Empower Study Booklet by rivervalleychurch

EMPOWER

“Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days, you will be baptized with] the Holy Spirit… you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:4, 8 (NIV)

INTRODUCTION There is nothing more powerful than living a Spirit-filled empowered life! This eight-week Bible study will instruct, encourage, and inspire you to walk in all that Jesus has made available to you through the infilling of the Holy Spirit and the gifts that He imparts. These gifts are vital and need to be used in order to be effective witnesses for Him. In this study you will learn about the unseen world, which is called the Spirit realm. Even though we don’t see it with our physical eyes, we interact with it on a daily basis. You will also learn in detail about each of the nine gifts of the Spirit how they are used throughout the Old and New Testament by ordinary people. Finally, you will have the opportunity to deepen your relationship with the Lord through the lessons on prayer and intercession. Are you ready to get started?

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GROUP LEADER Our desire as you lead your group participants through this study is to be aware of four specific components. They are teach, equip, demonstrate, and experience. The teach and equip parts are in each of the eight lessons and are prepared for you. The last two components demonstrate and experience are opportunities for you to help your group experience being led by Holy Spirit through the gifts He gives to His followers. Each time you gather, begin your time with a worship song or two. This helps everyone focus on God’s presence. Then take time to open in prayer and begin your lesson time. We encourage participants to read through the lesson discussed prior to group time. That way, they will be ready to participate and engage in the discussion. Towards the end of the lesson, there will be a prompt titled “Do It”. Don’t rush this time but give an opportunity for the participants to experience what was taught during the lesson time. Our prayer is this study will be life-changing for all participants as they walk in the fullness of the Spirit on a daily basis.

THESE PROMPTS WILL BE LOCATED THROUGHOUT EACH LESSON. TAKE TIME TO INTERACT WITH ALL OF THEM. Group Share – Take a moment and allow group members to share their thoughts on the topic. It’s important to help the group stay on topic. If other topics arise, encourage that discussion to happen at the end of the lesson. Read Out Loud – Get people talking! Ask a group member or have the entire group read the verse or statement out loud. What is the Holy Spirit Saying to Me? – Have everyone pause and ask the Holy Spirit to speak to them. The Holy Spirit is at work in each person’s life bringing about His purposes and revelation. Don’t rush this moment. Write It – There is something very powerful about writing down verses from the Bible. We are more apt to remember them and experience the power of God’s written Word when we write them down. Sketch It – Be creative and sketch what is prompted in that lesson. Do It – This is an opportunity to put into practice that which you’ve just learned.

EMPOWER Table of Contents Introduction to the Spirit Realm

Receiving the Fullness of His Promised Holy Spirit

What are Spiritual Gifts?

Holy Spirit Revelation Gifts

Holy Spirit Power Gifts

Holy Spirit Utterance/Inspiration Gifts

Prayer

Intercession

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WITHOUT THE SPIRIT OF GOD, WE CAN DO NOTHING, WE ARE AS SHIPS WITHOUT WIND. WE ARE USELESS. Charles Spurgeon

LESSON 1

Introduction to the Spirit Realm There has got to be more to life than this. This thought has, or yet will, cross the mind of virtually everyone who lives. It most often comes when a person reaches a pinnacle they worked hard and long for, only to find the accomplishment doesn’t satisfy as they expected it would. No matter how perfectly arranged your life is, the circumstances you create for yourself will not turn off that intuitive knowing inside you that there is more to life than what your senses can report. The enemy would love to silence this inner discontent because it alerts us to our spiritual need. Since he cannot remove the awareness God has placed in us of this need, he tries to lure us to look for the answers we seek in all the wrong places. The counterfeits he offers run the gamut from evident to subtle. Some are clearly spiritual in nature, such as magic, horoscopes, and seances. Others are less obvious such as drunkenness, mind-altering drug use, and certain movies or music. Some are so cleverly disguised that we don’t consider them spiritual at all. Methods by which we probe the psyche of man and certain exercises or relaxation techniques that have us search for inner peace are dangerous in unobvious ways. The enemy is fine with any counterfeit a person can engage in, as long as he can keep them from the truth. Ignorance is not bliss; it is costly. We cannot allow the enemy to have his way in our lives because of what we do not know or do not apply. We must live aware that there is more going on around us than what we can see. There truly is more to life than this. Group Share: Have you ever wondered if there was more to life than “this”? If so, in what areas did you look for answers to the question or ways to fill the void?

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There is a Spirit Realm There is a world we cannot see that is more real than the world we can see. We call this world the “spirit realm,” and hosts of angelic and demonic spirits operate within it. Angels are on mission with God, while demons are on mission with Satan. God created these spiritual beings to minister within His own Kingdom, but Lucifer, a chief angel, rebelled in pride and arrogance.

Isaiah 14:12–14 (NKJV)

“How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations! For you have said in your heart: ‘I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation On the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.’

All people have made foolish or arrogant statements, but at least we can say we were influenced by an enemy who deceived us. Lucifer had no such influence. No one put the idea in his head that he could be like God; he got there himself. Somehow this created being decided that he could be better than his Creator and declared it would be so. He is so good at telling lies, he was able to convince himself and sadly, many more. There were angels in Heaven who heard Lucifer make these preposterous statements and chose to believe he could do it. They followed him in his rebellion, were cast out of Heaven, and the demonic realm was born. Like angels, demons possess intelligence and great power, which they use to spread evil in the world. We do not want our focus on the spiritual realm to be primarily on our enemy. We must be aware he is there and aware of his devices (2 Corinthians 2:11), but we also want to live aware that the One who lives within us is greater than the enemy. Satan is not God’s equal, and he will never be. He has zero hope of winning this war he is waging against Almighty God, and we must always keep this in mind.

1 John 4:4 (NKJV)

You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

He who is in you is the Holy Spirit of God. The moment you first believed, you became His temple, and He now abides in you (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19). We will talk at length about what this means in our next lesson, but for now, let’s just acknowledge that He is there. His presence makes all the difference in the battles we fight in this world. Write It: God’s Holy Spirit abides within you. Write a sentence or two expressing your gratitude to God for His constant presence and overcoming power in your life.

The Battle in High Places As believers, we are citizens of the Kingdom of God, and we are here on this battleground called Earth to represent our Kingdom and our King. The battle we fight here is not against other earth-dwellers but against the forces of the Kingdom of Darkness. This is why Paul said:

Ephesians 6:10–13 (NKJV)

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

We stand against the wiles of the devil. A “wile” is a trick or strategy used to ensnare or deceive. The devil has a strategy to deceive you, and since he is not omnipresent, he needs help carrying his strategy out. Paul tells us who this help is:

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Paul said we have personal warfare with four different kinds of demonic forces: principalities, powers, rulers of darkness, and hosts of wickedness. This band of demons occupies our atmosphere. They are organized, trained, disciplined, and committed to steal, kill, and destroy. They are masters in depravity and violence, and they roam the earth executing an evil plan set forth by Satan himself. We wrestle with these spiritual beings, not physically but spiritually. This is why when Paul goes on to list our armor in verses 14-18, he names the spiritual protection of truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation, and the spiritual weapon of the Word of God. We need the whole armor of God to fight these spiritual battles—an armor that is unseen in the natural.

2 Corinthians 10:3–4 (NKJV)

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,

Our armor and these weapons are far superior to the enemy’s tactics and more than enough to give us the victory. This victory is even more certain when we consider that Jesus has already disarmed our enemy!

Colossians 2:15 (NKJV)

Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.

If the armor of God and a certain victory were not enough, we have also been given the protection of angels. The enemy has attempted to alter our perception of angels in hopes that we will believe they are chubby, harp-playing cherubs. They are not. Angels are fierce, strong, and mighty. When men encountered angels in the Bible, their reaction was often to want to worship them—although angels always prevented this as they do not draw attention to themselves but always point to Jesus.

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Angels carry out God’s judgments, deliver His messages, and at the end of the age, they will gather His people from the earth and escort them home. They are warriors and protectors. They are guardians assigned by our Father to defend us in this dangerous world.

Hebrews 1:14 (NKJV)

Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?

If you are an heir of salvation, or if you will be one day, angels are ministering to you at Holy Spirit’s direction! When we look at the battle through a spiritual lens, we can clearly see we are on the winning side. The Holy Spirit of God lives within us! We have a full set of His armor and angels minister on our behalf! We are in a “cannot lose” scenario! Group Share: Do you have an active awareness that God is in you, that armor is available to you, and that angels protect you from demonic warfare? Or is your knowledge of these truths merely intellectual? In what ways can you live out these truths?

Natural and Spiritual Realities All believers deal with spiritual warfare whether they are aware of it or not, but many ignore the battle because it is unseen. We live in a sense-dominated world, and tend to respond only to what our eyes and ears direct us to, but spiritual realities are important as they impact our natural lives in profound ways. Much of what we think of as natural is really spiritual. We have discussed how our enemy is not flesh and blood but principalities, powers, rulers of darkness, and hosts of wickedness. Our armor in this battle is spiritual, and so are the enemy’s weapons against us. Fear, for example, is a spirit.

2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

This word “spirit” doesn’t refer to an emotion of fear. It is the Greek word “pneuma,” which Vine’s Dictionary defines this way:

Pneuma: primarily denotes “the wind”; also “breath”; then, especially “the spirit,” which, like the wind, is invisible, immaterial and powerful.

When we are overwhelmed by fear, it is more than a feeling. In a realm we cannot see, an invisible enemy called “fear” is blowing a powerful breath of opposition in an attempt to slow down or even stop any forward progress in our lives. Paul reminds Timothy that the spirit given to us by God is not this opposing spirit, but a superior Spirit—the Holy Spirit—who provides miraculous power, perfect love, and a calm and self-controlled mind. The Old Testament has similar examples of the spiritual realm impacting the natural.

Isaiah 61:3 (NKJV)

To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”

In Hebrew, the word for “spirit” is “ruach” and is synonymous with the Greek word “pnuema.”

Ruach: breath; air; strength; wind; breeze; spirit; courage; temper; Spirit.

These are spiritual exchanges. Every time you put on the part of your armor called “shoes of peace,” you defeat the spirit of fear. Whenever you put on the garment called “praise,” you remove the spirit called “heaviness.”

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These exchanges happen in our lives every day, and most often, we do not recognize them. When you choose to forgive rather than hold a grudge, you have gained ground in a spiritual battle. Love, joy, peace, and patience are fruits of the Spirit. They aren’t just pleasant attitudes; they are spiritual forces. Let’s look at this principle regarding the power of faith:

Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

The spiritual power of faith is explained here. Both faith and hope are fruits of Holy Spirit, so they are spiritual in nature, and yet here we read that they are substance and evidence, which are natural things. The spiritual force of faith grabs onto our hopes and brings them into a place we can access them naturally—with our five senses. This is an example of how the spiritual realm impacts the natural. Let’s read this in other translations to really grasp this point:

Hebrews 11:1 (AMP)

Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Hebrews 11:1 (TPT)

Now faith brings our hopes into reality and becomes the foundation needed to acquire the things we long for. It is all the evidence required to prove what is still unseen.

This is the power of faith in our lives! It is so powerful that the presence of faith is proof of answered prayer. This spiritual, unseen force has a great impact on our natural lives. In the same way, hate, fear, jealousy, rage, bitterness, lust, and greed are spiritual powers, and they produce a substance—a natural impact in our lives. We would make better choices if we recognized this! What is the Holy Spirit Saying to Me? Consider areas in your life where you have, intentionally or unintentionally, made good or bad choices in your spiritual life and have seen the impact in your natural life. How will you make better choices?

Impact with Intention It is not a matter of choosing whether or not we will live in the spiritual realm—we do live there. If we choose to ignore this truth, it doesn’t mean we don’t participate, it only means we do so ignorantly. The realities of the spiritual and natural realms are so intertwined that they have significant impact on one another, and because this is so, we want the impact to be with intention. We use our natural mouths to declare spiritual truths. We use our natural attitudes and actions to prove our alignment with God’s Word. Our spiritual armor and weapons such as truth, faith, righteousness, and peace have expression in our natural world. Prayer is one example of this. When we pray, our prayers break through to the very throne room of God, where the King of all Kings hears and acts on them. Holy Spirit brings answers to questions. Angels are dispatched to bring aid. All of this happens through prayer.

1 Peter 3:12 (NKJV) For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers…”

Naturally, we see the righteous one praying. What we don’t see is the eyes of the Lord upon that one, or His ears open to their prayers. The same principle applies when we read God’s Word. When Holy Spirit brings understanding, the light of truth shines to bring revelation. We cannot see the light, but our natural minds now comprehend spiritual truths that we can use in a way we can relate to. When we use our natural mouths to speak God’s Word in Jesus’ name, we are using the sword of the Spirit against evil beings who are on a mission to kill, steal, and destroy. These are real weapons! In our thinking, they are supernatural, but from God’s perspective, they are entirely natural. They really exist. When it comes to living an earthly life as a citizen of a spiritual kingdom, Jesus is our perfect example. The life He lived on this earth validates the existence of a spirit realm and shows us how we can be led by Holy Spirit ourselves. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus encountered people who were impacted by the spiritual realm of darkness. He interacted with those who were demon-possessed, inflicted with various sickness and disease, and who were in bondage to sin.

Mark 1:32–34 (NKJV)

Mark 16:9 (NKJV)

Now when He rose early on the first day of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom He had cast seven demons.

Acts 10:38 (NKJV)

At evening, when the sun had set, they brought to Him all who were sick and those who were demon-possessed. And the whole city was gathered together at the door. Then He healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and He did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew Him.

how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.

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Jesus operated in authority over every evil spirit He encountered as He rebuked demons and delivered people from their bondage. This isn’t surprising. Jesus is fully God after all, and the authority He walked in is easy for us to understand. What is less easy to grasp is that Jesus gave this authority to His followers. He gave it to you.

Mark 16:15–18 (NKJV)

And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

John 14:12–13 (NKJV)

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.

This is difficult to act upon because we have our eyes focused on the things that are seen, and our eyes tell us we have lack, failure, and weakness. No matter how much we try to fix ourselves, we will never receive a report from the seen realm that will encourage us to walk in the authority delegated to us. We will never look ready from that standpoint. We need to get our eyes off what we can see and put them on what we can’t see if we are ever to cooperate with the Holy Spirit of God in this earth.

Romans 8:11 (NKJV)

But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.

The Spirit who raised Jesus is the Spirit who dwells in you. When Jesus promised to send Holy Spirit to indwell and baptize the believer, He did not send a diminished version of Him; He came in all His power and majesty and authority. God wants to work supernaturally through natural people to do powerful things in this world. To see this accomplished in you, you are first going to have to believe it. What is the Holy Spirit Saying to Me? Take your eyes off your own deficiencies and ask yourself this question: Do I really believe God wants to work supernaturally through me to do powerful things in this world? Ask Holy Spirit to reveal any unbelief to you and repent of this.

Focus on What is Unseen When correct mindsets are established, correct behavior will follow and come naturally. You won’t have to wake up every day and consult a checklist to remind you to speak and act right if you have taken the time to make sure you think right. God’s Word tells us: as a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7). Jesus said the same thing:

Luke 6:45 (NKJV)

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

Simply said, if the Word of God is in your heart, then the Word of God, the sword of the Spirit, is going to come out of your mouth. And if the sword of the Spirit comes out of your mouth, this powerful spiritual weapon will defeat the spiritual forces coming against you to kill, steal, and destroy. Notice that the emphasis is on the heart, not the mind. Proverbs says we think in our heart. Jesus said we draw from the treasure of our heart. This goes beyond intellect and into the kind of knowledge that comes from relationship. Holy Spirit within us provides the treasure we draw from. So, when it comes to thinking right, it isn’t a matter of self-effort; it is a matter of focus. It has less to do with our will and more to do with what—or more importantly, who—we are looking at. If we want to think right, we must learn to focus on what we cannot see.

2 Corinthians 4:18 (NKJV)

while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

We are not to “look” at what we can see, but on the eternal realities we cannot see. This word “look” means “to take aim at; to regard.” Paul says to aim at what you can’t see. This means when we consider the circumstances of our lives on any given day, we do not forget to include what we cannot see along with what we can see. Then, when we have the complete list of facts—seen and unseen—we aim at the unseen by regarding it, considering it, and heeding it. There is a passage in 2 Kings that illustrates this. In this story, the king of Syria was making war against Israel, but every time he came up with a battle plan, the prophet Elisha foiled it by warning the king of Israel. The king of Syria looked for a traitor in his camp who might be betraying his secret plans, but his men told him what was happening: God was telling Elisha the words the king spoke in the privacy of his bedroom. So, the king of Syria sent a great army to seize Elisha.

2 Kings 6:15–17 (NLT)

When the servant of the man of God got up early the next morning and went outside, there were troops, horses, and chariots everywhere. “Oh, sir, what will we do now?” the young man cried to Elisha. “Don’t be afraid!” Elisha told him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” Then Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!” The Lord opened the young man’s eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire.

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There was no indication that Elisha saw these chariots of fire surrounding him, and yet he never panicked. He didn’t have to see the heavenly army to know it was there, and because he knew it was there, the sight of the enemy did not move him. Reading on in the story, Elisha prayed the enemy be blinded, God obliged, and he singlehandedly captured this entire army and delivered them to the king of Israel. This victory happened because Elisha aimed at what he could not see, rather than what he could see. In contrast, Elisha’s servant did not share his master’s confidence when he saw his natural circumstances. For this servant to not be afraid, he needed to know what Elisha knew—that there were more with them than against them. To know this, he needed his eyes to be opened to what he could not yet see, and this happened when Elisha prayed for him. The horses and chariots of fire did not appear at the point the servant saw them; they had always been there. If the servant had known this, he would never have been afraid. There are things you cannot see happening all around you. If you saw with natural eyes the angels protecting you, the power of the Word of God, and the effectiveness of your prayers, you would not be afraid. You would not feel powerless or weak or unqualified for the challenges you can see. We need to know what is true so we can aim at it! The best way to see the unseen is to focus your attention on the Word of God.

Psalm 1:1–3 (NKJV)

Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.

Meditation is a spiritual law that is so powerful, the enemy wants to steal it. The focus of meditation directed by the enemy is completely wrong however, so the results are exactly contrary to those the bornagain child of God gets when meditating on the Word. Write it: Read the following passage and note the benefits of mediating on God’s Word. Write these benefits in your own words:

Joshua 1:8–9 (NKJV)

This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Meditating on God’s Word was the foundation of Joshua’s prosperity, success, strength, and courage. He focused on what God said and it came out of his mouth and was observed in his actions. We could say that as Joshua thought in his heart, so was he.

Begin Now The realities of the spirit realm must be embraced by every believer. Given what it cost Jesus to provide all that He has, we must not be satisfied living in ignorance, pushing the realities of the Kingdom down the road to another time when we leave this natural world and faith is no longer required to embrace them. There is a considerable blessing in knowing now, and we must apply ourselves to ponder these truths until the abundance of what we put in our hearts flows out of our mouths and produces results in our lives. Do It: As we close this lesson, take time to focus on the spiritual truth of what Jesus did and the impact it has on your natural life. The following is a paraphrased version of The Passion Translation, changed only to personalize it with “I” and “me” statements. Read this slowly, asking Holy Spirit to reveal these precious truths to you in a way you have never seen them before. Choose this as a spiritual lens through which you see your life. Intentionally think of yourself in terms of what this passage says is true of you. Agree right now that this is written of you!

Ephesians 2:1–10 (TPT)

And his fullness fills me, even though I was once like a corpse, dead in my sins and offenses. I t wasn’t that long ago that I lived in the religion, customs, and values of this world, obeying the dark ruler of the earthly realm who fills the atmosphere with his authority, and works diligently in the hearts of those who are disobedient to the truth of God. The corruption that was in me from birth was expressed through the deeds and desires of my self-life. I lived by whatever natural cravings and thoughts my mind dictated, living as a rebellious child subject to God’s wrath like everyone else.

