Zac Poonen teaches that being filled with the Holy Spirit brings a transformative new revelation of the Bible beyond mere understanding.
This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of studying the scriptures with a fresh perspective, seeking not just understanding but revelation from the Holy Spirit. It highlights the difference between mere intellectual understanding and deep spiritual revelation that can only come from God. The speaker shares personal experiences of how God filled them with His Spirit through a renewed approach to studying the New Testament, leading to profound insights and blessings.
Full Transcript
As I said, I used to be frequently discouraged. And I began to study the scriptures afresh. It's one of the things I did from the very next day onwards, from that day God first filled me.
I said, Lord, if this is really the fullness of the Holy Spirit, the New Testament will become a new book for me. Because the Holy Spirit wrote it and I'll get revelation on it, not just understanding. Please note, there's a difference between understanding and revelation.
Many people go to Bible school and get understanding. I thank God I never went to a Bible school. The preachers and the books that have blessed me the most in my life were written and spoken by men who never went to a Bible school.
And I thank God I didn't go. Jesus never sent any of his apostles to the Bible school. Paul had gone to a Bible school before he was converted when he was a Jew.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Personal experience of discouragement
- Beginning fresh study of scriptures
- Seeking fullness of the Holy Spirit
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II
- Difference between understanding and revelation
- Importance of Holy Spirit inspired insight
- Bible school knowledge versus Spirit-led revelation
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III
- Examples of apostles not attending Bible school
- Paul’s background before conversion
- Reliance on Spirit rather than formal education
Key Quotes
“If this is really the fullness of the Holy Spirit, the New Testament will become a new book for me.” — Zac Poonen
“Please note, there's a difference between understanding and revelation.” — Zac Poonen
“Jesus never sent any of his apostles to the Bible school.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit to gain deeper revelation of the Bible.
- Approach scripture with a heart open to Spirit-inspired insight, not just intellectual understanding.
- Trust God’s guidance over formal education in your spiritual journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between understanding and revelation?
Understanding is intellectual knowledge, while revelation is the Spirit-inspired insight that brings the Bible to life.
Did Zac Poonen attend Bible school?
No, he did not attend Bible school and credits his spiritual growth to the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Why is the Holy Spirit fullness important?
Because it enables believers to receive new revelation and deeper insight into the scriptures.
Did Jesus send apostles to Bible school?
No, Jesus did not send any of His apostles to Bible school.
Can Bible school knowledge replace the Holy Spirit’s revelation?
No, Bible school knowledge is limited without the Holy Spirit’s revelation.
