From 2001-2013 I attended 3 or 4 seminars with Ray Fulenwider. At that time I was using a lot of his material to help grow the congregations were I served. I have read his books and taught his material for many years. His material in The Servant-Driven Church, The Prayer-Driven Church, and The People Church have blessed me immensely over the years. In the Summer of 2004 I heard him teach the 10 Commandments For The 21st Century Church. I wanted to share them with you….. (1) God commands us to lift up Christ in our community (John 12:32). (2) God commands us to be a caring church (Luke 10:25-37). (3) God commands us to be in the people business (Matthew 25:31-46). (4) God commands us to be a grace centered (Ephesians 2:8). (5) God commands us to learn and share His story (Matthew 28:16-20). (6) God commands us to have committed, prayerful spiritual leaders (Acts 20:28-38). (7) God commands us to use our God-given talents to serve (Ephesians 4:11-15, I Peter 4:10-11). (8) God commands us to be a community of believers as God's extended family in the world (John 3:16). (9) God commands us to dare to be different (I Corinthians 12-14, Hebrews 10:19-25). (10) God commands us to be a place to call home (I Thessalonians 1:1-10, I Corinthians 9:19-27). These Ten Commandments are actually described in greater detail in the first chapter of The Servant-Driven Church. I am sharing this list with you because I noticed something in this list that had not struck me until recently. Notice his 5th point: God commands us to learn and share His story (Matthew 28:16-20). Ray Fulenwider realized a long time ago that we needed to see the Bible as God’s story and that we are a continuation of the Lord's story. Next year our church family will embark on a journey to read the entire Bible in 2024. I am hoping it will reignite your passion for the Bible. We will consider the unfolding progression of characters and events from Genesis to Revelation. The Bible is filled with stories of intrigue, drama, conflict, romance, and redemption. My prayer is that you will join us as we get to the heart of God’s story. Read the Bible with us and be blessed. Have a great week!!! You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok#bibletiktok #Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry #didaskobibleinstitute

I've been blessed to be a part of the Summerdale Church of Christ family for over 5 years now. We've gone through lots of changes in church leadership, membership, sickness, death and growth. One thing has not changed. Our love for one another. This has radiated beyond the four walls of our church building. We have dozens of visitors each week that say the same thing: "This is such a friendly church!" No, I don't want to brag, but I do want to offer some praise. Where there is friendliness and genuine love the church will grow. It's all about the love! There are hundreds of references to love in the Bible, and it reveals itself as the most remarkable book of love in the world. It records the greatest love story ever written, which is God’s unconditional love for us that sent His Son to die on the cross (John 3:16, I John 4:10). The Bible is the “Book of Love.” Love is one of God’s attributes, but it is also an essential part of His nature (Deuteronomy 7:7-8). “God is love,” (I John 4:8, 16) which means that He is the personification of perfect love. Such love surpasses our powers of understanding (Ephesians 3:19). Love like this is everlasting (Jeremiah 31:3), free (Hosea 14:4), sacrificial (John 3:16), and enduring to the end (John 13:1). There are four different words for love in the Greek language. Two of those distinct words, meaning “to love”, appear in the Bible. The word phileo, which means “to have ardent affection and feeling” or a type of impulsive love, and the word agapao, which means “to have esteem” or “high regard.” In the memorable conversation between Jesus and Peter, there is a play upon these two words (John 21:15-17). The warm word agape is the characteristic term of Christianity. This word for love is used several different ways in the Bible. (1) Agape love indicates the nature of the love of God toward His beloved Son (John 17:26), toward the human race generally (John 3:16, Romans 5:8), and toward those who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:21). (2) Agape love conveys God’s will to His children about their attitude toward one another. Love for one another was a proof to the world of true discipleship (John 13:34-35). This love should come natural to the Christian. (3) Agape love expresses the essential nature of God (I John 4:8). Love can be known only from the actions it prompts, as seen in God’s love in the gift of His Son (I John 4:9-10). Love found its perfect expression in Jesus. Christian love is the fruit of the Spirit of Jesus in the believer (Galatians 5:22). I have heard it said that “Love is like oil to the wheels of obedience.” It enables us to run the way of God’s commandments (Psalm 119:32). Without such love, we are truly nothing (I Corinthians 13:3). Such Spirit-inspired love will never fail (I Corinthians 13:8) but always flourishes. And its what the church needs today. We should seek to have the love of the New Testament Christians. Are you ready to experience that kind of love? Have a great week!!! You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok #Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry #didaskobibleinstitute

