Be filled with the Spirit

22 August 2012

Opening Prayer/Worship

Song:

Holy Ghost fire, fire fall on me

Holy Ghost fire, fire fall on me

As in the day of Pentecost, fire fall on me

As in the day of Pentecost, fire fall on me

 (2X)

Theme: Be filled with the Holy Spirit

Topic: Be filled with the Spirit

Reading: Ephesians 5:15-20

Introduction

Each of us has a void that can only be perfectly filled with the Spirit of God.  This is why the Scripture refers to our body as the temple of God.  To be filled with the Holy Spirit, implies that we live our lives under His control and guidance.  The implication then of not being filled with the Spirit of God is that we become controlled by the flesh, human wisdom, addictions, bad habits and other ungodly attributes.  Consequently, we live below our God given ability and unless we change, we may never attain our maximum potential in life, as well as fail to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.  When we are filled with the Spirit of God, He directs our path and leads us to where He wants us to be for His own purpose and glory.  Since our living body cannot exist unfilled, we ought to be careful to yearn for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and avoid the things that can take His place in our lives.  In today’s study, our discussion will focus on why and how we can be filled with the Holy Spirit.

Questions/Discussion

1. What is your understanding of the phrase: ‘be filled with the Holy Spirit’?  

Joel 2:28-32

Proverbs 20:1

Matthew 3:11-12

Acts 2:1-4

Ephesians 5:17-18

2. Why should we desire to be filled with the Spirit of God?  

Ezekiel 36:22-32

John 3:5-8, 6:56-66

Acts 11:11-18

Romans 8:9-11

2 Corinthians 3:2-6

3. What are the things that may prevent us from being filled with the Holy Spirit and how do we avoid them?

 Isaiah 32:9-20

I Corinthians 6:18-20

Galatians 5:16-26

Intercession/Worship

Conclusion

God has poured out His Spirit for all who believe in Christ to receive.  May we always open our hearts and mind to the Holy Spirit that we may be filled and controlled by Him at all times.

Closing Prayer (Collect for 12^th Sunday after Pentecost)

Almighty God, You have broken the tyranny of sin and sent into our hearts the Spirit of Your Son.  Give us grace to dedicate our freedom to Your service, that all people may know the glorious liberty of the children of God; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.