy Spirit's Work
- A. The Holy Spirit works effectually in those who believe
Key Quotes
“It is only and always as the Gospel comes to men 'in the Holy Ghost and in power and much assurance', that it will be received, not as the word of man, but as the Word of God, which worketh effectually in them that believe.” — Andrew Murray
Application Points
- To deepen your understanding of the Bible, seek the work of the Holy Spirit and acknowledge His role in bringing lasting change.
- The Holy Spirit is essential for receiving the Gospel in a way that leads to lasting change and a deep understanding of its truth.
- Recognize that lasting change requires the work of the Holy Spirit, and wait on Him to bring about this change in your life.