The year of 1911 was filled with praise for the Holy Scriptures. The media was overwhelmed with references to the Bible and the authority of God! Can you guess why? The King James Version of the Bible (Authorized Version of the Church of England) turned 300 years old! Well, in 2011 the KJV Bible turned 400! I watched throughout the year to see if the media covered this event. Not a lot was said about this occurrence. Curious, isn’t it? In December the National Geographic (12/11/11) chose to dedicate a large portion of their publication to discuss the origins of the KJV. I encourage you to get a copy of it to see how the Bible has been translated and preserved through the years. There are some very interesting things in those articles. While most of you know I'm not a huge fan of the KJV, I do have a profound respect for what it did in the course of human history. Over 3000 years ago Solomon said that "of making many books there is no end" (Ecclesiastes 12:12). Many books deserve respect, but a special reverence should be reserved only for the 66 books which originated in heaven, the Holy Scriptures. No matter which translation you read. We understand the dangers of adding or to subtracting from the words of the Bible (Deuteronomy 4:2, 12:32, Revelation 22:18-19). It is a Holy Book! David, who was privileged to be one of God's penmen, once said, "The Spirit of the Lord spoke by me, and his word was in my tongue" (II Samuel 23:2). King David chose to magnify the integrity and the purity of heaven's communication to mankind. He also said, "The words of the Lord are pure, as silver melted in a furnace, refined seven times" (Psalm 12:6) and "Forever, O Lord, your word is settled in heaven" (Psalm 119:89). David's son Solomon, who was also privileged to write three inspired books, said, "Of all inspired books he wrote: Every word of God has proven to be true" (Proverbs 30:5) and "Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you, and you be found false" (Proverbs 30:6). Do you know where Solomon learned this respect for Scripture? At home. From his father, David. What are you teaching your children about the Bible? In his translation of the Greek, and additional commentary, Hugo McCord noted that Paul wanted the Corinthian Christians to "learn through us [the inspired apostles] not to regard men more highly than what is written (I Corinthians 4:6, FHV). Great teachers understand this terrific responsibility of teaching others to respect the Scriptures. Have you heard it said, "The Bible says it. I believe it. That settles it."? What a great concept to adopt! I want to encourage you to read your Bible in 2024. Cover to cover! Read it and study it. Make this be the year you gain a profound respect for the Holy Scriptures and deepen your relationship with our Lord. Have a great week!!! You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok #Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry #didaskobibleinstitute

Gracious God, Giver of Every Good Gift, We acknowledge that life, health, and joy Are your pleasant favors to us. Thus we thank You for parents, mates, and children, For siblings, friends, and colleagues who bless our lives. We affirm your greatness at sunrise and sunset, Praise you for productive days and sweet rest that follows. Yours is the glory and honor and majesty For all the things we see and enjoy and savor. We understand that work, responsibility, and the power to earn Are granted to us by your sovereign goodness. We praise you for all that has been provided to us And for all you have enabled us to provide for others. We also recognize the dark gifts that life brings to all In the forms of loss and illness, lack and heartache. While these are neither your intent nor work in our lives. Even there we honor you for your faithfulness as our God. We sense your strength when we are at our weakest, And we experience your fullness best in our emptiness. Thus we dare to sing in prison cells and laugh at death, For you are the God of life beyond these mortal limitations. If we sensed no pain, would we flee to you for comfort If no imperfection, could we marvel at your excellence If no insecurity, would we worship any gods but ourselves If no sin, would we ever choose the path of redemption On this Thanksgiving Day, then, we thank you for the sunshine and storm, For Eden that gave us a glimpse of your beauty and holiness, For Egypt that made us desire a Land of Promise, For Gethsemane that revealed to us a sympathetic High Priest Whatever the life situation with any one of us today, Teach us the spirit of thanksgiving and gratitude and joy. For all that we have and hope for, we praise you For all that compels us to seek you, we praise you even more. In the Blessed and Holy Name of Jesus we pray. Amen