But God still loved me with such great love. He is so rich in compassion and mercy. Even when I was dead and doomed in my many sins, he united me into the very life of Christ and saved me by his wonderful grace! He raised me up with Christ the exalted One, and I ascended with him into the glorious perfection and authority of the heavenly realm, for I am now co-seated as one with Christ!

Throughout the coming ages I will be the visible display of the infinite, limitless riches of his grace and kindness, which was showered upon me in Jesus Christ. For it was only through this wonderful grace that I believed in him. Nothing I did could ever earn this salvation, for it was the gracious gift from God that brought me to Christ! So no one will ever be able to boast, for salvation is never a reward for good works or human striving. I have become his poetry, a re-created person that will fulfill the destiny he has given each of us, for I am joined to Jesus, the Anointed One.

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THE SPIRITFILLED LIFE IS NOT A SPECIAL, DELUXE EDITION OF CHRISTIANITY. IT IS PART AND PARCEL OF THE TOTAL PLAN OF GOD FOR HIS PEOPLE. A.W. Tozer 17

LESSON 2

The Fullness of Holy Spirit In our last lesson, we looked at the reality of a spiritual realm and its impact on our natural lives. Now, let’s focus our attention on the primary Person in this realm. Holy Spirit is the member of the trinity, one with the Father and with Jesus, who indwells the believer here on this natural earth. This is another of those truths that many believers intellectually know yet do not fully appreciate because it is beyond what mere intellect can grasp. Holy Spirit must reveal this truth to us because without a revelation, we will live powerless in this world even though all the power we need to be an overcomer is right there inside of us. The importance of knowing this is likely why Paul asked the Corinthians the same question twice in one letter:

1 Corinthians 3:16 (NKJV)

Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?

1 Corinthians 6:19 (NKJV)

Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?

Do you not know? God lives in you! There is no possible way to put a value on this! The indwelling of Holy Spirit is so awesome, so wonderful, so profound, and so precious that it is not possible to fully appreciate it. He is so beautiful, so powerful, so wise, and so holy—yet He stoops down to live in us. We could devote our lives to seeking out the treasures in this one truth and still never come close to properly esteeming it. Say it: In our last lesson, we discussed the importance of focusing on what is unseen by mediating on truth for the purpose of aiming at it. Let’s do that now. Consider this unseen reality. Turn it over in your mind, ponder it, reflect upon it, and aim your life towards it. Read this phrase out loud, placing emphasis on each of the words one at a time: God lives in me. God lives in me. God lives in me. God lives in me. With that beautiful truth top of mind, let’s now discuss what it means to have the fullness of Holy Spirit!

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The Promise is For You

Ephesians 5:18 (NKJV)

And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit,

Paul wrote this to believers, and he told them to be filled with the Spirit. This means there must be more of the Spirit for us to partake in than that which is provided by the initial salvation experience. The Greek word translated “filled” means to make complete, to cram, to level up, to furnish, to satisfy, to execute, to finish, to verify. The Amplified Bible tells us to “ever be filled and stimulated with the Holy Spirit.” This is a continual filling as we invite Holy Spirit to finish His work in us by ever cramming us full of Himself until we have leveled-up and are satisfied! This work in us isn’t complete at salvation, it just begins there. The moment you believed the gospel, Holy Spirit sealed your spirit, and you became a born-again child of God.

Ephesians 1:13 (NKJV)

In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,

This word “sealed” means to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation; to keep secret, to attest. Every believer is sealed with the stamp of the Spirit to confirm you belong to God. This sealing is a beautiful and profound moment, but too many believers stop there, never appropriating the fullness of the Spirit. The prophet Joel said this fullness would come in the form of an outpouring (Joel 2:28). Jesus told His disciples to wait for this.

Acts 1:4–5 (NKJV)

And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

This word “baptized” means to submerge, immerse, cover, or bury, to overwhelm. The Bible speaks of being in Christ and of Christ being in you. Both of these are true. In the same way, Holy Spirit is in the believer (to seal and preserve), and the believer is in Holy Spirit (is baptized or submerged). The fullness of the Spirit is to have Him both in you and on you. What He does in you is for your benefit; what He does on you is for the benefit of others.

Acts 2:38–39 (NKJV)

Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”

This promise is for you. You have been invited to be overwhelmed by Holy Spirit and receive of His fullness! What is Holy Spirit Saying to Me? Reread the above verse, noting the instructions Peter gave. Have you repented? Have you been water baptized? Have you received the gift of the Spirit? What is your next step in pursuing Him? Will you make this step? Note what He tells you. 19

The Purpose of Fullness We need Holy Spirit to not only seal but also baptize us. Jesus told why:

Acts 1:8 (NKJV)

But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.

We need baptism because we need power. As Jesus left this earth, He instructed His disciples to go into the world, preach the gospel, and make disciples. We know this as the Great Commission, and it is the driving force behind the mission of the Church even 2,000 years later. But, to get the full picture of this commissioning, we need all three accounts—Matthew’s, Mark’s, and Luke’s.

Matthew 28:18-20 (NKJV)

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

The Commission as written in Matthew gives us the assignment and tells us where the authority to complete it comes from. We are to go, make disciples, baptize, and teach. All authority was given to Jesus. “Go therefore” tells us He expects us to use His authority to carry out the task.

Mark 16:15-18 (NKJV)

And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

The Commission recorded in Mark gives the same assignment, but it also states the results of carrying it out. Signs would follow the believer who would cast out demons, speak with new tongues, take up serpents, be unaffected by poison, and heal the sick. So now we know the assignment, the authority in which we carry it out, and the results to expect as we obey. But what about the ability to accomplish this great task? Luke tells us where the power comes from:

Luke 24:46-49 (NKJV)

Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”

EMPOWER BOOKLET

Here again, we read Jesus instructing us to be a witness of Him to all the nations, but Luke adds additional instruction that Matthew and Mark did not. He said before you go, tarry. Don’t go anywhere until you are endued with power from on high. The Greek word for “endued” means “a sinking into a garment.” The Amplified Bible says to be “clothed” with power. We are to wait for the promised Holy Spirit to baptize, overwhelm, and clothe us with power. Jesus gave us a big assignment, but He never expected us to carry it out on our own. If we go out and try to accomplish the Great Commission without the authority spoken of in Matthew and the power Jesus promised in Luke, we will not see the results He guaranteed in Mark. This is why Jesus told us to abide in the vine. He said without Him, we can’t do anything!

John 15:5 (NKJV)

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

Are we trying to carry out this assignment—one far too big for us—without Him? Are we doing it for Him instead of with Him? If we aren’t getting Mark results, then we must be missing something. Jesus told His disciples: you know what to do and you know what it will look like, but don’t get started until you are wearing power. He said to tarry until this power was given. We need to heed these same instructions today.

Trying to do the Lord’s work in your own strength is the most confusing, exhausting, and tedious of all work. But when you are filled with the Holy Spirit, then the ministry of Jesus just flows out of you. Corrie Ten Boom

Group Share: Consider the full picture of the Great Commission. We can attempt to obey this command by working for God in our own strength, or by working with God and allowing the ministry of Jesus to flow out naturally, by the power of His Spirit. Discuss the difference.

Who He Is Holy Spirit is the member of the Godhead, present in the earth now, in the innermost being of every believer. He was not sent to take this place within us to live there quiet and forgotten. He is here to be our Helper, Comforter, Counselor, Teacher, and the power of God within us! He is the source of the fruit and gifts we want to see in our lives. We must live more aware of His active, personal involvement in us! Let’s get to know the God who dwells in the believer. Holy Spirit did not appear on the scene in the book of Acts; He was there from the beginning at creation (Genesis 1:1-3) and was spoken of throughout the Old Testament. In fact, much of what we know Holy Spirit does in and through the believer in the New Testament, He also did in the Old.

• • • • • • • •

He was grieved by rebellion – Isaiah 63:10 He strengthened – Judges 14:5-6; 15:14 He empowered leaders – 1 Samuel 16:13 He instructed – Nehemiah 9:20 He gave understanding – Job 32:8 He gave courage – Haggai 2:5 He stirred creativity – Exodus 31:3 He enabled – Zechariah 4:6

This is the same Holy Spirit we know and love today! He hasn’t changed! What has changed, is the way He dwells with us. In the Old Testament, Holy Spirit did not dwell in every believer. When He did come upon a certain one, that one feared the Spirit would leave him when he sinned. David experienced this fear, and he prayed this way:

Psalm 51:10–11 (NKJV)

Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.

After Pentecost, the believer does not need to fear Holy Spirit being taken from them, as Jesus promised He would be with us forever.

John 14:16–17 (NKJV)

And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.

This does not mean we can no longer grieve Holy Spirit as David did. Paul instructs us in Ephesians 4:30 that we should not grieve Him. However, He will not leave us when we do. David would have been so blessed by this assurance we take for granted every day! If Old Testament saints are hanging over the railings of Heaven watching us run our race, they would likely tell us to pay attention to these truths and esteem them more than we do. The only way to esteem a truth more is to ponder it—aim at it—until Holy Spirit brings revelation.

EMPOWER BOOKLET

What is Holy Spirit Saying to Me? Read the following verses and note what each Scripture reveals about the One who lives in you. Do not rush through this exercise. Think about the descriptive words you are reading. Note what He tells you.

Romans 8:14–17 (NKJV)

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.

John 16:13–14 (NKJV)

However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.

Romans 8:26 (NKJV)

Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

Romans 8:9–11 (NKJV)

But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.

What He does IN us Holy Spirit came to this earth after Jesus left it, to be to the disciples what Jesus had been to them. He is this for us as well. Do you know Him that way? Do you think of Him that way, regard Him that way, and treat Him that way? Don’t just know the doctrine; know the person. See Him as your Friend. Let Him have full reign in your life.

If we think of the Holy Spirit, as so many do, as merely a power or influence, our constant thought will be, “How can I get more of the Holy Spirit?” But if we think of Him in the biblical way as a divine person, our thought will instead be, “How can the Holy Spirit have more of me?” R.A. Torrey

As you give more of you over to Holy Spirit, powerful things begin to happen, and the first person who benefits from this power is you. Holy Spirit gives gifts, and He provides power, but He also does a deep work in the believer.

Galatians 5:22–25 (NKJV)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

Before we get about the business of what He does through us for others, let’s make sure we are cooperating with Him to accomplish the work that must be done in us. We must allow Him to cultivate His fruit in us. We must learn to walk in the Spirit. Group Share: Share ways we can learn to walk in the Spirit. Gifts are given quickly—fruit must grow. Without this fruit, we will misuse the gifts and do harm to the body. The gifts and call of God are irrevocable (Romans 11:29), so they continue to operate even in an immature believer. The fruit of the Spirit is very important!

2 Corinthians 3:5–6 (NKJV)

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God, who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

God made Paul a sufficient minister. He was converted on the road to Damascus and received his instructions shortly after, but he didn’t take off running to complete his task until he received this sufficiency from God. You could say Paul tarried until he was endued with power. He allowed God within him—Holy Spirit—to cultivate the fruit that would be necessary to steward the gifts and call he had been given in the honorable way they deserved. In order to be sufficient ministers of the gospel, we must cooperate with the Spirit as He cultivates this fruit in us. If we do not become rooted and grounded in Him, we will not operate effectively in His gifts. We see evidence of this happening in the Church today as well-meaning people minister gifts without fruit, causing damage. Because this happens, many are afraid of pursuing the gifts. Some back away from Holy Spirit altogether. Paul gives us much information about the gifts of Holy Spirit, and we will look into this in detail in our next lessons. But, with all the instruction Paul gave about these gifts, he spoke even more of the fruit he wanted to see in those he ministered to. He told the Colossians he never ceased praying for them… EMPOWER BOOKLET

Colossians 1:9–12 (NKJV)

…to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.

We want to walk worthy of the Lord and be fully pleasing to Him and fruitful in every good work. We cannot do any of this without the direct involvement of Holy Spirit. Thankfully, we are never without His direct involvement! He is so intimately involved in our growth and learning that one of the names used to refer to Holy Spirit is that He is our Helper.

John 14:26 (NKJV)

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

The word translated “helper” in this verse is the Greek word, “paraclete,” a word with many applications. A paraclete is one who is called to one’s side to give aid. He is an advocate who pleads the cause of another and who comforts and assists in times of distress. Rather than choose one English word to try and express all this, the Amplified Bible uses them all:

John 14:26 (AMP)

But the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will cause you to recall (will remind you of, bring to your remembrance) everything I have told you.

Holy Spirit is right there by your side! He is there to comfort, help, and advocate for you! He does this in any situation we find ourselves in. Since we have His divine help, we must avail ourselves of it. We must grow up in Him and give Him free reign to produce His fruit in us. We represent Him, and we need to act like it!

Ephesians 4:1–3 (NKJV)

I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

The most important fruit to cultivate is love. It is so essential that Paul places a chapter about love between two chapters which speak of the Spirit’s gifts. This chapter is not out of place in the middle of this discussion. Love is the fruit that adds value to the gifts. Without love, we are nothing and have nothing!

1 Corinthians 13:1–8 (NKJV)

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.

Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.

Love isn’t a feeling; love is a force. Reading this description of love, it is obvious why we need Holy Spirit’s help in cultivating this fruit in our lives. Paul prayed for the believers in Ephesus, that they would both know love and be rooted and grounded in it themselves:

Ephesians 3:14–19 (NKJV)

For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

This is a prayer we can pray for ourselves and for each other as we endeavor to become rooted and grounded in love. There are riches of the glory of Jesus and from those riches, we can be strengthened with might through His Spirit. When we are rooted and grounded in love, we will comprehend Christ’s love for us—a love so big there are dimensions to it. This is a love that is beyond intellect and Paul said by knowing it, we will be filled with the fullness of God. This is that fulness we are talking about, and this is for you. This revelation is yours for the seeking and Holy Spirit is right there within you, waiting to reveal it to you. This is what He desires to do in you! Do It: Commit to pursuing a revelation of the profound love God has for you by praying for it. Read again the Ephesians prayer, personalizing it for yourself. Ask the Father to cultivate in you the fruit you will need to properly represent Him. Choose now to place a pursuit of Jesus Himself before a pursuit of gifts. When Holy Spirit’s work is well underway, we are ready to experience the rest of this passage in Ephesians 3: that which Holy Spirit desires to do through us.

Ephesians 3:20–21 (NKJV)

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

EMPOWER BOOKLET

What He does THROUGH us When we cooperate with Holy Spirit, we grow in the Lord. He guides us into all truth, and we become established in our faith and Christlike in our character. As fruit grows, we are ready to steward the Spirit’s gifts. In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul explains there are different kinds of gifts and service and that Holy Spirit distributes to each one individually as He wills (12:11). In other words, it’s His call. He is the Giver, and He determines the appropriate gift for each one. But having said this, Paul also adds:

1 Corinthians 12:31a (NKJV)

But earnestly desire the best gifts.

When we “earnestly desire” something, we aren’t casual about it. This is not a “that-would-be-nice-tohave” mindset, but a desire with action behind it. The Passion Translation says we should, “all constantly boil over with passion in seeking the higher gifts.” If you want to see gifts operating in your life, you are going to need a desire so strong, it produces active seeking.

Galatians 3:5 (NKJV)

Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you, does He do it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

Holy Spirit does not fill you because you earned it, but rather because you believe. Faith is the only prerequisite! In our last lesson, we looked at faith as a spiritual power, not an intellectual mindset. Faith is an inward confidence and reliance on God that grabs hold of the things we hope for and pulls them into the natural realm. We could say faith gives substance to the things we earnestly desire—things like spiritual gifts! James tells us that “faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). Applied here, if we believe Holy Spirit is giving these gifts and that God intends for us to have them, our faith is going to produce action. The action isn’t the starting point, faith is. The actions that result of our earnest pursuit of the gifts will be a natural outflow of our belief that we can have them.

Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV)

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Paul said you were created to do good works. He said God prepared these works beforehand—before you were born, before you knew about them, before you were ready for them. If you are supposed to do them then surely, He is willing to equip you with everything you need! Just as in the Great Commission, we have a task to complete, but also the authority and power to carry it out. Do you believe this? Do you really believe this? If you do, you will seek Him for the call and the necessary equipping. Your acts of seeking come from your faith.

Matthew 21:22 (NKJV)

And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”

Mark 11:24 (NKJV)

Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

John 16:23–24 (NKJV)

…Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.

In all these passages, Jesus tells His people to ask. This Greek word translated “ask” can also be translated as “beg, call for, crave, desire, or require.” As we earnestly desire, crave, and require the best gifts, we are to ask believing Jesus meant it when He made these promises. It is then that we receive. Many of the promises of God are so amazing, we back away from asking for them because we don’t believe we deserve them—and we don’t! But that is why faith and not works are required to receive. It isn’t humility to refuse to ask or to desire the best gifts because of unworthiness. True humility doesn’t consider self-worth at all—it considers the worth of God.

1 Peter 5:6–7 (NKJV)

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

As you seek diligently for the gifts you desire, do so with an awareness of your dependence upon Holy Spirit. Humble yourself under God’s mighty hand. As you take this posture, God Himself will exalt you—in due time. In other words, in His own timing, not yours. Lay your impatience aside! This is part of humility! As God grants His gifts we aren’t going to go off and do the work ourselves anyway, so we may as well get used to humility as it will be our posture continually. This is a relationship of constant dependence. We do not need to wait to pursue the Spirit’s gifts until we are perfect—that day will never come. Go ahead and put all your passion and strength into seeking Him. There is nothing you can give Him in your pursuit that will outdo His reward. Do It: Do you really believe you are God’s workmanship and that you were created in Christ Jesus for good works? Do you really believe God prepared these works for you? Repent for any unbelief that has kept you from asking for the equipping you need to walk in these works. Read again the passages referencing asking, believing, and receiving on the previous page to build your faith. Now, full of faith in God’s promises—ask. Let your passion boil over inside you as you humbly seek the higher gifts, believing He intends for you to have them. Allow time for Holy Spirit to speak and instruct you and note what He tells you.

EMPOWER BOOKLET

SINCE THE DAYS OF PENTECOST, HAS THE WHOLE CHURCH EVER PUT ASIDE EVERY OTHER WORK AND WAITED UPON HIM FOR TEN DAYS, THAT THE SPIRIT’S POWER MIGHT BE MANIFESTED? WE GIVE TOO MUCH ATTENTION TO METHOD AND MACHINERY AND RESOURCES, AND TOO LITTLE TO THE SOURCE OF POWER. Hudson Taylor

LESSON 3

What are Spiritual Gifts? Have you ever been misinformed or ignorant about someone or something? You genuinely thought you knew something, but later learned that you were mistaken. Perhaps you only had part of the story or were lacking key data or facts. Perhaps you were told something that simply was not true. Or you experienced something that was “off” so you decided to play it safe and no longer pursue anything more about that person or topic. Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common when people begin to explore spiritual gifts. We say things like: • “I prefer to focus on Jesus and the Word of God.” • “The gifts of the Spirit are just for the pastors and leaders in the church, not me.” • “Aren’t those charismatics kind of strange?” • “I attended a service once when things just got crazy, so I put all that Holy Spirit stuff on a shelf.” • “I was told that all that stopped long ago.” GROUP SHARE: Discuss your personal experience with Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts. What were you taught? What have you experienced? Why are you participating in this study?

EMPOWER BOOKLET

Don’t Be Ignorant If you know very little about Holy Spirit or are uninformed about spiritual gifts, you are not alone. This was true in the early church and, unfortunately, remains true today for many Christians.

Acts 19:1-6 NKJV

And it happened, while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper regions, came to Ephesus. And finding some disciples he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” So they said to him, “We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.” And he said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?” So they said, “Into John’s baptism.” Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.” When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.

