 These
are "unofficial notes" taken by one of the attendees at the March
30, 2001 presentation and are not necessarily an accurate representation
of Dr. Lindsley's presentation. If you want to get an audio or video tape
of the presentation they may be ordered for a minimal fee. Audio
tapes | Video tapes |
Summary of
Dr. Arthur Lindsley's Teaching
The Holy Spirit as Advocate
Are you a passionate Christian? Where is the truth and power in the lives
of we Christians? Why don't we demonstrate the power of God?
Over the years some have suggested there are three stages of Christianity:
The first is when we are content to sit back and be observers. The second
is when we are willing to get involved and serve (e.g.,
feeding the poor) but doing so without passion. The third stage
is when we become passionate and dedicated Christians like Abraham and
Moses were.
There has been a lack of power in the church today because we lack an
understanding of the power of the Holy Spirit and the ascension. We have
not understood what happened to Jesus when He left us. Luke 24:49-53 tells
us the disciples returned to Jerusalem with "great joy"
(not pain) after Jesus ascended into heaven.
Consider three things:
- Where was Jesus going? To sit at the right hand of the Father.
The early Christians were so committed that they could not proclaim
loyalty to anyone or anything except Christ crucified and risen. They
were willing to die for this loyalty. All they had to do to be spared
from the lions was to proclaim Caesar as lord and curse the name of
Jesus. They wouldn't do it. Why? Because they knew who Jesus was and
where He was.
Today we are often too apathetic. We need to assert the truth that Jesus
is Lord over all things. Nothing happens without His knowledge and His
allowing it to happen.
-
Who was Jesus sending in His place? The Bible tells us He
promised to send a helper, comforter, an advocate, intercessor...
The Holy Spirit is like having a friend in court with you, an attorney
who is tied to you by loyalty, who is passionate for your cause. Jesus
was the first advocate. The Holy Spirit is the second. He will be
with us so we can proceed in strength and without fear. It is hard
to talk to non-Christians about judgment, sin and unrighteousness
It is not us but the Holy Spirit, acting as an advocate, who will
convict the spirit of the non-Christian.
- What He continues to pray and intercede for us. The Lord prays
for us, especially in our weakness. Should we not then be secure in
the knowledge of this? He intercedes for us in the will of the father.
Seek to experience the power of His presence in your lives. Be passionate
and committed to Him.
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