Have you ever wondered why churches divide? Why can’t people get along? The Bible addresses the issue of church division in several passages. One significant verse is I Corinthians 1:10 which says, "be perfectly joined together in the same mind and the same judgment.". Paul also warns against causing divisions and fostering discord within the Christian community (Romans 16:17, Ephesians 4:1-6, Colossians 3:14). These verses, and many others, emphasize the importance of unity and the avoidance of division within the church, promoting harmony among believers, and effectively keeping unity in the bond of peace. Peter (I Peter 3:8) and James (James 4:2) echo the same sentiment. Church division can occur for various reasons, and the specific factors may vary from one situation to another. However, so that we might learn, here are some common reasons for church division: 1. Personal Opinions & Offenses: This is the number one reason! Personal conflicts, misunderstandings, or unresolved grievances among church members can contribute to division. Pettiness, pride and selfishness must be avoided to ensure everyone learns to our o the needs of others above ourselves. 2. Leadership Conflicts: Disputes among church leaders, such as ministers, elders, deacons, ministry leaders or other members, can result in division. This can be avoided by good communication, accountability and love. Rather than dividing, it would be more Christ-like to listen to each other. See point #1. 3. Worship Style Disputes: Differences in worship preferences, including song choices, tempo of the service, application of the sermons, can sometimes lead to division among church members. See point #1. 4. Doctrinal Differences: Disagreements over core theological beliefs, interpretations of scripture, and consistency of gospel preaching can lead to division within a church. Open Bibles & open hearts needed. See point #1. 5. Growth & Change: As a congregation grows, there can be challenges in managing that growth and adapting to changing needs. This can lead to disagreements about the direction of the church. See point #1. It's important to note that these reasons are not exhaustive, and often multiple factors can contribute to a division. We need to resolve conflicts and differences ASAP (John 17). Have a great week! You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok #Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry #didaskobibleinstitute

The apostle Paul says that the works of the flesh include "adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envying, murders, drunkenness, revelries" (Galatians 5:19-21). These 17 things are practiced by those who WILL NOT inherit the kingdom of God. They are also in opposition to fruit of Spirit which includes "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23). Let’s consider a few more of these works of the flesh… Murders = This is a spiritual attack against other people. It includes killing, torture, misery, torment, tribulation, trials, temptations, organized slaughter or to slay another person (Matthew 5:19-22, I John 3:12,15). Jesus says even thinking ill of someone can put you in danger of eternal judgment (Matthew 5:21-22, Ephesians 4:31, Colossians 3:8). It is an issue of the heart. Drunkenness = This is a spiritual attack against the flesh. This includes alcoholism, intoxication, inebriety, insobriety, intemperance, and is often combined with debauchery or being bewitched and drunk with desire (Luke 12:45-46, 21:34, Romans 13:13, I Corinthians 6:10, Ephesians 5:18, I Thessalonians 5:6-9). This is often listed among sins that evident in those who have no inheritance in the kingdom of God (Isaiah 5:11-22). The best way to avoid drunkenness is to never drink. Alcoholism is one of the most addicting, and easily remedied, sins in the list. It is impossible to become an alcoholic if you never drink alcohol. Revelries = This is another spiritual attack against the flesh. This includes wild partying, carousing, rioting, letting loose of inhibitions, drunken rampages, debauchery, orgies, excess merriment, buffoonery and flippantly romping (Luke 12:45-46, Romans 13:13, I Corinthians 6:10, I Thessalonians 4:5, I Peter 4:3). This is a sin that reveals the inability to practice