Who did Paul encounter when in Ephesus? What did he ask them? What was their response? What happened after he laid hands on them? Like these believers in Ephesus, we are to continually take steps of faith as we grow as Christians. After believing in Jesus and becoming His disciples, they took the next step and were water baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then, they were baptized in the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues and began to operate in the gifts of the spirit when they prophesied. What a transformation – from not having heard whether there is a Holy Spirit, to being filled by the Holy Spirit when He came upon them, to operating in the gifts of the spirit. Paul’s desire was to ensure that these Christians knew about Holy Spirit and His gifts. He shared a similar desire when writing to the church in Corinth.

1 Corinthians 12:1 NKJV

Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant.

Unlike the believers Paul encountered in Ephesus, the believers in the church at Corinth already knew about the gifts of the Holy Spirit, but they were ignorant about how to flow in the gifts in a healthy, helpful, and balanced way. Said another way, they didn’t know what they didn’t know. The word “ignorant” from 1 Corinthians 12:1 is also translated: • Uninformed • Confused • To misunderstand The implication is clear – Don’t be ignorant! Get informed, clear up confusion and misunderstanding about what you don’t know. This means that we are to study spiritual gifts, look to other mature believers for guidance and help, pray and ask for God’s grace and direction, and encourage each other to take the next steps. There is ample instruction in the Word of God about how Holy Spirit operates and how we are to respond. The first response is to accept that you have spiritual gifts! 31

Everyone Has Received Spiritual Gifts If you are a born-again Christian, you (yes you!) have received spiritual gifts!

1 Peter 4:10 NKJV

As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Let’s look closely at 1 Peter 4:10.

• First, notice that it says “each one” has received a gift. The words translated “each one” are from the Greek word hekasto, which literally means every single person, no one excluded. It is an allinclusive word. This means that all born-again believers have been supernaturally endowed with gifts from God. No one is excluded from these God-given gifts.

• Second, notice that it says “has received” a gift. The Greek word translated received in this verse is lambano, which implies taking hold of or embracing something. Thus, we see in 1 Peter 4:10 that our responsibility is to receive them by faith. The Spirit of God is the giver of the gifts. The gifts are not earned or deserved; they are received.

• Third, Peter says what we receive is a “gift.” This word is from the Greek word charisma. It’s the most familiar term used in the Bible for gifts. It is derived from the word charis, the Greek word for grace. Thus, charisma speaks to grace-given gifts. These gifts are a gracious work of God or something God’s grace has bestowed. They are gifts of holy grace – gifts imparted supernaturally and divinely by God’s grace.

• Fourth, Peter instructs us to use the gifts to “minister” to one another. These gifts are not “for show” or to “puff up” those that operate in them. The Greek word translated minister in this verse is diakoneo, which implies a servant whose responsibility is to serve food and to wait tables. A committed, conscientious servant who is genuinely dedicated to doing his job with excellence.

• Fifth, Peter instructs us to minister as good “stewards” of the manifold grace of God. In other words, it’s all about Him, and not us! We are to operate in the gifts knowing that they are God’s own personal treasures. As stewards, we know that they are His, He gets the glory, and we are to only operate and flow in them as we genuinely follow the Spirit of God.

GROUP SHARE: Review the five principles about spiritual gifts from 1 Peter 4:10. Which of these were most meaningful to you? Why? Discuss a new revelation you’ve received about spiritual gifts.

EMPOWER BOOKLET

The Nine Gifts of the Holy Spirit Before we explore the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit, let’s pause and define what “spiritual gift” means. What are spiritual gifts? Spiritual gifts are the God-given, divinely empowered capacity to minister life and serve by communicating or demonstrating the knowledge, power and love of Jesus. • God-given: They are from God; He distributes them as He wills • Divinely empowered capacity: They are His grace at work; they are supernatural • Minister life: They bring life, healing and hope; they are for the good of others • Serving, communicating, or demonstrating: They operate as service, words or manifestations • Knowledge, power and love: They bring God’s knowledge, supernatural ability and love “Spiritual gifts are nothing less than God himself in us, energizing our souls, imparting revelation to our minds, infusing power in our wills, and working his sovereign and gracious purposes through us.”

Sam Storms. WHAT IS THE HOLY SPIRIT SAYING TO ME? Reread the above definition of spiritual gifts. Note the part(s) of the definition that stood out to you most. Why?

The nine gifts of the Holy Spirit

1 Corinthians 12:8-10

For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.

WRITE IT: List the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit from 1 Corinthians 12:8-10.

The nine gifts of the Holy Spirit are generally divided into three groups: • Revelation Gifts: a word of wisdom, a word of knowledge and the discerning of spirits • Power Gifts: the gift of faith, the working of miracles and the gifts of healings • Utterance or Inspiration Gifts: prophecy, different kinds of tongues, interpretation of tongues

Revelation Gifts – Gifts That KNOW Something: Through the revelation gifts, God reveals certain facts that man would not know except through divine revelation. The word of wisdom: Supernatural insight into or revelation about the plans and purposes of God. It is a specific word of God’s wisdom that deals with things of the future, not the present or the past. It is not ordinary wisdom (or guidance) from God. A word of wisdom gives us revelation of the plans and purposes in the mind of God.

The word of knowledge: Supernatural revelation of facts concerning people, places or things. It deals with the present or past, not the future. It is a specific word of knowledge, not general knowledge. It involves facts given by God which the recipient has no other way of knowing. It is not ordinary guidance from God. A word of knowledge gives us revelation of facts from the present or the past.

The discerning of spirits: Supernatural insight into the realm of the spirit that cannot be perceived by our natural senses. It involves discerning (recognizing, perceiving, seeing clearly or hearing) spirits that exist in the spirit realm. These can be divine, demonic or human.

Power Gifts – Gifts that DO Something: Through the power gifts, God imparts His own divine powers and abilities to man. The power gifts involve supernatural ability that man does not naturally possess. The gift of faith: Supernatural unwavering trust in God which enables someone to receive a miracle. It is special faith. No human effort is involved. It is beyond general faith or saving faith whereby the believer is empowered with wonder-working faith.

The working of miracles: Supernatural intervention by God in which the laws of nature are suspended, altered, or controlled. God uses the believer in whom this gift operates to “work” the miracle. A human (as an instrument) is always involved. When the working of miracles is in manifestation, there is a divine intervention of God in the ordinary course of nature.

The gifts of healings: Supernatural healing of sicknesses or diseases. The gifts of healings involve no natural source or means. They have nothing to do with medical science, human learning or efforts.

Utterance or Inspiration Gifts – Gifts that SAY Something: Through the utterance or inspiration gifts, God brings His blessing and anointing to the church. The full blessing of the gifts of utterance or inspiration include edification, exhortation, and comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3). Prophecy: Supernatural utterance in a known language. The simple gift of prophecy is for three reasons: edification, exhortation, and comfort. The simple gift of prophecy is not foretelling the future. The office of the prophet (Ephesians 4:8-12) predicts the future. The gift of prophecy is supernatural utterance that speaks the treasures of God to the body of Christ.

Different kinds of tongues: Supernatural utterance in other tongues (languages) which is accompanied by an interpretation so that the hearers may benefit. Tongues and interpretation of tongues always appear together when used in a public assembly.

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Interpretation of tongues: Supernatural verbalization of the meaning of an utterance in tongues. It is not a word-for-word translation. It reveals the meaning of what was shared in tongues. The interpretation reveals what God wants us to know. Tongues and the interpretation of tongues equal the gift of prophecy.

GROUP SHARE: After reading the above definitions of the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit, discuss the following questions: What surprised you? Which gifts intrigue you the most? Which gifts create the most angst? The most excitement? Are there more spiritual gifts? Yes. In addition to the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, we learn about additional gifts in Romans and Ephesians.

Gifts of the Father: In Romans 12:6-8 we learn about the gifts of the Father (prophecy, serving, teaching, exhortation, giving, administration and mercy). These are sometimes referred to as the “motivational” gifts. You could think of them as the “basic inward drive” that God puts into believers to carry out their ministry. We tend to view others and circumstances through our motivational gift. Every Christian has one or more of the motivational gifts. These gifts are the unique way Holy Spirit “energizes” believers to action. For example, those with the gift of serving are naturally motivated to meet specific serving or ministry needs, those with the gift of administration are naturally motivated to organize and lead projects or teams.

Gifts of the Son: In Ephesians 4:11-12 we learn about the gifts of the Son (apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor and teacher). These are sometimes referred to as the “ministry office” gifts. These gifts are given to the church “for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” Ephesians 4:12.

Additional Gifts: There are also gifts mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:28 (helps), 1 Corinthians 7:7 (celibacy), 1 Corinthians 13:3 (voluntary poverty and martyrdom), Ephesians 3:6-8 (missionary), 1 Peter 4:9 (hospitality), and Exodus 31:1-6 (skilled craftsman).

This list is not meant to be exhaustive. Rather, it is shared to demonstrate how creative and purposeful God is when building the church. Everyone is needed because we all have assignments and a supply to give.

Ephesians 2:10 NKJV

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

2 Timothy 1:7 MSG

God doesn’t want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.

Romans 12:4-5 TPT

In the human body there are many parts and organs, each with a unique function. And so it is in the body of Christ. For though we are many, we’ve all been mingled into one body in Christ. This means that we are all vitally joined to one another, with each contributing to the others.

Proverbs 22:6 AMPC

Train up a child in the way he should go [and in keeping with his individual gift or bent], and when he is old he will not depart from it.

WRITE IT: Write what you learned after reading the above verses.

(Note: This study focuses on the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit. Lessons 4-6 will discuss the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit in greater detail.)

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Learning to Operate in the Gifts Learning to operate (or flow) in the gifts of the spirit is like learning how to ride a bike. It’s not wise to start at the top of a large hill and just take off at full speed barreling down the hill as fast as you can. You could, but most likely things wouldn’t go well. Chances are you’d crash, injuring yourself and possibly others. You’d likely damage your bike and a tree, bush or parked car. And you’d need time to heal physically and emotionally from the experience. Most of us learned to ride a bike by practicing with training wheels. This helped with balance and built our confidence. We noticed how older siblings or friends rode their bikes. Our parents made sure that we put on a helmet, kept us on a limited path or in a cul-de-sac, and taught us to stop at a stop sign. Then when the day came to take off our training wheels, we took this step with them running alongside cheering us on! They were at the ready with a hug if we crashed and then encouraged us to try again! Finally, we did it! We were riding our bike all by ourselves! We should approach learning how to operate in the gifts in a similar way: begin with training wheels, start in a safe place, pedal at a healthy pace, watch what other good bike riders do, and listen to the advice and help of parents. And when you “fall down” get back up and try again.

Practical Things to Keep in Mind When Learning to Operate in the Gifts The fruit of the spirit (especially love) is the foundation for the effective exercise of spiritual gifts. The Corinthians had a tremendous gift mix, and they were extremely charismatic. However, Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 that the gifts are useless without love!

Galatians 22-23 NKJV

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NKJV

Give God all the glory. We must avoid “taking credit” and operating in the gifts in a prideful way. They have everything to do with Him, and nothing to do with you! Peter encourages Christians to use their gifts in 1 Peter 4:10 and then in verse 11 reminds us that all the glory belongs to God!

1 Peter 4:11 NKJV

If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Confirmation from other Christians serves as a healthy check. We must avoid the trap of operating by our feelings. You may feel strongly that you are called to minister a certain way. But if you continue to do so without fruit and confirmation from the body, you may be out of order, or ahead of what God is doing. As you step out in faith, allow others to confirm what God is doing.

1 Corinthians 14:29 NLT

Let two or three people prophesy, and let the others evaluate what is said.

The solution to abuse is not forbidding the gifts. The solution is healthy, proper use of the gifts. The church in Corinth was operating in the gifts, but they were dysfunctional and not doing so in a healthy and orderly way. However, Paul told the church in Corinth to earnestly seek for more (1 Corinthians 12:31, 14:1, 39). He did not forbid them from operating in the gifts. He did not teach disuse of the gifts (as some do today), He taught them how to operate in the gifts in a healthy and balanced way.

1 Corinthians 14:12-14 NKJV

Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel. Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.

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1 Corinthians 14:26-29 NKJV

How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.

You can control yourself. Don’t fall for the lie that you simply can’t control yourself when operating in the gifts. You can. Holy Spirit is gentle. He is like a dove. He does not push His way in and force you to do or say anything. You must cooperate with Him by faith.

1 Corinthians 14:32 AMP

For the spirits of prophets are subject to the prophets [the prophecy is under the speaker’s control, and he can stop speaking].

Recognize that even mature believers can be led by their flesh. Keep your heart soft and a spirit of humility as you begin to operate in the gifts. Nobody is perfect. Chances are there will be times when you miss it. Even though we are born again and spirit-filled, each of us can still be led by the flesh. If you are pushy and easily offended when attempting to operate in the gifts, you are being led by your flesh. If what you say or demonstrate draws more attention to you than Jesus, you are operating in the flesh.

Revelation 19:10 AMP

For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy [His life and teaching are the heart of prophecy].

Learn to receive and accept correction. Be open to healthy correction from spiritual leaders. Learn to operate in the gifts within the guidelines of your church or ministry and to submit whatever you have to share to mature believers and leaders. Trust your leaders to create the proper balance of liberty and order as the gifts are released.

Hebrews 13:17 AMP

Obey your [spiritual] leaders and submit to them [recognizing their authority over you], for they are keeping watch over your souls and continually guarding your spiritual welfare as those who will give an account [of their stewardship of you]. Let them do this with joy and not with grief and groans, for this would be of no benefit to you.

Recognize that there are differences and diversities of gifts, ministries and activities. Don’t compare. Just be yourself when operating in the gits. God will minister His gits to others through our own unique personality and style. Use what God gives you to build up and edify others.

1 Corinthians 12:4-7 NKJV

There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.

1 Corinthians 14:26 NKJV

How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.

Each of the nine gifts of the spirit are available to you. Desire them. Spiritual gifts are not reserved for some group of “super” Christians, pastors, elders or deacons. They are available to all Christians. We are to earnestly desire them.

1 Corinthians 12:11 NKJV

But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.

1 Corinthians 14:1 AMPC Eagerly pursue and seek to acquire [this] love [make it your aim, your great quest]; and earnestly desire and cultivate the spiritual endowments (gifts), especially that you may prophesy (interpret the divine will and purpose in inspired preaching and teaching).

1 Corinthians 12:7 MSG

Each person is given something to do that shows who God is: Everyone gets in on it, everyone benefits. All kinds of things are handed out by the Spirit, and to all kinds of people!

Don’t compare your gifts or ministry to others. God gives gifts as He Wills. Use yours by faith. God distributes gifts according to His perfect plan. We don’t choose our gifts, they come through God’s grace. God’s grace enables you to operate in the gifts and achieve His results. You will be satisfied and fulfilled when you step into what God has called you to do. He knows what’s best.

1 Corinthian 12:11 TPT

Remember, it is the same Holy Spirit who distributes, activates, and operates these different gifts as he chooses for each believer.

Romans 12:6-9 NKJV

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Hebrews 2:4 TPT

Then God added his witness to theirs. He validated their ministry with signs, astonishing wonders, all kinds of powerful miracles, and by the gifts of the Holy Spirit, which he distributed as he desired.

Receive the gifts that are in others. We need all of the parts of the body operating in their gifts. God designed the body of Christ as a living organism. Jesus is the head, and each member functions as a part of the body. God determines the function and place of each individual member. Every part of the body has a supply and is to do their share.

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Romans 12:4-6a NKJV

For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them…

Matthew 10:41 NKJV

He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward.

Romans 11:1-2 AMPC

For I am yearning to see you, that I may impart and share with you some spiritual gift to strengthen and establish you; That is, that we may be mutually strengthened and encouraged and comforted by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.

WHAT IS THE HOLY SPIRIT SAYING TO ME? Which of the practical reminders were most meaningful to you? How is He asking you to respond?

DO IT. Ask Holy Spirit to show you your next steps. Start by spending time praying, helping, serving, giving and encouraging others. Remember, don’t search for your gifts, discover them as you love others. Make it a practice to pray in the Spirit. Your prayer language is a pathway to the gifts. Meet with mature believers that are flowing in the gifts. Spend time with them when they are flowing in the gifts.

JUST LET THE GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT BEGIN TO FUNCTION AND PEOPLE WILL POUR INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD. Lester Sumrall

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LESSON 4

Revelation Gifts From the day of our birth, we begin a life-long journey – a journey of learning. We learn about different sounds, hot vs. cold, light and dark, the alphabet and basic math. We learn how to work independently and in teams. We discover things that we’re naturally good at and the strengths of others. We gain insights and understanding about “how things work” as we participate in various activities or do certain projects. There’s just something in us that wants to know things, gain information and operate our lives with insight, discernment and wisdom. Of course, learning happens both formally and informally. Formal learning in school or independent study provides baseline facts or knowledge. Informal learning, through experience and our relationships with others, provides opportunities to put our learning into practice. This can lead to wisdom and greater discernment. Throughout the Scriptures, we are encouraged to intentionally seek, acquire and use wisdom, knowledge and discernment. James 1:5 AMP

If any of you lacks wisdom (to guide him through a decision or circumstance), he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him.

Proverbs 18:15 ESV

An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

Proverbs 24:3-5 ESV

By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might.

Ecclesiastes 7:12 ESV

For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.

Proverbs 2:10-11 NKJV

When wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion will preserve you; understanding will keep you.

Proverbs 3:13 NKJV

Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding.

Proverbs 4:7 NKJV

Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.

Group Share: Re-read the above verses. Discuss our role related to obtaining wisdom, knowledge and discernment. Describe some of the benefits. God is so good, “for the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” Proverbs 2:6 CSB. General wisdom, knowledge, and discernment are extremely valuable. They help us build and navigate our lives, walk through various circumstances and can literally sustain us. As if this wasn’t enough, there’s even more – the revelation gifts! EMPOWER BOOKLET

What are the revelation gifts?

1 Corinthians 12:8-10 NKJV

The revelation gifts include a word of wisdom, a word of knowledge and discerning of spirits. These are in operation when God reveals certain facts or insights that a person would not know except through divine revelation. These revelation gifts allow a person to KNOW something. First Corinthians 12 is not talking about natural wisdom, natural knowledge or discernment in the general sense. God differentiates general wisdom and general knowledge from the spiritual gifts by referring to them as a word of wisdom and a word of knowledge. These gifts are given supernaturally! They are not general wisdom or general knowledge to help in the affairs of life. They are a word of supernatural revelation by the Spirit of God concerning certain facts about people, places or things. Notice also that the verse says it is a gift of discerning of spirits (not simply general discernment or insight), but rather discerning of spirits. This includes divine, demonic and human spirits. Let’s examine the first revelation gift – a word of wisdom.

Wait, aren’t we all supposed to pursue wisdom? Yes! Seek wisdom. God’s Word is filled with encouragement to grow in wisdom. As noted above, this type of wisdom is considered general wisdom. For example, general wisdom says to make a plan before building a house. General wisdom says take care of your physical body with the right nutrition, sleep, and exercise so you can accomplish what God has put in your heart to do. General wisdom says seek the input and counsel of others so that you can make the very best decisions possible. Wisdom starts by studying and meditating on the Word of God.

Joshua 1:8 AMPC

The Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.

All believers can develop general wisdom. Developing and exercising this type of wisdom for daily life comes through the continued study and application of God’s word. It also comes by being in community with wise people and seeking their counsel.

Proverbs 11:14 AMP

Where there is no (wise, intelligent) guidance, the people fall (and go off course like a ship without a helm), but in the abundance of (wise and godly) counselors there is victory.

Proverbs 12:15 AMP

The way of the (arrogant) fool (who rejects God’s wisdom) is right in his own eyes, but a wise and prudent man is he who listens to counsel.

Write It: How are you actively pursuing general wisdom in your life? Who are your wise counselors?

General wisdom is not the same as a word wisdom, so what is a word of wisdom?

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A word of wisdom A word of wisdom gives us revelation of the plans and purposes in the mind of God. It is a specific word of God’s wisdom, not general wisdom. It deals with things of the future, not the present or the past. It is not ordinary guidance from God. Let’s look at some examples from the Bible of individuals receiving a word of wisdom from Holy Spirit. Noah – The Flood (Genesis 6:17-22) God spoke to Noah about the profound wickedness on the earth. He told Noah he was going to send a flood to wash the earth and start over. “And behold, I Myself am bringing floodwaters to the earth…” Genesis 6:17 NKJV. Then God proceeded to give Noah a very specific plan and design for how to save his family and animals so the earth could be populated once again. Noah was given a word of wisdom about the plans and purposes in God’s mind for the future. He was also told the solution (build an ark) for a particular challenge (The Flood). Joseph – His Future (Genesis 37: 5-11) God spoke to Joseph through dreams on many occasions. The first incident revealed in Scripture is the dream Joseph shared with his brothers. This word of wisdom showed God’s future plans for Joseph to rule over his family. The next significant example is in the interpretation of Pharaoh’s dream. God communicated a word of wisdom through the interpretation of the dream. “Then Joseph said to Pharaoh, ‘The dreams of Pharaoh are one; God has shown Pharaoh what He is about to do.’” Genesis 41:25 NKJV. The word of wisdom was that a seven-year famine would occur after seven years of abundance. Joseph then gave counsel regarding how to prepare in light of God’s revealed plan. Ananias – The Call on Paul’s Life (Acts 9:15) Following Paul’s Damascus Road experience, God directed Ananias to the house where Paul was staying. There, Ananias ministered to Paul, and many gifts of the Holy Spirit were in operation. Ananias received a word of wisdom regarding God’s future plans for Paul. “But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is a chosen vessel of mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.’” Acts 9:15 NKJV. Jesus – Peter’s Denial (Luke 22:31-34) Jesus knew that Peter would deny him before it happened. Peter boldly proclaimed that he was ready to go with Jesus to prison or death! Jesus responded with a word of wisdom: “Peter, let me tell you something. Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” Luke 22:34 NLT Other Biblical examples of a word of wisdom: • Agabus – the Holy Spirit reveals Paul’s fate (Acts 21:10-11) • Joel – the declaration of the Day of Pentecost (Joel 2:28-29) • Paul – perceiving that there would be a ship wreck and then later that all would survive (Acts 27:10; 23-24

When God sees fit to reveal His own mind, purpose and plan for the future in a supernatural way, He does so by a word of wisdom. This supernatural gift always speaks of the future. Said another way, through the gift of a word of wisdom, God makes believers wise to the future by telling them what is going to take place. This can occur through dreams, visions, a strong inner knowing or inner revelation, in cooperation with the gift of prophecy (see lesson six), and many other ways. God reveals a word of wisdom in the manner that He considers best for the person and the situation. Remember, this is not the gift of wisdom, it is the gift of a word of wisdom. This gift reveals, in part, the purposes and plans of God. It reveals a fraction of what God knows about what will come. Paul refers to this as wisdom that was once hidden, but now revealed:

1 Corinthians 2:7 AMP

But we speak God’s wisdom in a mystery, the wisdom once hidden [from man, but now revealed to us by God, that wisdom] which God predestined before the ages to our glory [to lift us into the glory of His presence].

God is so wonderful! He reveals His purposes and the mysteries of what will come – facts or insights about the future that a person would not know except through divine revelation. He does so through a word of wisdom. Write It: Describe the distinct characteristics of a word of wisdom. How is a word of wisdom different than natural or general wisdom?

The second revelation gift is a word of knowledge.

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Aren’t we all to gain knowledge? Yes! All believers can grow in knowledge similarly to how we can grow in general wisdom. General knowledge is simply an accumulation of facts about a given subject. Sources for general knowledge are literally everywhere. You probably have a miniature computer (your cell phone) at your fingers right now. With it you can find facts about various subjects, and as you learn these facts, you grow your general knowledge. As we see in Proverbs it is good to pursue and gain general knowledge

Proverbs 18:15 CSB

The mind of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it.

Psalm 119:66 NIV

Teach me knowledge and good judgment for I trust your commands.

Proverbs 20:15 CSB

There is gold and a multitude of jewels, but knowledgeable lips are a rare treasure.

Write It: How are you actively pursuing knowledge in your life?

The gift of a word of knowledge is not a profound knowledge of the Bible. People grow in their knowledge of the Bible by reading and studying it, not through the gift of a word of knowledge. Of course, God helps us understand His word. He does this though the work of Holy Spirit, but that is not a supernatural gift. Paul encourages us to study the Word and to rightly handle the Word as we teach it to others:

2 Timothy 2:15

Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.

The gift of a word of knowledge is not the knowledge we can all obtain though close communion with God. Yes, we gain a knowledge of God as we spend time in fellowship with Him in prayer and worship. We gain knowledge by walking with Him in our daily lives, just as we grow in knowledge as we walk (or do life) with our family and close friends. As we walk with God, our knowledge of Him and His ways increases. But this is not the supernatural gift of a word of knowledge.

So, what is a word of knowledge? Similar to a word of wisdom, a word of knowledge reveals certain facts or insights that a person would not know except through divine revelation. However, a word of knowledge gives us revelation of facts from the past or the present. By contrast, a word of wisdom focuses on the future. Let’s look at some examples from the Bible of individuals receiving from Holy Spirit a word of knowledge. Samuel – Lost Donkeys (1 Samuel 9:20) When the nation of Israel asked for a king, God sent the prophet Samuel to anoint the new king. Saul, son of Kish, was sent to look for lost donkeys. He went to inquire about the donkeys from the prophet who received a word of knowledge about the donkeys’ whereabouts. “But as for your donkeys that were lost three days ago, do not be anxious about them, for they have been found…” 1 Samuel 9:20 NKJV. This word of knowledge set Saul up to receive the mantle and anointing of king over Israel. Elisha – A Lying Servant (2 Kings 5:25-26) After Naaman, commander of the army of Aram, was healed of leprosy, he tried to reward the prophet Elisha, but he refused to accept the reward. Naaman goes on his way and Elisha’s servant Gehazi goes after him and tells him some guests have arrived that are in need of provisions. The servant lied to Naaman and then proceeded to lie to Elisha about where he had been. Elisha received a word of knowledge from God regarding his servant’s actions (the knowledge that he was lying and that he had asked for money and clothing). Jesus – The Woman at the Well (John 4:16-18) Jesus engaged in conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well. He spoke to her about the Messiah and when she asked more questions, he asked her to go and get her husband. The woman responded she had no husband and by a word of knowledge Jesus told her she was correct: “You have well said, ‘I have no husband,’ for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; in that you spoke truly.’” John 4:17-18 NKJV. This revelation of a word of knowledge sparked a revival in Samaria. People believed first the word of the woman from the well and then they heard Jesus and believed for themselves. Other Biblical examples of a word of knowledge • Elisha – He learned about the plans against Israel (2 Kings 6:11-12) • Elijah – He learned that he was not the only surviving believer; there were 7,000 in Israel (1 Kings 19:18) • Peter – He knew people from Cornelius had arrived to see him (Acts 10:19) Write It: Describe the distinct characteristics of a word of knowledge. How is a word of knowledge different than natural or general knowledge?

The final revelation gift is discerning of spirits.

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Isn’t everyone able to discern things? Yes. Discernment is a necessary skill for life. Discernment is the quality of being able to grasp and comprehend what is not clearly seen or easily distinguished. It’s an important skill in business, parenting, or any interpersonal relationship. When a person discerns something, he/she recognizes, perceives or sees it clearly, especially when things may look “right” but actually are not. “Discernment is not simply a matter of telling the difference between what is right and wrong; rather it is the difference between right and almost right,” Charles Spurgeon. As a young boy, king Solomon knew that he needed God’s help! He asked God for a hearing heart (one that could discern between good and evil).

1 Kings 3:9 AMP

So give Your servant an understanding mind and a hearing heart (with which) to judge Your people, so that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge and rule this great people of Yours?

Like general wisdom and general knowledge, discernment can be learned through experience, study, and proximity to people. Discernment is not the same as discerning of spirits. There is no gift of discernment! It is discerning of spirits.

Discerning of spirits The gift of discerning of spirits gives us supernatural insight into the spiritual realm (insights that cannot be perceived by our natural senses). Through this gift, people can discern (recognize, perceive, see clearly or hear) spirits that exist in the spirit realm. It allows a person to detect the realm of the spirits and their activities and whether they are from God, Satan, or human spirits. You could say that this gift helps you distinguish between good vs. evil spirits. In fact, some translations of 1 Corinthians 12:10 say “distinguishing” between spirits. On one of the occasions that Jesus told his disciples that he would be crucified, Peter told Jesus that this would never happen. Jesus immediately rebuked the spirit that was behind Peter’s words when He said, “Get behind me Satan.” (Matthew 16:22-23). Jesus discerned that the spirit trying to influence him was Satan. As believers, we are all to “test the spirits”. This is a responsibility for all Christians, not just those operating in the gift of discerning of spirits.

1 John 4:1-3 CSB

Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see if they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the antichrist, which you have heard is coming; even now it is already in the world.

The Passion Translation of 1 John 4:1 says, “don’t trust every spirit, but carefully examine what they say to determine if they are of God.” The Word of God is clear, as believers, we have a responsibility to examine (or test) the spirits. Godly spirits will confess that Jesus has come in the flesh and what they say will be in alignment with Scripture. Paul provides similar counsel in one of his letters:

1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 AMP

Do not scorn or reject gifts of prophecy or prophecies [spoken revelations—words of instruction or exhortation or warning]. But test all things carefully [so you can recognize what is good]. Hold firmly to that which is good.

As Christians, we are commanded to test the message that people or spirits proclaim, especially when they claim to be speaking for God. We must be discerning hearers and readers of all messages to see if what is proclaimed is truly from God or if it is a lie from Satan and his servants or is originating from a human spirit. Those operating in the gift of discerning of spirits will have a supernatural revelation from God of the presence or activities of the spirit world. They can clearly discern if what is being said or manifested is Godly, demonic or human. “The discerning of spirits is a gift of the Holy Spirit by which the possessor is enabled to see into the spirit world. By this insight he can discern the similitude of God, the risen Christ, the Holy Spirit, cherubim and seraphim, the archangels and the host of angels, Satan and his legions,” Howard Carter. Note: similitude means likeness, resemblance, qualities of appearance. Let’s look to the Scripture for examples of this gift in action:

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Jesus Calling Nathaniel – John 1:43-47 Phillip told Nathaniel that they had found the Messiah and invited him to come and see. Jesus discerned the type of human spirit within Nathaniel by when He said: “Here comes a true son of Israel—an honest man with no hidden motive!” 1 John 1:47 TPT. He operated in the discerning of spirits when He called out the good in Nathaniel’s human spirit. Peter in Samaria – Acts 8:14-25 Peter and John traveled to Samaria to see the work of God that had been taking place. A local man, Simon, came to faith in Jesus. When he saw people receiving the power of the Holy Spirit when Peter and John laid hands on them, he wanted to purchase this ability. Peter discerned that Simon’s spirit was filled with bitterness and wickedness. “You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God. Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive your evil thoughts, for I can see that you are full of bitter jealousy and are held captive by sin.” Acts 8:21-23 NLT It is important to point out, Peter also told Simon what he needed to do, which was to repent. Jesus Healing a Woman Crippled by a demonic spirit – Luke 13:10-17 Jesus healed a woman that had been bent over and disabled for 18 years by an evil spirit. It was through discerning of spirits that Jesus recognized what was going on behind the ailment and brought relief and restoration to the woman. “This dear woman, a daughter of Abraham, has been held in bondage by Satan for eighteen years. Isn’t it right that she be released, even on the Sabbath?” Luke 13:16 NLT. He lovingly referred to her as a daughter of Abraham and recognized that a Satanic spirit was holding her in bondage. Other biblical examples of discerning of spirits: • Paul casting a demon out of a woman (even though it looked like she was saying the right things) – Acts 16:16-18 • Jesus rebuking James and John – John 9:53-55 • Peter knowing that Ananias and Sapphira were lying – Acts chapter 5 The amazing outcome of discerning of spirits in operation is that people are set free and Jesus is given glory. Demonic forces try to influence the thoughts, behaviors and attitudes of people. When in operation in a healthy way, this gift brings great comfort and security to the church as it guards against false doctrines, lies and all kinds of unhealthy manifestations that may appear to be from God. Here are some additional reminders about the gift of discerning of spirits: • It’s not just focused on the demonic. To say that this gift only focuses on the demonic or the devil is misleading. This gift has to do with the entire range of spirits: Godly, demonic and human.

John 4:24 NKJV

God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.

• Sometimes we blame the devil when it’s simply the flesh at work. Be careful not to “over spiritualize” everything. It may not be “the devil at work” but simply a person being carnal or operating in the flesh. 53

Galatians 5:19-21

“Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like…”

• Discerning of spirits is not spiritual mindreading or the ability to commune with the dead. This gift does not provide some new psychological insight or allow you to enter the mind or thoughts of another human being, whether alive or dead. Scripture tells us to avoid this because it is not from God!

Deuteronomy 18:10-12

There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out.

• There is no gift of discernment to find the faults of others. That’s simply someone being critical and judgmental of others. You don’t need a supernatural gift to discern faults in others! Even non believers have this ability. The gift of discerning of spirits is not faultfinding or a special ability to uncover human failures. We are instructed to restore those who are in sin (a fault) through love and gentleness.

Galatians 6:1 TPT

My beloved friends, if you see a believer who is overtaken with a fault, the one who is in the Spirit should seek to restore him in the Spirit of gentleness. But keep watch over your own heart so that you won’t be tempted to exalt yourself over him.

• Being influenced by a wrong or demonic spirit is not the same as being possessed. All of us have been harassed or influenced by a spirit that is not from God. It’s simply part of our human experience. The spirit of fear is one example.

2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

• All believers are to follow the inner witness of the Holy Spirit. Even without the gift of discerning of spirits, Christians have the ability (and responsibility) to follow the inner witness of Holy Spirit. He is our advocate, and His role is to comfort us, guide us, teach us, and remind us of what we’ve already been taught (John 14:26). As children of God, we are to follow the Spirit of God.

Romans 8:14 AMP

“For all who are allowing themselves to be led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”

Write It: Describe the distinct characteristics of discerning of spirits. How is discerning of spirits different than natural or general discernment?

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Live fully surrendered and obedient As spirit-filled Christians, we have the opportunity to live fully surrendered and obedient lives empowered by Holy Spirit – just like Jesus did! This includes operating in the revelation gifts. Jesus is God, but remember that while on earth, He assumed the form of a man (Philippians 2:7) and operated through the power of the Holy Spirit as a model for us. He was fully surrendered and obedient to the leading of Holy Spirit, and this included operating in the revelation gifts – a word of wisdom, a word of knowledge and discerning of spirits. There are things God wants to reveal to his people as we minister to others. Follow Jesus’ example – be fully surrendered and obedient as you hear what God reveals.

John 12:49 KNJV

For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak.

John 14:10

Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works.

DO IT: Are you fully surrendered to Holy Spirit? Are you obedient to his leading? If yes, how do you stay in a place of surrender and obedience? If no, what is keeping you from fully surrendering to him? Confess what might be holding you back. Then pray and note what God reveals.

WHEN HEALING GIFTS ARE EXERCISED, THE FAITH OF BOTH THE ONE HEALED AND THE ONE HEALING IS BUILT UP AND BECOMES STRONGER. FAITH NOT ONLY IN GOD, BUT FAITH IN ONE’S ABILITY TO DO THE WORKS JESUS DID, AS HE SAID WE WOULD. Praying Medic

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LESSON 5

Power Gifts

A quick internet search reveals that 10 of the top 25 grossing movies of all time feature super heroes. This includes four Avengers movies, Black Panther, Aquaman, Spiderman, Captain America, Iron Man and even Incredibles 2! Many of these heroes are ordinary people that somehow perform incredible feats and demonstrate miraculous power so that good can overcome evil. Others are simply “made that way” and born with gifts and abilities that are used to push back the enemy and bring about justice. Of course, all of these movies are fictional. The stories are make-believe. Yet despite this truth, people have spent billions of dollars to watch them! Comic books, videogames, T-shirts and other items featuring these super heroes are also very popular. Our hearts crave the supernatural. There’s something about us that desires to see power at work. To begin this lesson, let’s look at the true source of all power.

Exodus 15:6 NLT

Your right hand, O Lord, is glorious in power. Your right hand, O Lord, smashes the enemy.

1 Chronicles 29:11 NKJV

Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, The power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, And You are exalted as head over all.

Psalm 147:4-5 NKJV

He counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by name. Great is our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding is infinite.

Jeremiah 10:12 NLT

But the Lord made the earth by his power, and he preserves it by his wisdom. With his own understanding he stretched out the heavens.

God is the source of power. He is mighty. His power is unlimited and active. He deserves all of the glory and honor. How humbling it is to consider that He invites us to partner with Him in order to demonstrate His power. This requires that we fully rely on His power, not our own. Psalm 62:11 TPT

God said to me once and for all, “All the strength and power you need flows from me!”

Acts 1:8 NKJV

But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.

Matthew 22:29 NLT

Jesus replied, “Your mistake is that you don’t know the Scriptures, and you don’t know the power of God.”

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John 15:5 NKJV

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”

Ephesians 1:19

And so that you will begin to know what the immeasurable and unlimited and surpassing greatness of His active, spiritual power is in us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of His mighty strength.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Group Share: Discuss the attributes of God’s power. How is His power described? Why is it important for us to connect to His power?

As we learned in lesson three, spiritual gifts are the God-given, divinely empowered capacity to minister life and serve by communicating or demonstrating the knowledge, power and love of Jesus. This lesson focuses on the three power gifts.

What are the power gifts?

1 Corinthians 12:8-10

The power gifts include the gift of faith, gifts of healings and the working of miracles. Through the power gifts, God imparts His own divine powers and abilities to man. The power gifts involve supernatural ability that man does not naturally possess. These three gifts DO something. The power gifts are very closely associated with one another and often work together. This is similar to how tongues and the interpretation of tongues work together or how prophecy often works with the gift of a word of wisdom. Let’s look at the first power gift – the gift of faith.

The Gift of Faith Faith, like other Biblical terms such as prayer and baptisms, is often misunderstood. This is the case because we tend to “mix together” different kinds of faith. We must differentiate between natural faith, general (or saving) faith, and the gift of faith. Natural faith. Everyone has natural faith. Natural faith is exercising simple belief in someone or something. For example, natural faith expects a car to go faster when you push down on the gas pedal. Natural faith expects a plane to take off and stay in the air despite the fact that gravity is real. You could also say that we have faith that the pilot is prepared and ready to ensure a safe flight. We all need natural faith to operate in the world. Natural faith believes that there is night and day. Natural faith knows that it will be cold in the winter and warm in the summer. Natural faith knows that you need to plow and plant in order to reap a harvest. Natural faith believes something to be true with strong conviction.

Genesis 8:22 NLT

As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.

Proverbs 20:4 NLT

Those too lazy to plow in the right season will have no food at the harvest.

General (or saving) faith. General (or saving) faith begins when a person hears the gospel, believes it and asks Jesus to be his or her Lord and Savior. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8 NKJV. The faith that we are saved by is a gift, but it is not the gift of faith mentioned in 1 Corinthians 9. Over time, we can increase the “measure of faith” we initially received from God. This occurs when we choose to continually hear, read and meditate on the Word of God, believe it, and then exercise our faith in prayer and action by doing what the Word instructs us to do. Let’s be like Abraham, the father of faith, who was fully persuaded that God was able to do what He promised.