self-control. Wild and reckless parties should not be desirable to a Christian. One of the greatest benefits to free will is the ability to make independent choices. Unfortunately, we also have the choice to make poor decisions. Our Christian freedom (liberty) is a two edged sword. This list exposes the difference between those who walk in the light and those who walk in darkness. It causes us to take spiritual inventory. Which list represents your life? The works of the flesh or the fruit of the Spirit? There is still time to repent of these works. Paul’s letter was intended to convict the sinners and bring real change among the Gentiles. The pagan way of life provides a divisive, sinful spirit. Those works need to cease. A Christian, who bears the fruit of the Spirit, will have good works that are clearly evident to both believers and non-believers. Notice that Paul's list seems to be only a partial list. The works of the flesh are many and varied. Christ is the only answer! We must place our faith in Christ, be covered by His blood, and bear the fruit of the Holy Spirit if we wish to avoid the condemnation that Paul describes. How is that possible? Get your life in sync with God’s will. May God bless you this week!!! You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok #Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry #didaskobibleinstitute

The apostle Paul says that the works of the flesh include "adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envying, murders, drunkenness, revelries" (Galatians 5:19-21). These 17 things are practiced by those who WILL NOT inherit the kingdom of God. They are also in opposition to fruit of Spirit which includes "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23). Let’s consider a few more of these works of the flesh… Idolatry = This spiritual attack is against our priorities. We understand idolatry as anything seeking to dethrone God, to put something ahead of God or find something to compete with God in your life (Matthew 6:33, Colossians 3:5, Revelation 21:8). The Ten Commandments set the precedent that there are “no other gods” before Yahweh. Anything that demands our highest priority must be dealt with decisively. Witchcraft = This spiritual attack is against our Creator. Antichrists practice sorcery using incantations, meditation, drugs and dark magic which by enticing words they hope to persuade the weak to believe an empty promise of peace (Jeremiah 6:14, Acts 19:19, I John 2:18, Revelation 9:21, 18:23, 21:8). Some forms of witchcraft use enticing or subtle words to hypnotize (I Corinthians 2:4, Galatians 3:1, Col0ssians 2:4). Sorcery and witchcraft seek to glorify the realm of the dead. Hatred = This spiritual attack is against culture. This is an inward disposition of hostility and lack of regard for another (I John 2:9-11, 3:15, 4:20). This specific sin disregards to providence of God, who is a God of love and compassion. It is the antithesis of the Gold Rule (Matthew 7:12). Hatred also leads to many other sins. Variance = This spiritual attack is against unity. This is includes division, discord and disharmony. Variance is not agreeing when you should or seeking to start a unnecessary quarrel (Romans 13:13, I Corinthians 1:10, 3:3). Emulation = This spiritual attack is against oneself. It is to copy another to equal or surpass it including jealousy, envy and malice (Ephesians 4:31, Philippians 2:3). We are called to be like Christ (Philippians 2:5, I Peter 2:21-25). We must imitate Christ (I Corinthians 11:1). Wrath = This spiritual attack is against our nature. This includes great anger, harshness, fierceness and violence (John 5:42, Romans 7:5, Galatians 5:24, 6:7-8, Ephesians 4:31, James 1:19-20, Revelation 2:23). Like hatred, this is the antithesis of the Gold Rule (Matthew 7:12). Next week we will consider some additional “works of the flesh.” We need to prepare for spiritual warfare. Keep studying and have a great week! You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok #Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry #didaskobibleinstitute

Galatians is such an interesting book. I especially love chapter five. Before we consider what it means to bear the fruit of "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23). However, prior to that text, in Galatians 5:19-21, he says, "adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envying, murders, drunkenness, revelries" are things that are practiced by those who WILL NOT inherit the kingdom of God. These works of the flesh could be divided into three biblical categories… “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (I John 2:16). Jesus warned in Matthew 7:20 that we will be known by our fruit. Solomon also reminded people that as we think in our heart, we will become those things (Proverbs 23:7). So, what