Romans 10:17 NKJV

So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Romans 12:3 NKJV

For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.

Mark 11:23-24 TPT

Listen to the truth I speak to you: Whoever says to this mountain with great faith and does not doubt, ‘Mountain, be lifted up and thrown into the midst of the sea,’ and believes that what he says will happen, it will be done. This is the reason I urge you to boldly believe for whatever you ask for in prayer—be convinced that you have received it and it will be yours.

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James 1:22 AMP

But prove yourselves doers of the word [actively and continually obeying God’s precepts], and not merely listeners [who hear the word but fail to internalize its meaning], deluding yourselves [by unsound reasoning contrary to the truth].

Romans 4:20-21 AMP

But he (Abraham) did not doubt or waver in unbelief concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and empowered by faith, giving glory to God, being fully convinced that God had the power to do what He had promised.

As Christians, we are to live our lives based on faith in God. Without it, we can’t please Him.

Hebrews 10:38 NKJV

Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him.

Hebrews 11:6 NKJV

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

It’s also important to note that all the gifts of the spirit operate by this kind of faith (general or saving faith). It takes general faith to “step out” and give a prophetic word or to share a word of knowledge. Said another way, a person must yield – by faith – to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. The gifts of the Spirit do not operate by the gift of faith. They operate by general faith. WHAT IS HOLY SPIRIT SAYING TO ME? Review the content about general or saving faith. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you how you can increase your faith. Note what He tells you below.

All Christians have general (or saving) faith, but not every Christian has the gift of faith.

So, what is the gift of faith? The gift of faith goes above and beyond natural or general faith. It’s a supernatural demonstration of an ability to believe. When the gift of faith comes to a person, he or she becomes a giant of faith and all doubt and fear is removed. The gift of faith is a supernatural, unwavering trust in God which enables someone to receive a miracle; this is different than the gift of the working of miracles. It is special faith. No human effort is involved. The Amplified version of 1 Corinthians 9 calls it “wonder-working” faith. It is given supernaturally by God, as He wills. “We observe the gift of faith in operation when God, through the power of the Holy Spirit, performs supernatural exploits that cannot be humanly explained. These exploits cannot be what is done ordinarily; otherwise, they would have no relation to the supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit.” Lester Sumrall. The gift of faith is oftentimes given for protection from danger or provision for a specific need. It includes a surge of confidence which gives extraordinary certainty and assurance that God will act. Let’s look at some examples from the Bible of individuals operating in the gift of faith. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego – In the Fiery Furnace (Daniel 3:8-26) In Daniel chapter three we read about a decree that was in place requiring everyone to bow down to a gold image made to look like and represent King Nebuchadnezzar. Three young Hebrew men – Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego – refused to bow down and worship the image. When Nebuchadnezzar heard about this, he was furious and gave the command that the three boys be brought to him. The king confronted them about their lack of compliance to the decree. He told them that if they did not comply then they would be thrown into a fiery furnace. In faith, the boys did not relent. “If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.” Daniel 3:17-18. The king then went into full rage, and commanded that they be placed in a fiery furnace that had been heated seven times hotter than usual. The young men were then bound and then cast into the fiery furnace. However, when the king looked into the furnace, he was astonished. He said, “I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.” Daniel 3:25. This was the gift of faith in operation. The young men had no ability to stop the fire or escape. But through the gift of faith, they walked out of the furnace. “… the hair of their head was not singed nor were their garments affected, and the smell of fire was not on them.” Daniel 3:27. Daniel – In the Lion’s Den (Daniel 6:10-28) Daniel was faithful to God despite the risk of personal injury or death. In the book of Daniel, we learn that the governors and other high-ranking officials sought to find some fault in Daniel so that he could be condemned. Finding none, they conspired to trap him with the passing of a new law forbidding prayer to anyone divine or human (except to the king). Whoever broke this law was to be thrown into the den of lions (Daniel 6:7-9). Despite the risk, Daniel “went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room,

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with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God.” Daniel 6:10. The king had no choice but to have Daniel arrested and thrown into the den of lions. God gave Daniel special faith, a manifestation of the Spirit, to have faith for his deliverance. Why didn’t the lions devour Daniel? The Bible says “…Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no injury whatever was found on him, because he believed in his God.” Daniel 6:23b Elijah – Fed by Ravens and Then by a Widow (1 Kings 17:1-16) God told Elijah to go to the brook Cherith where He would sustain him. He was to drink water from the brook, and to eat the food brought by the ravens. Elijah had the gift of faith to receive this miracle provision from God. “So he went and did according to the word of the Lord, for he went and stayed by the Brook Cherith, which flows into the Jordan. The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening; and he drank from the brook.” 1 Kings 17:5-6. The brook then dried up, but Elijah’s supernatural faith was still in operation. He didn’t turn back in doubt and fear. He listened to the voice of God and went to Zarephath. There he met a widow. He asked her for a cup of water and some bread. She explained that all she had was a little bit of flour and oil. “Elijah said to her, ‘Do not fear; go and do as you have said, but make me a small cake from it first, and bring it to me; and afterward make some for yourself and your son.’” 1 Kings 17:13. Elijah operated in special faith when he declared: “For thus says the Lord God of Israel: ‘The bin of flour shall not be used up, nor shall the jar of oil run dry, until the day the Lord sends rain on the earth.’” 1 Kings 17:14. Jesus – Sleeping During a Storm (Luke 8:22-24) “Now it happened, on a certain day, that He got into a boat with His disciples. And He said to them, ‘Let us cross over to the other side of the lake.’ And they launched out. But as they sailed He fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water, and were in jeopardy. And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, ‘Master, Master, we are perishing!’” Being able to sleep during a storm in a boat that was filling with water exemplifies the gift of faith. Remember, Jesus was with professional fishermen! They spent much of their lives at sea, and had most certainly experienced many storms. This one was bad enough to frighten them. Jesus’ special faith allowed Him to sleep in the middle of a terrible storm. Write It: Describe the distinct characteristics of the gift of faith. How is the gift of faith different than natural or general faith?

The second power gift is gifts of healings.

How does God heal? Before we explore gifts of healings, let’s first look at the general concept of healing. Healing is recovery from sickness or disease. God has provided numerous ways for people to receive healing: • Believing God’s Word for Yourself. Isaiah 53:5 NKJV

But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.

Mark 5:34 NKJV

And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction.”

Luke 17:19

And He said to him, “Arise, go your way. Your faith has made you well.”

• Laying on of Hands.

Mark 16:17-18 NKJV

And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.

Acts 28:8 NKJV

And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him.

• The Prayer of Faith.

James 5:15-16 NKJV

And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

Mark 11:24 NKJV

Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

• Anointing with Oil.

James 5:14 KNJV

Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.

Mark 6:13 NKJV

And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.

People can receive healing by believing God’s Word for themselves, having hands laid on them, praying the prayer of faith, and being anointed with oil. God also heals through the gifts of healings.

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What are gifts of healings? Gifts of healings are supernatural healings of sicknesses or diseases. Gifts of healings involve no natural source or means. They have nothing to do with medical science, human learning or efforts. You’ll notice that this gift is plural. It is gifts of healings not the gift of healing. This gift is mentioned three times (1 Corinthians 12:9, 28, 30). In each instance, Paul explicitly employs the plural of both nouns – gifts (plural) of healings (plural). Some Bible scholars suggest that this is because there are different kinds of injuries, sicknesses and diseases, so one gift of healing would not suffice. They suggest that it is reasonable to believe that God might anoint one person with faith for certain diseases, another with faith for others. In fact, some who operate in this gift seem to “specialize” in certain ailments and not others – with some uniquely anointed to heal heart disease or diabetes while others are uniquely anointed to heal cancer or blindness. “Evidently Paul does not envision an individual being endowed with one healing gift operative at all times for all diseases. His language suggests either many different gifts or powers of healing, each appropriate to and effective for its related illness, or each occurrence of healing constituting a distinct gift in its own right.” Sam Storms. For example, in Acts 8:5-8 we learn that through the ministry of Philip, many who were demonpossessed, paralyzed or lame were healed. Nonetheless, keep in mind that God is not limited. His healing power is available to all. But at times those who minister gifts of healings may see greater results with particular kinds of sicknesses or diseases. However, in the ministry of Jesus, every manner of sickness and disease was healed. Matthew 9:35

“Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness.”

Let’s look to the Scripture for examples of this gift in action: Moses – Serpent of Brass Used to Heal (Numbers 21:6-9) Here we learn that the people of Israel were dying after being bit by fiery serpents. The people came to Moses for help and asked him to pray and ask God to take away the serpents. Moses prayed to God, “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Make a fiery serpent, and set it on a pole; and it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live.’ So Moses made a bronze serpent, and put it on a pole; and so it was, if a serpent had bitten anyone, when he looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.” Numbers 21:8-9 Elisha – Naaman is Healed when he Washed in the Jordan Seven Times (2 Kings 5:8-14) Naaman had leprosy and went to see Elisha the prophet. He became upset because Elisha sent a messenger (he wanted to see the prophet, not one of his helpers) and because he did not like the counsel about what to do (“go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored to you, and you shall be clean.” 2 Kings 5:10). Despite Naaman’s stubbornness, pride and lack of faith, he was healed because Elisha operated in the gifts of healings. His servants convinced him to do what he was told. “So he went down and dipped seven times in the Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God; and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” 2 Kings 5:14.

Peter – Peter Heals a Lame Man (Acts 3:1-8) Peter and John were about to enter the temple when a man who had been lame his entire life got Peter’s attention. The man was expecting some type of practical support when Peter declared, “‘Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.’ And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.” Acts 3:6-7 The man was not expecting healing. Yet through the gifts of healings, he “entered the temple with them—walking, leaping, and praising God.” Acts 3:8 Peter – Ministering to the Saints in Lydda; Aeneas is Healed (Acts 9:33-34) When Peter was ministering to the saints at Lydda, “he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years and was paralyzed.” Acts 9:33. But when Peter walked into his room, he ministered the gifts of healings. “And Peter said to him, ‘Aeneas, Jesus the Christ heals you. Arise and make your bed.’ Then he arose immediately.” Acts 9:34 Write It: What are various ways we can be healed? Describe the distinct characteristics of the gifts of healings.

The final power gift is the working of miracles.

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The working of miracles All believers are to expect God to work supernaturally through them: Mark 16:17-18 NKJV “And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

These types of supernatural occurrences (and others) are to be a normal part of our Christian walk. This is part of our life of faith – casting out demons, speaking in new tongues and laying hands on the sick. God goes beyond this when he chooses to have his followers participate further in the supernatural through the gift of the working of miracles. A miracle is something that happens contrary to the known laws of science or nature. As we explore this gift, keep in mind that it is a miracle only from man’s perspective. What we consider to be a miracle is God being God. It’s simply an act of God! The gift of the working of miracles is the supernatural intervention by God in which the laws of nature are suspended, altered, or controlled. God uses the believer in whom this gift operates to “work” the miracle. A human (as an instrument) is always involved. When the working of miracles is in manifestation, there is a divine intervention of God in the ordinary course of nature. Let’s look at some examples from the Bible. Moses – Parting the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22) There was a divine intervention in the course of nature (the working of a miracle) when Moses stretched out his hand over the sea. “Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea into dry land, and the waters were divided. So the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea on the dry ground, and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.” Exodus 14:21-22 Joshua – Commanding the sun and the moon to stand still (Joshua 10:12-13) There was a divine intervention in the course of nature (the working of a miracle) when Joshua commanded the sun and the moon to stand still. “Then Joshua spoke to the Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel: ‘Sun, stand still over Gibeon; And Moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.’ So the sun stood still, And the moon stopped, Till the people had revenge Upon their enemies. Is this not written in the Book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and did not hasten to go down for about a whole day.” Joshua 10:12-13 Samuel – Calling forth thunder and rain (1 Samuel 12:16-18) There was a divine intervention in the course of nature (the working of a miracle) when Samuel called forth thunder and rain. “‘Now therefore, stand and see this great thing which the Lord will do before your eyes: Is today not the wheat harvest? I will call to the Lord, and He will send thunder and rain, that you may perceive and see that your wickedness is great, which you have done in the sight of the Lord, in asking a king for yourselves.’ So Samuel called to the Lord, and the Lord sent thunder and rain that day; and all the people greatly feared the Lord and Samuel.” 1 Samuel 12:16-18

Jesus – Feeding the Five Thousand (Mathew 14:13-21) There was a divine intervention in the course of nature (the working of a miracle) when Jesus fed the five thousand with five loaves of bread and 2 small fish. Many people followed Jesus as He ministered in various towns. On one occasion He asked His disciples how they were going to feed the great multitude. One of His disciples pointed out that the only food they had was from a young boy – five barley loaves and two small fish. This was certainly not enough to feed all the people. Jesus operated in the working of miracles when “…He commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass. And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitudes. So they all ate and were filled, and they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments that remained.” Matthew 14:19-20.

Seek the best gifts Sometimes people debate over which of the spiritual gifts is the “best” gift. Many choose the power gifts because they are so spectacular and supernatural. While this is true, let’s agree that all of the gifts are spectacular and supernatural. All of them demonstrate God’s power and love. So, desire the “best” gifts – the gifts that are needed for a specific situation at a specific time! If the need is healing, desire gifts of healings. When the need is to understand God’s plan for the future, desire a word of wisdom. Desire the best gifts! 1 Corinthians 12:31 NKJV But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.

DO IT: Pray and ask God for the best gifts. Share with God your earnest desire to operate in the gifts. If you are with others, pray for each other to receive the best gifts.

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PROPHECY IS FOR THE CHURCH: THE EDIFICATION, EXHORTATION, AND COMFORT OF PROPHECY BELONG TO GOD’S PEOPLE Lester Sumrall

LESSON 6

Holy Spirit Utterance/Inspiration Gifts Imagine attending a church service and hearing an encouraging word before you even enter the building. The person who greets you – someone you don’t even know – says something that lifts your spirits, and makes you feel not only welcomed, but valued. You smile, say thank you and then greet a friend in the lobby. This friend is compelled to pray for you right then and there and then exhorts you to keep trusting God. He prays verses that are “spot on” to your current situation. You feel less burdened. Strength rises up inside of you and you haven’t even made it into the sanctuary! As you stop to get a cup of coffee, the youth pastor rushes to your side and gives you a hug. He explains that he’s been praying for you all week. He then shares what’s on his heart. Again, you sense strength and comfort as his words edify your soul. You then enter the sanctuary where an usher smiles and makes you feel like the guest of honor. There’s been no music. No announcements. No preaching. Yet you’ve already been blessed and encouraged. You are so glad to be in church. You’re in God’s house. What kind of church is this? It’s a church that has embraced and is operating in one of the utterance gifts – the simple gift of prophecy.

1 Corinthians 14:3 NKJV

“But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.”

This lesson will explore the three utterance or inspiration gifts. They are the gifts that say something. These gifts include the gift of prophecy, different kinds of tongues, and the interpretation of tongues.

“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.”

1 Corinthians 12:7-10

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Desire the Gifts – Especially to Prophecy Who wouldn’t what to attend a church like the one described above? Perhaps that’s why Paul instructed us to pursue the gifts, especially the gift of prophecy. As we learned in lesson 3, each of the nine gifts are available to us and we are to earnestly desire them. 1 Corinthians 14:1 NKJV

“Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.”

1 Corinthians 14:39 TPT

“So, beloved friends, with all this in mind, be passionate to prophesy and don’t forbid anyone from speaking in tongues.”

The Greek word translated “be passionate” is zēloō. It means a boiling fervor. Paul says that we are to have a boiling fervor to prophesy. Said another way, Paul wants us to have a boiling fervor to: • Edify (to build up, strengthen, to make more effective, to construct and confirm, establish) • Exhort (to stimulate, encourage, admonish; to come alongside; to draw near to God) • Comfort (to cheer up, to speak consoling words, provide relief, to free from worry) God’s word is clear, prophetic utterances will edify, exhort, and comfort. “The end purpose of all true prophetic revelation is to build up, to admonish, and to encourage the people of God. Anything that is not directed to this end is not true prophecy.” James W. Goll. All Christians need their spiritual lives to be built up and strengthened. This is one of the reasons why the utterance or inspiration gifts were given to the church. Paul wants us to be passionate about operating in the simple gift of prophecy so that we can draw others nearer to God as we build them up and comfort them. Unfortunately, there is often great confusion, error or even abuse when people operate in the gift of prophecy. It is often misunderstood because the term “prophecy” has various general and specific uses: we refer to prophets in the Old and New Testament, read the hundreds of prophecies in the Bible, experience someone delivering a prophetic word, and even debate about modern-day prophets. GROUP SHARE: Is what is written above about prophecy different than what you have always thought? If so, share what’s new to you.

The Gift of Prophecy vs. the Office of the Prophet The simple gift of prophecy should not be confused with the prophetic office or with prophetic utterances that come forth from a prophet. The simple gift of prophecy does not contain foretelling of future events. As noted above, it is to edify, exhort and comfort the church. This is often referred to as forth telling (speaking forth, or out, God’s Word to those whom God desires to hear it). The simple gift of prophecy is supernatural utterance in a known language that speaks the treasures of God to the body of Christ. It is inspired by God and doesn’t come from our mind. Holy Spirit simply prompts the words as we speak them forth. It is not a sign of superior intellect or knowledge of the Bible. Although prophecy comes through the mouth or pen of people, it comes from the mind of God. When delivered, prophetic words do not need to be delivered in a specific style (such as to sound like the King James Bible) and do not include foretelling the future (unless Holy Spirit chooses to use it to speak a word of wisdom). We will look more closely at operating in more than one gift later in this lesson. By contrast, in the Old Testament prophecy was essentially foretelling. The prophets in the Old Testament were used by God to communicate His message to the world. They were individuals who spoke on God’s behalf. Prophets were also called “seers” because they could see, spiritually speaking. They could see into the spiritual realm and foresee future events. They were used by God to warn his people, hold them accountable to God’s plans, and to predict future events. Oftentimes they received dreams, visions and revelations from God that enabled them to speak boldly on His behalf. Some examples of Old Testament prophets:

• Samuel, who anointed two kings of Israel (1 Samuel 3:19–20) • Elijah and Elisha, who anointed (and denounced) national leaders (1 Kings 19:15–16) • Jeremiah, who warned Jerusalem’s leaders that Nebuchadnezzar would take the city (Jeremiah 1:5) • Jonah, who traveled to Nineveh to warn the people of impending divine wrath (Jonah 3) • Isaiah, who announced the coming Messiah (Isaiah 40:3–5) • Moses, who led Israel out of slavery in Egypt and brought them to the edge of the promised land (Deuteronomy 34:10–12)

In the Old Testament, the prophet’s ministry focused on communicating to the people what God was saying because they did not have Holy Spirit dwelling in them. Old Testament prophets literally communicated the mind and plans of God by His Spirit. Their message was based solely on what they heard and saw from God. Today, we have Holy Spirit who reveals truth and tells us of things to come.

John 16:13 NKJV

“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.”

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WRITE IT: List out some of the characteristics of the gift of prophecy. What is its core purpose? How does the gift of prophecy differ from the prophetic ministry in the Old Testament?

Prophecy in the New Testament New Testament prophets are one of the five-fold ministry gifts. This is often referred to as the office gift of prophet.

Ephesians 4:11-13 NKJV

“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, v, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.”

In the New Testament, prophecy shifts strongly to forth telling (speaking forth, or out, God’s Word of edification, exhortation and comfort). Today’s prophetic ministry is more about alerting us to what God has already spoken and encouraging us to get in alignment with His word. However, New Testament prophets (those in the office gift of the prophet) can also be used by God for foretelling of future events. A prophet has a specific call from the Lord, but any believer can operate in the simple gift of prophecy. Nonetheless, the fact that someone operates in the simple gift of prophecy doesn’t make him or her a prophet. Said another way, every prophet will have the simple gift of prophecy, but there are many who have the simple gift who are not prophets. In a similar way, we are called to “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15) and we are instructed to “go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15), but that doesn’t necessarily mean that we are called to the office gift of an evangelist. For a person to stand in the office gift of the prophet, they would need to have been called into the fivefold ministry and appointed by God.

1 Corinthians 12:28 AMP

“So God has appointed and placed in the church [for His own use]: first apostles [chosen by Christ], second prophets [those who foretell the future, those who speak a new message from God to the people], third teachers, then those who work miracles, then those with the gifts of healings, the helpers, the administrators, and speakers in various kinds of [unknown] tongues.”

Some examples of New Testament prophets:

• John the Baptist, who called people to repent as he prepared the way for the Messiah (Luke 1:76, Luke 7:28) • Jesus, who predicted his own death, burial and resurrection

Operating in More Than One Gift Throughout this lesson, we’ve referred to the gift of prophecy as the simple gift of prophecy. This is to distinguish the core purpose of prophecy – to edify, exhort and comfort. In addition, this description refers to when the gift of prophecy is in operation independently (without other gifts) vs. when the gift of prophecy is operating with other gifts. God’s grace is amazing. And He is in control of the gifts, they “are handed out one by one by the one Spirit of God. He decides who gets what, and when.” 1 Corinthians 12:11 MSG. Take for example when Elizabeth greeted Mary; the simple gift of prophecy operated with a word of knowledge and with a word of wisdom.

Luke 1:41-45 TPT

“At the moment her aunt heard Mary’s voice, the baby within Elizabeth’s womb jumped and kicked. And suddenly, Elizabeth was filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit! With a loud voice she prophesied with power: ‘Mary! You are a woman given the highest favor and privilege above all others, for your child is destined to bring God great delight. How did I deserve such a remarkable honor to have the mother of my Lord come and visit me? The moment you came in the door and greeted me, my baby danced inside me with joy! Great favor rests upon you, for you have believed every word spoken to you from the Lord.’”

Elizabeth operated in the simple gift of prophecy as she edified, exhorted, and comforted Mary: “you are a woman given in the highest favor and privilege above all others,” “great favor rests upon you.” Her words also confirmed God’s plan as she spoke out a word of knowledge: “you have believed every word spoken to you from the Lord,” and a word of wisdom: “your child is destined to bring God great delight.” What a blessing Elizabeth’s timely prophetic words must have been for Mary. Prophetic words are lifegiving, refreshing and helpful. “The prophetic gift possesses the freshness of a cool breeze on a sultry day, the invigoration of a wind which sweeps the wide expanses of moorland, the exhilaration of oxygenated air brought from vast oceans.” Howard Carter We commonly hear what is actually a “gift mix” be incorrectly identified as prophecy. For example, when the “gift mix” is the simple gift of prophecy along with a word of wisdom, people often label the foretelling of the future as a word as prophecy. Or, when the “gift mix” includes a word of knowledge, people often label the word spoken about certain known facts as prophecy. Remember, the simple gift of prophecy does not contain foretelling (unless it operates with the gift of a word of wisdom) or contain knowledge of certain facts (unless it operates with the gift of a word of knowledge). God is so amazing. He manifests His Spirit as He wills! This includes having two or more gifts operating at the same time to bless and encourage the church.

1 Corinthians 12:11 AMP

“All these things [the gifts, the achievements, the abilities, the empowering] are brought about by one and the same [Holy] Spirit, distributing to each one individually just as He chooses.”

Romans 12:6 TPT

“God’s marvelous grace imparts to each one of us varying gifts. So if God has given you the grace-gift of prophecy, activate your gift by using the proportion of faith you have to prophesy.”

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Additional Uses of Prophetic Utterances In addition to edification, exhortation and comfort, God can use prophetic utterance to: • Bring conviction.

“But if all of you are prophesying, and unbelievers or people who don’t understand these things come into your meeting, they will be convicted of sin and judged by what you say. As they listen, their secret thoughts will be exposed, and they will fall to their knees and worship God, declaring, ‘God is truly here among you.’” 1 Corinthians 14:24-25 NLT

• Provide direction for ministry.

“Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Now separate to Me Barn abas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.” Acts 13:1-3 NKJV

• Bring warnings.

“And as we stayed many days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. When he had come to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said, ‘Thus says the Holy Spirit, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’” Acts 21:10-11 NKJV

• Identify and impart spiritual gifts.

“Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.” 1 Timothy 4:14

WHAT IS HOLY SPIRIT SAYING TO ME? Review the content about New Testament prophets and the how the gift of prophecy operates. Note what stood out to you the most. What is the significance of this revelation?

Guidance for the Gift of Prophecy As shared in lesson three, even mature believers can be led by their flesh. We need to learn how to operate in the gifts in a healthy and balanced way. Here’s some practical guidance when the simple gift of prophecy is in operation: • Don’t reject the operation of the gift of prophecy. Some pastors and leaders work to stop the gift of prophecy because they cannot personally control it. But Paul’s instructions are clear: “Do not scorn or reject gifts of prophecy or prophecies (spoken revelations—words of instruction or exhortation or warning).” 1 Thessalonians 5:20 AMP • As the gifts flow, ensure that they are constructive and edifying. “What then is the right course, believers? When you meet together, each one has a psalm, a teaching, a revelation (disclosure of special knowledge), a tongue, or an interpretation. Let everything be constructive and edifying and done for the good of all the church.” 1 Corinthians 14:26 AMP • Allow the prophecy to be judged. “…Let two or three prophets prophesy and let the other prophets carefully evaluate and discern what is being said.” 1 Corinthians 14:29 TPT. It’s important to ensure that the prophecy does not lead to confusion and disunity. “For God is the God of harmony, not confusion, as is the pattern in all the churches of God’s holy believers.” 1 Corinthians 12:33 TPT. • Don’t use prophecy for rebuke. Prophesy is for edification, not rebuke. In the New Testament, correction comes when one believer approaches another believer in love to share his or her concerns: “…if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone” Matthew 18:15. It also comes when leaders confront error and teach sound doctrine: “But when I (Paul) saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all, ‘If you, being a Jew, live in the manner of Gentiles and not as the Jews, why do you compel Gentiles to live as Jews?’” Galatians 2:14 NKJV • Avoid using prophetic words to establish doctrine that lack Biblical support. The Bible is the final and all-sufficient source for all truth and doctrine. “God has transmitted his very substance into every Scripture, for it is God-breathed. It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness.” 1 Timothy 3:16 TPT. • Avoid using prophetic words to establish behavioral standards for secondary issues. For example, forbidding someone from going to movies or attending certain dances. Remember, as a child of God you can hear the voice of God. Be careful when someone excessively proclaims that they know “God’s will” regarding certain activities that are not advocated or strictly forbidden in scripture. Jesus is the good shepherd, and you are one of His sheep. “…the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.” John 10:3-4 NKJV.

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Different Kinds of Tongues and the Interpretation of Tongues The remaining utterance or inspiration gifts are different kinds of tongues, and the interpretation of tongues. They are sometimes called the “twin gifts” because they are designed to work together. Let’s begin first by briefly exploring the baptism in the Holy Spirit and the physical evidence of Holy Spirit Baptism – tongues.

The Baptism in the Holy Spirit In the book of Acts, we learn about the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. On the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit fell upon the believers “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:4. This was a powerful moment for the church! God has promised to all believers this special gift of Holy Spirit’s power. This experience, known as the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, provides power to be an effective witness for Jesus.

Acts 1:8 AMP

“But you will receive power and ability when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be My witnesses (to tell people about Me) both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and e ven to the ends of the earth.”

Throughout the history of the early church, Christians continued to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues. Here are some examples: • Peter preaching at the house of Cornelius. “While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.” Acts 10:44-46 NKJV • Paul ministering to the disciples in Ephesus and explaining water baptism and the baptism in the Holy Spirit. “When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.” Acts 19:5-6 NKJV • The promise for all believers. “And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Mark 16:17-18 NKJV Paul himself boasted about speaking in tongues, “I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all.” 1 Corinthians 14:18 NKJV. He knew that speaking in tongues is a powerful tool in the personal life of a Christian. Tongues is a God-given provision for power, praise and prayer. Praying in the Spirit with your personal prayer language builds you up so that you can continue to make progress.

1 Corinthians 14:4 NKJV

“He who speaks in a tongue, edifies himself…”

Jude 20 AMPC

“But you, beloved, build yourselves up (founded) on your most holy faith make progress, rise l ike an edifice higher and higher, praying in the Holy Spirit.”

Tongues is the physical evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is speaking in a language inspired by the Holy Spirit but unknown to the speaker. It is supernatural utterance given by Holy Spirit in a language never learned nor understood by the speaker. It has nothing to do with linguistic ability. It is a manifestation of the mind of the Spirit of God using a human’s voice. When a person is speaking in tongues his mind, intellect, and understanding are in a state of inactivity (at rest, dormancy). Speaking in tongues is speaking directly to God. This includes mysteries and hidden things.

1 Corinthians 14:2 AMP

“For one who speaks in an unknown tongue does not speak to people but to God; for no one understands him or catches his meaning, but by the Spirit he speaks mysteries (secret truths, hidden things).”

While speaking in tongues is one evidence of Holy Spirit’s baptism, it is not the purpose of being filled with the Spirit. The purpose is to receive power to be a witness to tell others about Jesus, to praise and worship God, and to pray for others and yourself.

Acts 2:4,14, 41 NKJV (telling others about Jesus)

“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” … “But Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and said to them” … “Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.”

Ephesians 5:18-19 TPT (praise and worship)

And don’t get drunk with wine, which is rebellion; instead be filled continually with the Holy Spirit. And your hearts will overflow with a joyful song to the Lord. Keep speaking to each other with words of Scripture, singing the Psalms with praises and spontaneous songs given by the Spirit!

Romans 8:25-26 TPT (prayer)

“And in a similar way, the Holy Spirit takes hold of us in our human frailty to empower us in our weakness. For example, at times we don’t even know how to pray, or know the best things to ask for. But the Holy Spirit rises up within us to super-intercede on our behalf, pleading to God with emotional sighs too deep for words.”

Being filled with the Sprit and praying tongues is a powerful part of being a Christian. This type of tongues is most accurately referred to as the grace of tongues. The grace of tongues is for an individual and is often used privately. By contrast, the gift of tongues is to be used for the church, and is used publicly.

EMPOWER BOOKLET

The Public Ministry of the Gift of Tongues and the Interpretation of Tongues The gift of tongues is the supernatural ability to receive and communicate an immediate message from God to His people through a divinely anointed utterance. It is a public utterance in other tongues, accompanied by an interpretation of that tongue so that the hearers may benefit. Tongues and interpretation of tongues are to appear together when used in a public gathering. Interpretation of tongues is the supernatural interpretation of the meaning of an utterance in tongues; it is not a translation word-for-word, but a revealing of the meaning. This is why sometimes the length of the interpretation may be shorter or longer than the message in tongues. The interpretation is declaring the meaning of what was said in tongues. Tongues with interpretation declares the mighty works of God, exalts His name, and prompts believers to worship Him in Spirit and in truth. Public tongues with interpretation, as is true of the simple gift of prophecy, should build up the church. In fact, public tongues plus interpretation equals prophecy. As we learned earlier, Paul exhorts believers to prophesy. In a similar way, he exhorts the church to always have interpretation with public tongues.

1 Corinthians 14:5 TPT

“I would be delighted if you all spoke in tongues, but I desire even more that you impart prophetic revelation to others. Greater gain comes through the one who prophesies, unless there is interpretation so that it builds up the entire church.”

1 Corinthians 14:12-13 AMP

“So it is with you, since you are so very eager to have spiritual gifts and manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in ways that will build up the church (spiritually). Therefore let one who speaks in a tongue pray that he may (be gifted to) translate or explain (what he says).”

In addition to building up the church, public tongues with interpretation provides unbelievers with a demonstration of God’s power. These people can be drawn to God by this empowered expression of His mysteries and truth.

1 Corinthians 14:22 AMP

“Therefore, (unknown) tongues are (meant) for a (supernatural) sign, not to believers but to unbelievers (who might be receptive).”

WRITE IT: Note some of the differences between grace tongues and the gift of tongues.

Guidance for Tongues and the Interpretation of Tongues Of all the gifts, tongues and interpretation of tongues are perhaps the most misunderstood. Here’s some practical guidance when the gift of tongues and interpretation are in operation: • Avoid confusion by doing things decently and in order. In 1 Corinthians 14:33, Paul reminds the church that “God is not the author of confusion.” He also instructs the church in verse 40 to “let all things be done decently in order.” When in a meeting at your church, be sure to follow the leading and direction of your pastor and church leaders. • Limit the number of times tongues and interpretation are in operation in a public service. “If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret.” 1 Corinthians 14:27 NKJV • Always use the public gift of tongues with interpretation. “But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God.” 1 Corinthians 14:28 NKJV • Don’t grieve Holy Spirit. Unfortunately, some people think that using tongues in a public setting is “their big chance” to show others how spiritual they are. Be sure that when you step out to use these gifts that you are following a strong unction of Holy Spirit and don’t grieve the Holy Spirit. “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” Ephesians 4:29-30 NKJV.

Focus on Blessing Others Above all, focus on blessing others when operating in the gift of prophecy, the gift of tongues or the interpretation of tongues. Whenever we step out and operate in the gifts, we need to avoid the trap of fear and the trap of pride. Fear will keep you quiet and in your seat. And pride will have you step out in a way to draw attention to yourself. Focus on the benefits for others, not the impact on yourself. This is done by making it your aim to bless and love others. Ask the Lord: “What do You want to do through me to bless them?” Focus on blessing and loving others because “love never fails” 1 Corinthians 13:8.

1 Corinthians 13:1-2 AMP

“If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love (for others growing out of God’s love for me), then I have become only a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal (just an annoying distraction). And if I have the gift of prophecy (and speak a new message from God to the people), and understand all mysteries, and (possess) all knowledge; and if I have all (sufficient) faith so that I can remove mountains, but do not have love (reaching out to others), I am nothing.”

1 Corinthians 14:18-19 NKJV

“I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all; yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.”

DO IT. Take time now to pray, and ask Holy Spirit to work through you to share a prophetic word of edification, exhortation or comfort with someone in the group. Practice “earnestly desiring” to prophecy. You can share it verbally or by sending someone a brief note or text.

EMPOWER BOOKLET

GOD HAS CHOSEN TO WORK THROUGH US. WE ARE HIS DELEGATED AUTHORITY ON PLANET EARTH, AND PRAYER IS THE VEHICLE THAT GIVES OCCASION FOR HIS INVASION. THOSE WHO DON’T PRAY ALLOW DARKNESS TO CONTINUE RULING. THE ENEMY’S GREATEST EFFORTS AT DECEIVING THE CHURCH ARE CENTERED ON THE PURPOSE AND EFFECT OF PRAYER. Bill Johnson

LESSON 7

What is Prayer? Prayer is fellowship with the Father, the “bridge” that connects our hearts to His. It is communication, companionship, and partnership with God. The devil works overtime to complicate prayer and to make us intimidated and overwhelmed by it, knowing it’s the means through which we cultivate intimate relationship with the Lord. Sketch it: Draw an image that depicts prayer as a bridge between you and God. Add to this drawing as you learn more throughout the lesson.

Consider the people in your life that are in your inner circle, those who you know best and vice-versa. Your intimacy is directly related to spending time together, asking, responding, and listening intently to one another. You set aside your to-do list, you silence the cell phone, you truly prioritize one another by engaging face-to-face. Authentic communication serves to knit your hearts together. The same is true where your relationship with God is concerned. Group Share: Tell of some specific ways that you prioritize communication with the people who are the nearest/dearest to you. What impact does this have? How would applying the same prioritizations to your relationship with the Lord affect your intimacy with Him? Knowing the extraordinary value of authentic communication with God, Jesus chose His words carefully. Notice that in speaking to the disciples He didn’t say, “If you pray” but rather, “When you pray” (Matt. 6) because prayer is a certain prerequisite to keeping us close with the Father. And being in close relationship with us is His greatest intention! God also intends to do things on Earth through us, not independent of us. Believers, hear this: God works to bring about His plans through the prayers of His people! He wouldn’t have to operate this way, but He always has and He always will! Even when God initiates and earnestly desires something, He still needs us to ask. Andrew Murray said, “God’s giving is inseparably connected with our asking.” The very plans of God are unleashed as His people partner with Him in prayer. James 5:16b (NLT) – The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. (AmpC) – The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].

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Mark 11:24 (NKJV) – Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NKJV) – …pray without ceasing…

Write it: Circle key ideas about prayer from the opening paragraph. Then rewrite (paraphrase) these scriptures in your own words, using those key words.

What is Holy Spirit Saying to Me? How does your personal version of these verses impact your thoughts about prayer?

Other translations of 1 Thessalonians 5:17 use phrases such as: pray continually, pray at all times, never stop praying, make your life a prayer. Wow! No wonder there are more than 375 references to prayer in the Bible! God truly desires that we live our lives, praying. There are key elements of prayer to keep in mind as we set about to do so. Let’s look to the word and learn how to pray in God’s presence, pray with humility, pray in faith, pray God’s will, and pray in the Spirit.

Pray in His Presence Contemplate how you prepare yourself to meet with various people. Prior to engaging with an accountant, a tutor, a furniture salesman, a lawncare expert or physical therapist, you likely spend time researching which professionals can best meet your needs. You’re very aware of their names, reputation, credentials, and how they can help you; you prepare yourself for the meeting and attend it with a great deal of intentionality. When you meet with your boss or another person of authority, you come prepared. Wanting the best possible outcome, you do not just “randomly show up” to the meeting, but rather you step into it with high expectations and you anticipate good results. Enter into your meetings with the Father in the same way. Don’t come in scattered, unaware of who God is. Rather, begin times of prayer by speaking His name and attributes. Declare His praise. Rehearse God’s “credentials” by reading Bible verses and saying them aloud! Remind yourself that this isn’t just “another meeting.” You are meeting with the God of the universe! When Jesus modeled how to begin prayer He said, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name” (Matthew 6:9 NKJV). When saying these words, He secured His heart and mind upon the relationship He has with God and He proclaimed God’s holiness. Most church gatherings begin with a time of worship. This is very intentional. It ushers us into His presence. But don’t think that worship is reserved for Sunday morning at church; we can sing in prayer, too! When we sing songs unto God, our hearts become aligned with His. Our focus becomes less worldly and more heavenly. If our prayers are going to move heaven, then they must be prayed with heavenly perspective.

Psalm 100:1c (NKJV)

…Come before His presence with singing.

The more we speak and sing about the Lord, the more aware of Him we become. Distractions fade. Declaring who God is gives Him the place of prominence in our hearts and minds. By continually praising God, our focus shifts from our natural circumstances to His supernatural capabilities. It is then, when we’re more aware of Him than anything else, that we truly enter into His presence!

Psalm 100:4 (NKJV)

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.

Remember that you are a spirit-being! By thanking and praising God, you soon gain access to His presence - to a place in the spirit realm that is “higher” than your feelings or the circumstances of this natural life. The Bible speaks often of God’s high places; there are upper rooms, mountains, walls, and towers all throughout scripture. Some of these high places are literal, such as Mt Sinai, while others are figurative, such as the secret place of the Most High. Some are reached via physical means, such as Moses walking up Mt Sinai, while others are accessed by faith, such as us being hidden high upon a rock. The point to be made is that these places, both naturally- and spiritually-speaking, are real places of prayer where God’s power is unleashed. Group Share: Discuss some high places that you have enjoyed (ie. deer stand, chairlift, army fortress, grand stand seats, tree house). What were the benefits of those high places? What parallels can you draw to being in the presence of the Lord?