do you think about? What kind of fruit do you want to bear in your life? Our daily living is an expression of our inner person. These evil works of the flesh, which are mentioned by Paul, are things that we need to avoid. What are they? What does the Bible say about them? How can we avoid them? Let's consider a few of them… Adultery = This spiritual attack is on the marriage covenant. This includes the lust of another’s spouse, indulging in illicit lust while married, participating in illicit sex or voyeurism (pornography), gratifying yourself with illicit sex (homosexual or heterosexual), which is evidence of one being unfaithful to God (Matthew 5:28,32, John 4:16-18, I Corinthians 6:16, II Peter 2:14). Dating back to the Ten Commandments we can learn that God hates this sin. Fornication = This spiritual attack is self-control. This includes the unmarried or married who indulge in unlawful lust, illicit sexual practices for payment, illicit sexual practices of either sex, and lust in the heart (John 4:16-18, Romans 1:21-32, I Corinthians 6:9-10, 16, 18, Jude 7). Like adultery, fornication violates the first commands spoken in the garden to promote covenant living. Uncleanness = This spiritual attack is against our purity. This is the opposite of pure thoughts, spoken words (dirty, physically or morally reprehensible) and includes filthy behavior (I Corinthians 6:15-18, Ephesians 4:19, 31, 5:5, Colossians 3:5, 8, James 1:21). Since the Old Covenant God has commanded cleanliness. Lasciviousness = This spiritual attack is due to lust and overindulgence. This includes promiscuous living, expressing lust, excess of sexual behavior, and unrestrained passion (Mark 7:21-23, Romans 1:22-29, 7:8, Ephesians 4:19, I Peter 4:3). This may be one of the most misunderstood terms among the works of the flesh. It seeks to pervert oneself and others for the purpose of abuse or self-fulfillment. Next week we will consider some additional “works of the flesh.” We need to prepare for spiritual warfare. Keep studying and have a great week! You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok #Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry #didaskobibleinstitute

Joel may be the earliest of the prophetic writings in the Bible. Joel 2:28-32 says, “I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; yea, and on my menservants and my maidservants in those days I will pour out my Spirit; and they shall prophesy.” In other words, Joel says that one feature of the coming of the kingdom (or the church, Matthew 16:16-19) will be the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on people of every kind—men and women, young and old, high and low, Jew and Gentile, rich and poor, etc. The concept of an “outpouring” or overwhelming of a storm, was a rather common occurrence to both Joel and the people to whom he spoke. If you open your Bible to Acts 2 we will see his prophesy come to fruition. In Acts 2:15–17 Peter says that the commotion caused by 120 people praising God (Acts 2:11) in many different languages is not owing to drunkenness but to the fulfillment of prophecy in Joel 22:28-32: "These men are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day; but this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 'And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh.'" Joel's prophecy, that Peter quotes in Acts 2:17–21, makes it clear that in the last days, or the last age (Isaiah 2:2-3, Jeremiah 31:31-33, Daniel 2:31-35, Amos 9:11-12, Micah 4:1-2), will include prophecy and the power of the Holy Spirit. The apostles were clothed with power and the main effect of this supernatural power seems to be bold, prophetic speech. They were so gripped by the Spirit of God that they saw the greatness of Jesus with extraordinary clarity. It caused them to speak with boldness and courage. This is described in greater detail in I Corinthians 12. However, I Corinthians 13 emphasized that love was actually a greater gift. Why? Because prophetic speech, along with the other miracles, were for a very specific purpose… to confirm the Word (Mark 16:20, Acts 8:6, Hebrews 2:3-4). They were temporary and would eventually cease (I Corinthians 13:8-10, James 1:25). The truth is that we no longer need the miraculous power of the Holy Spirit to confirm the word of God. Once God gave us His inspired Word He revealed all of the information necessary to follow Him. There is no need for miracles to confirm the oral Word when we have the New Testament. We also know that the apostles are not living today and those on whom the apostles had laid their hands are also dead (Acts 2-8). Once the last apostle (John) died, the ability to perform miracles could not be passed on to others. Now we have the Bible which provides us the entirety of God’s will (II Timothy 3:16-17, II Peter 1:19-21). This prophesy has been fulfilled! Now that we know we are in the last days… we need to prepare for the second coming of Jesus. Have a great week. You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok#Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry #didaskobibleinstitute