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As New Testament believers, being in His presence also means taking our rightful place, having been seated with Christ in heavenly realms. In other words, we pray from the place of victory, authority, and confidence in Him. We “come up” out of the soulish realm to gain His spiritual perspective. We pray, spirit to Spirit. We pray, aware of the union we have with Him as described by Paul:

Ephesians 2:4-6 (NKJV)

But God…made us alive together with Christ…and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.

It is really quite remarkable, that God grants us access to a secret place, a hidden place of partnership with Him in prayer. Let’s pause here and practice entering in, right now: Write it: Focus upon the Lord. Sit quietly for a few moments and consider these questions. What are you thankful for? How has He blessed you recently? Which of His attributes have you encountered? Father, I thank You for: God, You are: I praise You because: Do it: Now read (pray) what you have written aloud. Go back and add more to what is written by allowing fresh words to spring forth from your heart. Take your time, do not rush. Then read it aloud again as a means of entering the presence of the Lord. Q: How would you describe what happened in you as you took time to do this? A: Perhaps the Lord reminded you that He is faithful and that His love is unfailing. Perhaps He gave you the sense that He is God, and you are not. Whatever He has spoken, His words have undoubtedly served to bless you because in God’s presence is encouragement, love, light, peace, and fullness of joy. When we pray to God, we should remind ourselves that we are His children, and He is our Father. We can then come humbly, knowing that our Daddy is a good Daddy, and that we can trust Him.

Pray with Humility When you intentionally look away from distractions and put your focus upon the Lord (see Hebrews 12:2), you’re actually exercising faith while drawing yourself near to God! At the same time, whether you feel His presence or not, you must believe that He is coming near to you as well, because this is what His word promises:

James 4:8a (NKJV)

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you…

Receive God’s nearness by faith. Practice His presence by imagining His face looking upon yours, His arms right there to offer you comfort and strength. It is in this place of “face-to-face” that you are safe to offer your heart to Him. Look how David humbly did this:

Psalm 139:23-24 (NKJV)

Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me; And lead me in the way everlasting.

It’s no wonder the Bible calls David a man after God’s own heart. Can you hear the humility in his words? Humility cries out, “Lord, I need You!” while pride says, “I’m good. I’ve got this.” Like David, you need humility to place your heart before the Lord, to admit sin, wrong choices, and unbiblical mindsets. God knows everything about your heart, and He is more concerned with your teachability and yieldedness to His instruction than with the wrong that you have done. He will lovingly correct, teach and refine you when you are genuine and honest with Him in prayer. Remember that David tripped and fell into sin on many occasions (see Psalm 51) but he searched his heart, identified his sin, received correction, repented, and kept on going in God’s plans for him. We are to do the same. The devil doesn’t want us to approach God like this. He’d rather that we let our hearts get dirty, overwhelmed, bogged down, dark and heavy to the point where we stop coming to God at all! Remember that Satan’s mission is to disrupt our intimacy with the Lord; he will do whatever he can to be successful. So don’t be surprised if you find it challenging (for any host of reasons) to come humbly before the Lord and fully submit your heart to Him. Just determine to step through the challenges and love Him by obeying His word, for real. What is Holy Spirit Saying to Me? Pause and pray before you read these passages. Ask Him to reveal whatever He wants you to know:

James 4:7-10 (NLT)

So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.

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1 John 1:9 (NKJV)

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Underline or circle the words that seemed especially powerful to you. What is Holy Spirit saying?

Why is it important to cleanse and purify your heart as you spend time in prayer?

By taking time in prayer to humbly ask the Lord for forgiveness and cleansing of sin, you’re less likely to entertain the lies of the enemy and are better prepared to exercise your faith!

Pray in Faith Just like God gives everybody the same type of muscular system, He gives everyone the same measure of faith (see Romans 12:3). And just like it is up to an individual to decide what to do with his/her muscles, so it is up to each individual to decide what to do with his/her faith. Exercising faith can be likened to exercising muscle! We all know that muscles left sitting on the couch all day aren’t going to win the race, right? Well, lazy faith won’t see the victory, either! To say that faith is a prerequisite to effective prayer almost seems silly. Why, of course faith is required! It’s the very means through which we access God.

Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Let’s break this down. First, we must understand that only by exercising faith in God are we pleasing to God. Living life in and of our own strength (without putting faith in Him) does not please, honor, or impress God at all. Likewise, praying faithless prayers actually displeases Him. By praying ho-hum, robotic, or routine prayers out of obligation or religious habit, we diminish the value of our relationship while conveying the thought that God probably doesn’t care, isn’t listening, or won’t answer anyway. (Yikes. Imagine what this does to His heart when we talk aimlessly to Him, don’t pay attention to His response, or even worse just ramble on and on with a few memorized lines, thinking they “sound good.”) The second part of the verse explains that when we come to God, we must do so confidently knowing that He is pleased to meet with us and that He intends for us to be blessed while spending time together. He will reward us with perhaps some needed encouragement, a miracle, a fresh perspective, His wisdom, a healing, a strategy to solve some sort of problem, or a myriad of other responses. The key is for us to approach Him in expectancy – fully believing that He hears and answers! Write it: Make a personalized version of this verse by adding “I” in each of the blanks. Then read it aloud as a declaration:

Hebrews 11:6

With faith _____ please God. When _____ come to God in prayer, _____ believe that He is, and _____ am rewarded as one who diligently seeks Him.

Again and again in scripture we hear Jesus comment to people about their faith. He told some that their faith had made them well. He told others that they were part of a faithless and perverse generation. Certainly, we want to be in that first camp. So, how do we increase our faith in God? How do we step out of lifeless praying and into praying with great anticipation and expectancy of being heard and answered? In other words, how do we exercise and strengthen our faith? The answer is to know more intimately the One to whom we pray. If we really know that He is faithful, then we pray expecting His faithfulness to be evident. If we really know that He is good, then we pray anticipating His goodness to be on display. If we really know that He is the Provider, then we pray expecting Him to provide.

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We get to know God by getting to know the word, because He is the word. Romans 10:17 says So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Notice that the verb “hearing” is written in the present tense, not the past. This implies that we hear His voice in an on-going, everyday fashion; we are in relationship with Him every day therefore we hear Him speak every day. So, the more revelation we receive from the word, the more we get to know Him…and the more we get to know Him, the more developed our “faith muscle” becomes! How do we pray effective prayers regarding, for example, God’s provision? By getting to know that He really is what is stated above - the faithful, good Provider. We read, whisper, meditate upon and declare truths such as these:

1 Corinthians 1:9 (NKJV)

God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Psalm 25:8a (NKJV)

Good and upright is the Lord…

Genesis 22:14 (NKJV)

And Abraham called the name of the place, The-Lord-Will-Provide; as it is said to this day, “In the Mount of the Lord it shall be provided.”

The more we do so, the more our faith grows, the more confident we are in praying to God for His provision, the more likely we are to see Him meet our needs! Read Out Loud: Read the following verses and definitions aloud:

Mark 11:22-24 (NKJV)

So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them and you will have them.”

Faith (Gk: pistis) – conviction, confidence, trust, belief, reliance, trustworthiness, and persuasion; the divinely implanted principle of inward confidence, assurance, trust and reliance in God and all that He says.

Believe(s) (Gk: pisteuo) – the verb form of pistis, “faith.” It means to trust in, have faith in, be fully convinced of, acknowledge, rely on. Pisteuo is more than credence in church doctrines or articles of faith. It expresses reliance upon and a personal trust in God that produces obedience.

What is Holy Spirit saying to me? Ask Him to summarize what Jesus is saying in these verses and explain how His message will enhance the way that you pray.

Notice that the definition of faith (pistis) includes “an inward reliance in God and all that He says.” Praying prayers that are aligned with what God says means praying prayers that are aligned with His will. This is another element of effective prayer. 89

Pray God’s Will God’s word is the absolute truth. It is supernatural in power and it defies natural odds. When received, God’s word of promise will never be fruitless; the power in His word will always fulfill the promise of His word. Hear the validity of the word, spoken by God Himself through the prophet Isaiah:

Isaiah 55:10-11 (NKJV)

For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower And bread to the eater, So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.

God’s word is God’s will. Praying His will means praying according to His promises and His reports, believing what He says regardless of what evidence there is in the natural (the report of your five senses). It means believing that God’s truth supersedes natural facts! When God told Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, Abraham had a lot of natural evidence that screamed it couldn’t happen. Abraham was 100 years old, and his body had to have felt like it, but he aligned himself with the report of the Lord anyway. He believed that the report of the Lord trumped the report of his body!

Romans 4:19-20 (NKJV)

And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah’s womb. He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.

Abraham knew God’s promise, thus he knew God’s will. He was not deterred by his five senses, by what others may have said, or any other factor that appeared contrary. He waited in faith and inherited the promise of the Lord! Let’s learn to be diligent like this as we pray the will of God in our lives. Group Share: Read Romans 4:19-20 together. Discuss Abraham’s capacity to put God’s promise above his natural circumstances. How does his example encourage and inspire you? Have you ever faced a serious challenge, known that you need to pray about it, but didn’t know where to start? Begin by devoting time to learn what God’s word says about the issue. Plant that word in your heart! Being certain of His word strengthens your capacity to dwell in Christ, and like a branch that remains connected to its vine, you eventually bear fruit as a result. Jesus explains this truth:

John 15:7 (AmpC)

If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you.

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The implication here is that, when you live your life truly abiding in the Lord, then His words and promises are found within your mind, mouth, and heart. You think like He thinks, you speak like He speaks, you believe like He believes. You dwell in Him and He dwells in you. As a result of all this your will aligns with His will and because you ask God according to that, you are assured that what you ask will be done by Him! WRITE IT: Look to a concordance, a Bible app, or other people to list scriptures that declare God’s will where various life challenges/topics are concerned. Use this list as a reference to pray God’s will for yourself and others this week. LIFE CHALLENGES/TOPICS BIBLE VERSES

Provisions/Needs

Wisdom/Guidance

Health/Healing

Safety/Protection

Parents/Children

Peace/Rest

What about times when the challenge you face is uniquely personal and a Bible verse revealing God’s will is not found? For example, if you want to attend college after graduating high school, you won’t find a scripture telling you which university you should choose. The Bible doesn’t specify whether/how to start your own company, become a missionary, or invite your mother-in-law to live with you, either. In praying for God’s will about these types of situations, you must learn to hear His voice, follow His peace about the matter, seek godly counsel, and pray in tongues in order to know what to do. In regard to hearing His voice, remember that God is a loving and kind Father. Whether disciplining or affirming, commanding or convicting, He always speaks to His children in a way that we are able to receive. In a way that leaves us with an “I just know it is God” impression on the inside, like a whisper of sorts. The writer of 1 Kings describes that Elijah heard God speak with a “still, small voice.”

1 Kings 19:11-13a (NKJV)

Then He said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice. So it was, when Elijah heard it…

Notice Elijah’s posture at the beginning of the passage – he went out and stood before the Lord. The key isn’t about figuring out how or when He will speak His will to you. It is about keeping your spiritual ears open in the waiting. Jeremiah 33:3 promises that when we call to Him, He will answer us… so it’s not a matter of if God will reply, but when. Keep listening. In regard to following God’s peace about a matter, take time and consider the options that lie before you. Being rushed or in a hurry generally doesn’t align with being led by peace. It is right to, as the prophet Isaiah says, wait upon the Lord (Isaiah 40:31). You do not necessarily need to think long and hard about your options or write a list of pros and cons. Simply hold those options before the Lord, and consider which of them brings that inner, peaceful sense that quietly says, “This is My good plan for you.”

Colossians 3:15 (AMPC)

And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].

The role of an umpire is to declare balls and strikes, fair hits and fouls. Similarly, the role of peace in your spirit man is to declare what to do and what not to do, when to speak and when not to speak, etc. Consider the matter and let the peace of God direct your course. Let’s say that you are contemplating a job change and have thought thoroughly about the advantages of quitting to do something else. On paper it looks like there are many more advantages than

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disadvantages…yet you have a “nagging sense” on the inside that leaves an impression in your spirit to stay at the job a bit longer. There may be “no good reason” in the natural. In fact you may hear disapproval from nay-sayers who are telling you to go find different employment. Even a friend at work may be cheering you to take a step toward quitting! Although it may be difficult, you ought to side with peace and remain at the job until you sense Holy Spirit speaking something different. God must have very good reason for you to stay at that place, and in time He will likely reveal why His will is for you to stay-put. It is Biblical to seek godly counsel. There are people God has placed in your life to help and teach you His wisdom. Find someone who is further along in the journey of living for Jesus and ask him/her good questions. Often times the experiences of others can benefit a great deal. Even still, keep in mind that just because an advisor tells you that you should do something, or just because what is the “normal” response to a situation has been considered, that doesn’t necessarily mean it is God’s will for you! Allow godly counsel to be one of the ways that you hear His direction. Holy Spirit will confirm His plans little by little, showing His faithfulness as you wait on Him and refuse to haphazardly “just do what they say.” In regard to praying in tongues, Paul says Holy Spirit will help us in times of weakness, times when we don’t know the best way to pray (see Romans 8:26-27). Greg Mohr, author of Flowing in the Supernatural, says that praying in tongues is praying up the wisdom of God from our spirit so that it might water our mind. God’s wisdom is hidden in our spirt and when we pray in our prayer language it is revealed to our mind. Thus another way to discover the will of God regarding a personal situation is to spend time praying in tongues! What is Holy Spirit Saying to Me? How might you apply this teaching to a particular situation in your life right now?

Recognizing the will of God in your life comes with practice; rest assured it gets easier to do as you become more and more in tune with Holy Spirit.

Pray in the Holy Spirit When Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus he cautioned them to live their lives sensitively, not in foolishness but rather with wisdom that comes from being filled with the Spirit.

Ephesians 5:15-18 (NKJV)

See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit…

The tense of the Greek for “be filled” suggests an ongoing state of being that could be more accurately translated “be being filled.” This makes it clear that the Spirit-filled condition does not stop with a single experience, but it is maintained by continually being filled. Sketch it: Draw the imagery that comes to mind when you think about something being constantly, perpetually filled. Then consider how this drawing reflects God’s desire for you, spiritually.

One of the ways that we can “continually be being filled” with Holy Spirit is by praying in a personal prayer language (“tongues”). When we pray in tongues we are stirring up the presence of His Holy Spirit within us, thus appropriating His wisdom and a better understanding of His will. Praying in the Spirit fosters greater intimacy with God because our spirit is speaking directly to His Spirit. Unlike praying in English when our mind and emotions are involved, praying in tongues offers us a “direct line” from our heart to the very heart of God:

1 Corinthians 14:2 (NKJV)

For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God…

You’ve probably experienced moments with the Lord when your English words seem to fall short. It is impossible to tell Him just how grateful you are, or how much He means to you. Praying in tongues (the grace of tongues as described in lesson 6) is an opportunity to pour that message directly out of you and directly into Him. A heavenly prayer language really does say it all! In lessons 3-6 of this curriculum we learned about the gifts of the Holy Spirit, how to operate in them, and the fruit that they bring forth. Another wonderful benefit of praying in the Spirit is that doing so cultivates faith and opens a supernatural doorway to flowing in the gifts!

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Life’s challenges can discourage and deflate us. But by praying in tongues, our spirit gets built back up:

1 Corinthians 14:4a (NKJV)

He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself…

We mustn’t blame God or over-rely on people to strengthen us when we get discouraged. Paul says that a person who prays in tongues edifies himself. Jude also says it is for us to build ourselves up. By praying in the Spirit, our spirit that may have diminished to “pup tent” size will actually rise high, like a skyscraper!

Jude 20 (AmpC)

But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit…

If considering the many benefits that are ours by praying in tongues leads you to wonder why you don’t spend more time doing so, make a decision to begin today. Surely, God has given us a beautiful blessing with this type of prayer. Truth be told, all kinds of prayer are beautiful blessings, so let’s pray! 1 Corinthians 14:15a (Amp)

Then what am I to do? I will pray with the spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me] and I will pray with the mind [using words I understand]…

Write it: Copy the verse and make it a declaration as you do so.

THE ONLY LOGICAL ANSWER TO THE QUESTION OF WHY ELIJAH NEEDED TO PRAY IS TO IMPLY THAT GOD HAS CHOSEN TO WORK THROUGH PEOPLE. EVEN WHEN IT IS THE LORD HIMSELF INITIATING SOMETHING, EARNESTLY DESIRING TO DO IT, HE STILL NEEDS US TO ASK. Dutch Sheets

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LESSON 8

What is Intercessory Prayer? In order to understand what is meant by intercessory prayer, it is necessary to first understand the concept of intercession in general. Intercession can be defined as mediating, going between, pleading for another, representing one party to another. It happens in court, when lawyers intercede between clients and judges. Intercession also happens in contractual meetings when attorneys represent one party to another or when an associate represents the business owner to a customer. Counselors intercede (mediate) in family discussions when an addict’s loved ones decide to intervene. Parents intercede for their children when difficult things need to be discussed with teachers, coaches, and others who lead them. Intercession always involves delegation, authority and representation. Intercessory prayer is prayer that uses intercession. In part, intercessory prayer is the faithful, continual pleading before God that one person (or group of people) does on behalf of another. It is prayer that solicits the Lord to take action in someone else’s situation. Intercessory prayer happens when a person (or group of people) resolves to “stand in the gap,” thereby connecting the person/people being prayed for with God’s will. Our prayers of intercession are actually an extension of the work of intercession that Jesus did for us! And our capacity to engage in the fullness of intercessory prayer hangs upon our revelation of the finished work that Jesus did as our One and Only Mediator. We will cover this in greater detail later. For now, let’s take a look at Biblical examples of intercessory prayer and the effects that those prayers had in both the old and new testaments.

Intercessory Prayer in the Old Testament In the Old Testament, God represented Himself through kings, prophets, and priests. Kings were chosen by God to carry and use power and authority in leading and governing the people. Prophets were anointed by God to declare His words of direction and instruction so that His people could live according to His will. Priests were positioned by God to offer mercy, serve healing, and forgive those in need. Each of these roles exemplified a facet of intercession. Each role “held a place” between God and man. The king, the prophet, and the priest were uniquely anointed to serve as a “link” between God and man; they represented God’s voice (spoke God’s word) to His people, and also represented the people’s voice (spoke their concerns, sins, needs) to God. Sketch it: Draw an image that depicts what it “looks like” for the king, priest, prophet to stand between God and man.

King David prayed to God on behalf of his son, Solomon:

1 Chronicles 29:19 (NKJV)

And give my son Solomon a loyal heart to keep Your commandments and Your testimonies and Your statutes, to do all these things and to build the temple for which I have made provision.

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Moses mediated between Israel and the Lord on numerous occasions. Again and again this Hebrew prophet/teacher/leader spoke to the Lord on behalf of His people, often reminding God of the promises He had made to them. Moses’ prayers of intercession were very effective. Note the results:

Exodus 32:9-13 (NKJV)

And the Lord said to Moses, “I have seen this people, and indeed it is a stiff-necked people! Now therefore, let Me alone, that My wrath may burn hot against them and I may consume them. And I will make of you a great nation.” Then Moses pleaded with the Lord his God, and said: “Lord, why does Your wrath burn hot against Your people whom You have brought out of the land of Egypt with great power and with a mighty hand? Why should the Egyptians speak, and say, ‘He brought them out to harm them, to kill them in the mountains, and to consume them from the face of the earth’? Turn from Your fierce wrath, and relent from this harm to Your people. Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, Your servants, to whom You swore by Your own self, and said to them, ‘I will multiply your descendants as the stars of heaven; and all this land that I have spoken of I give to your descendants, and they shall inherit it forever.’” So the Lord relented from the harm which He said He would do to His people.

Numbers 14:19-20 (NKJV)

Pardon the iniquity of this people, I pray, according to the greatness of Your mercy, just as You have forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now. Then the Lord said “I have pardoned, according to Your word.”

In Joel chapter two we read that the priests were mediators for the nation and interceded with tears. Their intercessory prayers caused God’s power to be unleashed:

Joel 2:17-18, 20c-21 (AMPC)

Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar; and let them say, Have pity and spare Your people, O Lord, and give not Your heritage to reproach, that the [heathen] nations should rule over them or use a byword against them. Why should they say among the peoples, Where is their God? Then was the Lord jealous for His land and had pity on His people…because He has done great things [the Lord will have destroyed the invaders]! Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice, for the Lord has done great things!

We find the prophet Daniel’s prayer of intercession for God’s people in Daniel chapter 9.

Daniel 9:16, 19 (NKJV)

O Lord, according to all Your righteousness, I pray, let Your anger and Your fury be turned away from Your city Jerusalem, Your holy mountain; because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and Your people are a reproach to all those around us…O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and act! Do not delay for Your own sake, my God, for Your city and Your people are called by Your name.”

God answered this prayer by giving Daniel revelation of the coming Messiah and the kingdom of God (see Daniel 7:20-27). The intercessory prayers of the king, priest, and prophet brought tremendous effects! People were prepared and empowered to fulfill God’s calls and purposes. God’s judgment was withheld. Those in danger were rescued. Wisdom, clarity and vision were given. We can readily see the impact of intercessory prayer in the New Testament, as well…

Intercessory Prayer in the New Testament Imagine how it was to be alive while Jesus lived and ministered on earth. If you needed wisdom or instruction, you listened to Him teach. If you were sick, you sought Him and received healing. If you were blind, He opened your eyes and if your body was crippled, He raised you up. You needn’t pray to Jesus for your needs to be met, you simply went to Jesus and received from Him. As His departure drew near, He explained that it was actually a really good thing that He would return to the Father because His Helper, Holy Spirit, would make His power fully available to all those who believed.

John 16:7, 23-24 (NKJV)

Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you… And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.

Jesus is saying that once He has gone to be with the Father, no one will be able to ask Him directly for what they need because, quite simply, He won’t be there! The literal, physical person of Jesus Christ will have left planet earth. His departure will bring about a new means of appropriating God’s blessings. From that point on, believers will pray to God – they will ask the Father for what they need in the name of Jesus, by faith, with the authority that His name carries. Not only that, but they will also be given the same authority that Jesus had to minister just as He did:

John 14:12-14 (NKJV)

Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.

Keep in mind that Jesus was a pray-er. He communed with the Father continually. It is interesting to note that the disciples didn’t specifically ask Jesus to show them to do miracles, teach, or minister to people. The one thing that the disciples did specifically ask Jesus to teach them was how to pray. They realized that Jesus did what He did and said what He said as a result of having prayed to His Father in heaven. They saw that prayer was powerful and they wanted to know how to do it, so they asked. His response was given in the form of a modeled prayer that included (a)praise and worship, (b)calling forth the fullness of heaven on earth, (c)making petitions, (d)appropriating and distributing forgiveness, (e)deliverance from evil, and (f)even more praise:

Matthew 6:9-13 (NKJV)

In this manner, therefore, pray: (a)Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. (b)Your kingdom come Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. (c)Give us this day our daily bread. (d)And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. (e)And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. (f)For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

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On the night of His betrayal Jesus went before God in intercessory prayer for His disciples and for all believers, everywhere. Listen:

John 17:9, 11, 13-17, 20, 26 (NKJV)

I do not pray for the world, but for those whom You have given Me for they are Yours…keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are…these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth…I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word…I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.

It is an extraordinary thing to consider the benefits of Jesus “standing in the gap” while praying for us some 2,000 years ago! Today we are beneficiaries of the effects of His prayer. The unity that we enjoy with God and others, the joy that fills our hearts, the protection that we experience from danger and evil, and the way that His word separates us from the world and sets us apart unto Him – all of this is fruit of His intercessory prayer. (Thank You, Jesus, for praying.) Write It: Take a moment and consider John 17, Jesus’ prayer for you. Express your gratitude to Him.

God did a new thing after Jesus ascended to heaven. Believers no longer needed a king, priest or prophet in order to access the Father. They simply took hold of what Jesus had explained before leaving; they operated by the power of His Holy Spirit and in the authority of His name. When we read prayers that were prayed in the New Testament, we should be easily inspired to think that this same new covenant church is still alive today, and we get to be members of it! Look at the impact intercessory prayer had upon Peter when he was in prison:

Acts 12:5-11 (NKJV)

Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison. Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up saying, “Arise quickly! And his chains fell off his hands. Then the angel said to him, “Gird yourself and tie on your sandals”; and so he did. And he said to him, “Put on your garment and follow me.” So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. When they were past the first and the second guard posts, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and they went out and went down one street, and immediately the angel departed from him. And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.”

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The church prayed, God sent His angel, and Peter was delivered as a result! God moves in response to prayer! In Acts 28 Luke explains that he, Paul, and others were staying on the island of Malta with a prominent Roman official whose father was in need of healing. Paul interceded in prayer:

Acts 28:8-9 (NKJV)

And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed.

Paul included his prayers for the churches at Ephesus and Philippi when he wrote them letters:

Ephesians 3:14-19 (NKJV)

For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height- to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Philippians 1:9-11 (NKJV)

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

Knowing first-hand the amazing power of intercessory prayer, Paul advised his mentee, Timothy, to pray for all people, particularly those in authority:

1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NKJV)

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Clearly intercessory prayers bring the power of God onto the scene: miraculous angelic intervention, deliverance, healing, spiritual maturity, Holy Spirit empowerment, strong leadership, discernment, and understanding come to pass when people pray! Let’s devote ourselves to growing as intercessory pray-ers so that the Lord’s love and power will be on display and so that others will see the finished work of Jesus! We begin by grasping the significance of His work being finished!

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Our Prayers of Intercession Extend Jesus’s Work of Intercession Jesus is our intercessor-mediator (see 1 Timothy 2:5). What this means for us today is that He is our Advocate with the Father and is now our representative, guaranteeing our access to God and to our benefits of redemption. In his book, Intercessory Prayer, Dutch Sheets explains further:

“Basically, humanity needed two things after the Fall. They needed someone to “go between” themselves and God to reconcile themselves to God; they also needed someone to “go between” themselves and Satan to separate themselves from him. One was a uniting, the other a disuniting. One reestablished headship, the other broke headship. It was a twofold work of intercession. We needed both. Jesus did both. As the intercessor-mediator, He went between God and humanity, reconciling us to the Father; and between Satan and humanity, breaking Satan’s hold. That was the redemptive work of intercession, and it is complete… This revelation is critical. It means our prayers of intercession are always and only an extension of His work of intercession.” (pp48-49)

We must understand that we do not have to produce anything! Forgiveness, redemption, deliverance, victory, healing, etc. – the work to secure these things has already been done. Reconciliation is complete. Salvation is complete. Intercession is complete. The work is finished! (Remember when Jesus said, “It is finished?” This was what He meant! See John 19:30) So now, our role is to engage in intercessory prayer and distribute what Jesus accomplished; we ask the Father for the release and application of these things as we go to Him on behalf of others! Think of it this way: Jesus is the Victor, and we enforce His victory. Jesus is the Redeemer, and we release His redemption. Jesus is the Generator, and we distribute His power. We can be confident in so doing, because God has given us all the strategies, all the weapons and all the means we need to engage in this spiritual warfare. Again, our prayers of intercession release His finished work of intercession!

Today’s Royal Priesthood First of all, in order to engage in intercessory prayer, we assume the role of kings/prophets/priests, spiritually speaking. The Bible says that Jesus has given us these roles:

Revelation 1:5b-6 (NKJV)

To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Revelation 5:9b-10 (NKJV)

And (You) have redeemed us to God by Your blood Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth.

As kings, under the King of Kings, we are the new breed – the reborn, to whom God has delegated authority in order that the powers of His rule are extended and administrated. As kings we pray in the power of His Holy Spirit and in His love. We confront the dark powers of hell through assertive prayer warfare, anticipating the miraculous works of God. Assuming the role of prophet means that we testify in prayer according to the word and promises of God. We proclaim declarations of truth, spoken in love, and release God’s life-giving, overcoming power.

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As His royal priesthood we, the saints, reign now with Christ on the earth by our worship, our prayers and our witness, both in how we speak and in what we do. The Bible says that we have actually been chosen by God for the special privilege of representing Him!

1 Peter 2:9 (NKJV)

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

What an honor to be deemed a priest to God, chosen to advance His kingdom through faithful service and praiseful worship. The spirit of worship is an essential element in advancing His kingdom on earth. Sketch it: Now draw an image that depicts what it “looks like” for you to stand between God and man.

Worship is a Weapon Psalm 22:3 explains that God is enthroned in the praises of His people. This means that wherever God’s people exalt His name, He is ready to manifest His kingdom’s power. Our praise actually prepares a specific place for Him among us! Our prayerful worship acts as an entrance way for God’s kingdom to come and for His will to be done in our circumstances. Praising God at all times, even (especially!) in the face of terrible situations, is one of the most important spiritual war tactics of intercessory prayer. When we refuse to be distracted by the circumstances and choose instead to put the focus on Him in praise and worship, God’s power is unleashed in a supernatural way. We see a wonderful example of this in the book of Acts. After casting a demon out of a young girl, Paul and Silas were brought to the authorities, beaten, and put into prison. They chose to praise God, despite their horrible circumstances! Note the results:

Acts 16:22-26 (NKJV)

Then the multitude rose up together against them; and the magistrate tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods. And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely. Having r

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eceived such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.

What is Holy Spirit saying to me? Paul and Silas could have easily gotten trapped in their feelings while sitting in prison, but they set aside how they felt and chose to praise the Lord instead of dwelling on their awful situation. Imagine what would/would not have occurred if they hadn’t done this. Why is it important for you to praise Him when you engage in intercessory prayer for others?

The Church will only experience God’s power as she prioritizes and grows in humble, authentic worship to the King. Living life in pure, constant worship is related to exercising true, God-given authority. What is more, our praise and worship is mightily confusing to the enemy! Look at the impact of King Jehoshaphat’s decision to praise when the enemy came from all sides:

2 Chronicles 20:18, 21-23 (NKJV)

And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem bowed before the Lord, worshiping the Lord…And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed those who should sing to the Lord, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying: “Praise the Lord, For His mercy endures forever.” Now when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Sir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated.

When you intercede in prayer for those who are under attack remember that praise brings God’s presence and God’s presence confounds and scatters the enemy! Evil spirits are defeated and must flee! In this passage we see that three enemy armies were confused to the point of coming against one another and themselves! Praise in prayer brings victory for the righteous! The victory that Jesus obtained is also enforced when we testify of the overcoming power in His blood.

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Holy Spirit is Your Helper We cannot effectively intercede in prayer based solely on our own perspective or understanding. Since we never really thoroughly know how to pray as we ought, we must exercise humility and faith to wait on God and let the Helper direct us. We are His sheep and we hear His voice (see John 10:4). We are children of God and are led by Him (see Romans 8:14). We do not need to “come up with something” to pray about. We simply partner with Him by being yielded with sincerity of heart, and obey His prompts. Holy Spirit may move through us with weeping, travailing (“birthing” or bringing forth a new thing), wrestling, fasting, singing, dreams, visions, mental pictures, physical movements, impressions, verses of Scripture quickened to us, or even silence. It is as we patiently wait for and yield to His direction that our prayers of intercession are most effective and bring great glory to God. There are times when you might feel at a loss for words about a particular person and his/her circumstance or a situation in general. You may have no idea how to pray about it. In this case the very best thing is to allow Holy Spirit to help you by trusting Him to “fall into the situation with you” and then lead you through. Paul explains this to the church at Rome:

Romans 8:26-27 (NKJV)

Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Other translations say that Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words, through wordless groans, and with emotional sighs too deep for words. Sometimes as we intercede in prayer we will encounter a situation that is so heavy that what comes up from the belly (the spirit man deep inside) is uttered and expressed without natural language. This is a deep, inward form of prayer, where your spirit connects with Holy Spirit in a supernatural expression of God’s will. At times it may sound like unpleasant, noisy bawling, and at others like gentle weeping or even sighs. This scripture can also refer to speaking or praying in other tongues; again, what is uttered does not make sense to the human mind. But rest assured, that is perfectly fine. We pray this way, fully yielded to Holy Spirit. God knows the mind of His Spirit and He makes intercession according to His will. Our role is to trust Him as He helps us.

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God Searches for Intercessors

Isaiah 59:16a (NKJV)

He saw that there was no man, And wondered that there was no intercessor…

Ezekiel 22:30 (NKJV)

So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land…

God is looking for those who will “stand in the gap” in prayer. It is His intention for intercessors to extend the work of intercession that Jesus accomplished at Calvary. He has provided us examples to follow, weapons, and armor for battle. He speaks His strategies to us and Holy Spirit promises to help us pray for others according to the word of God and with the authority of the mighty name of Jesus. Heeding the call to intercede in prayer will cost time, energy, sleep, purity of heart and greater faith than most other things we do in life…but it will also produce more fruit and glorify God more than most other things we do in life, as well. All throughout the Bible God has made it clear: intercessory prayer releases the explosive power of His Holy Spirit in our midst. Let us be those who intercede in prayer! Let us begin today! Do it: Pause and wait on the Lord for a few moments. Let Him whisper what is on His heart and show you how to appropriate it for others as you pray in faith.

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Appendix Prophetic words given by the Lord during the writing of this curriculum: God is on display. God is on display. Like the old Dayton’s Christmas event. What are the up to? What will we see? Don’t worry about the wait. You just walk right thru. And see what was built. See what was made. God is on display. His church is the event. What are they up to? What will we see? Don’t worry about the wait. Just walk right in. See what he’s building. See what he’s making. God is on display. Don’t Make it Hard – Just Flow Don’t make it hard. Don’t make it complicated. I make it easy. I make it simple. I’ll show you how. Just follow the unction and flow. Just like you’re teaching, I will empower you – your mind, thoughts and ideas. Let Me carry what’s Mine Let me carry what’s mine. I’ve got it. And I’ve got you. Just do your part – believe, trust, declare. Just be your part – sons and daughters, whole, appointed. Just say your part – faith, the word, blessings. Greater peace will be yours as you give me more, trust me for more and experience my more. Let me carry what’s mine. Piece and parts. Pieces and parts. Not the whole yet. Start with each piece, each part. Then the whole will come. Like a puzzle, some pieces will fit tight together, others are pieces -- but in another place, but still in the same puzzle. So work each piece. Work each piece as you build the whole.

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There is a move of God coming. I am about to do something in your day that you would not believe even if you were told. I have so much more for my children. I have my Holy Spirit power ready for them to access. It is imperative for them to be equipped in this way. To ignore this power is futile living. I make it easy not difficult, new not old or stale. I make it last not fleeting or brief. I make it full not half or part way. I make it flow not forced or stalled. I make it powerful not weak or lifeless. I make it united not scattered of divided. So, join together with me to see what I will do in you and in others. Through you for my church and on you as you minister freedom by the Spirit. Anyone who cares to indulge themselves in My love story will be blessed beyond measure. I hear you, I see you, I love you, and I will do all that I have promised. My Holy Spirit is being poured out on My people in this season. Where there is hunger, I will satisfy. Where there is lack, I will overflow. Where there is dryness, I am the fountain that never runs dry. I am here to do abundantly more than you could imagine. I am Your everything. See Me on display, My power and supernatural wonders. Behold I am doing a new thing. There are so many that have been distant from Me. They have been separated by a virus--a spiritual virus. I am a Father who is close. I do not have My arms crossed, but they are stretched wide to love and accept each one, ready to embrace them. My heart is not only that people know that I love them, but that they know in their inner being My love for them. I see a BIG HUGE FAN and it’s moving, a moving motion. The Lord would say My power--the same power that raised Christ from the grave. Like a generator, activated to fuel and to motivate My people. My Spirit, alive in you, giving life. Giving direction, help, wisdom. All that you could need. I nudge you on the inside. Trust Me. It’s your choice to stay on the shore--holding back, or to jump in the river--and experience the flow. I invite you in...take the first step, then take the leap. Experience My presence and power. My Words and My heart--first for you, then for others. So flow, flow and flow. I will lead the way. Don’t hesitate--go!

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The active work of Holy Spirit in the world today: 1. He dwells in every believer. – John 14:17; 1 Corinthians 3:16 2. He gives us access to the Father. – Ephesians 2:18 3. He convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment. – John 16:8 4. He frees us from the power of sin. – Romans 8:2 5. He gives us new life. – Titus 3:5 6. He seals those who believe. – Ephesians 1:13 7. He is the guarantee of our inheritance. – Ephesians 1:14 8. From His place in your heart, He cries out, “Abba, Father.” – Galatians 4:6 9. He bears witness together with our spirits that we are children of God. – Romans 8:16 10. He prays for us. – Romans 8:26 11. He testifies about Jesus. – John 15:26 12. He speaks to us. – Revelation 2:7 13. He teaches us. – John 14:26 14. He will bring all things Jesus said to our remembrance. – John 14:26 15. He guides us into truth. – John 16:13 16. He hears from God and tells it to us. – John 16:13 17. He tells us things to come. – John 16:13 18. He searches the deep things of God and reveals them to us. – 1 Corinthians 2:10 19. He confirms what is true. – Romans 9:1 20. He receives of Jesus and shows it to us. John 16:14 21. He encourages us. – Acts 9:31 22. He emboldens us. – Acts 4:31 23. He empowers us with inner strength. – Ephesians 3:16 24. He empowers us to be a witness. – Acts 1:8 25. He brings joy. – 1 Thessalonians 1:6 26. He brings freedom. – 2 Corinthians 3:17 27. He transforms us into the image of Jesus. – 2 Corinthians 3:18 28. He helps us obey. – 1 Peter 1:22 29. He leads us. – Romans 8:14 30. He gives us personal instruction. – Acts 8:29 31. He calls us for service. – Acts 13:2 32. He appoints leaders and overseers in the Church. – Acts 20:28 33. He produces fruit in our lives. – Galatians 5:22-23 34. He gives us gifts. – 1 Corinthians 12:4 35. He communes with us. – 2 Corinthians 13:14 36. He creates. – Job 33:4; Psalm 104:30; Genesis 1:1-3 37. He quickens, gives or imparts life. – John 6:63; Romans 8:11 38. He moves holy men to prophecy. – 2 Peter 1:21; 2 Samuel 23:2-3 39. He is the Spirit of Holiness and He makes us holy. – Romans 1:4; 2 Thessalonians 2:13 40. He is the Spirit of Truth – John 14:17; John 15:26 41. He is the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding – Isaiah 11:2 42. He is the Spirit of Counsel and Might – Isaiah 11:2 43. He is the Spirit of Knowledge and of the Fear of the Lord – Isaiah 11:2 44. He is the Spirit of Grace – Hebrews 10:29 45. He helps and comforts – John 14:26 46. He is always there. – Psalm 139:7-10 EMPOWER BOOKLET

Suggested Resources The Gifts and Ministries of the Holy Spirit by Lester Sumrall Flowing in the Supernatural by Greg Mohr The Master is Calling by Lynne Hammond The Art of Prayer by Kenneth E Hagin Practicing His Presence by Brother Lawrence and Frank Laubach When Heaven Invades Earth by Bill Johnson Intercessory Prayer by Dutch Sheets Jesus Our Intercessor by Charles Capps

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