The Holy Spirit, an integral aspect of the Christian faith. He holds a central role in both the Old and New Testaments. Often referred to as the third person of the Holy Trinity, the Holy Spirit embodies the very center of God's presence and guidance throughout human history. As previously noted, His heart is emphasized several times in Scripture. In the last article we noted that the Holy Spirit can show emotion. In this article we will note how the heart of the Holy Spirit involves action. In the Old Testament, we encounter numerous references to the Holy Spirit's work. In Genesis 1:2, the Spirit of God hovers over the waters, participating in the creation of the world. The Holy Spirit also empowers individuals like Joseph, Daniel, and the judges of Israel to fulfill their divine purposes. In Ezekiel 36:26-27, God promises to give His people a new heart and put His Spirit within them, signifying the transformative and sanctifying role of the Spirit. Transitioning into the New Testament, the presence of the Holy Spirit takes on a more personal and redemptive dimension. Jesus promised His disciples the gift of the Holy Spirit, who would guide, comfort, and empower them in their mission (John 14:15-17, Acts 1:8). True to this promise, on the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples, leading them to proclaim the Gospel boldly, resulting in thousands being baptized into Christ (Acts 2:1-4, 37-47). Throughout the New Testament, we see the Holy Spirit's role in the life of believers. Romans 8:26 reveals that the Spirit intercedes for us in prayer when we are weak and uncertain. Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruit of the Spirit that will guide believers to a life of moral integrity. How are these things accomplished? Through the action of the Holy Spirit! The heart of the Holy Spirit is one of compassion, truth, and unity. In Ephesians 4:3, Paul urges believers to maintain unity through the bond of peace, a unity empowered and sustained by the Holy Spirit. Don’t forget that the Spirit convicts the world of sin and points to the truth found in Christ (John 16:8-13). The Holy Spirit's presence, once dwelling among the Israelites in the tabernacle and temple, now dwells in the hearts of believers. This seal serves as a constant reminder of God's everlasting love and involvement in affairs of humanity. He bridged the gap between the old and new, write both the Old and New Testaments, reminds us of the continuity of God's plan of redemption, and is a part of the process of salvation to all who are born again. As we embrace the heart of the Holy Spirit, we experience a transformative relationship with God, leading us to live a life that reflects His love and purpose. How are you responding the Spirit of God? Let God’s Spirit have control of your life and give all glory to the Lord. Have a great week! You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok#Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry

The Godhead, or the Trinity, is described as God in three Persons. Some teach that the Holy Spirit is NOT God. However, the Bible reveals that He is called God (Acts 5:3-44, II Corinthians 3:17), and is compared to the Father and the Son in equality. Though described as equal, He does have His own unique personality. The Holy Spirit of God is a Person, just as much as the Father and Son are Persons. He experiences all of the elements involved within a personality. Below we will share a few examples with biblical reference. First, He is male (John 16:13). Several years ago the book “The Shack” (a fictional work) used female descriptors in reference to the Holy Spirit. This is nothing new. An argument is frequently used that since the grammatical term used to reference the gender of the Holy Spirit is a feminine Hebrew word, then the Holy Spirit must be a feminine form of God. The LDS church and some religious people also site Solomon’s female references to Wisdom, the works of Theophilus (180 AD), Irenaeus (202 AD), and other “church fathers” leading up to the present Pope of the Catholic church. This is a false teaching. The word in Greek (New Testament and the Septuagint version of the Old Testament) actually use a neutral term or a masculine term. Regardless of the wording in LDS Bibles, or the Catholic Catechism, even the Latin used masculine terms when referencing the Holy Spirit. Jesus called the Holy Spirit “He,” “Him,” or “Himself” 20 times in John 14-16. We also find how He is referred to in the male gender in Acts 13:2, 1 Corinthians 12:11, II Thessalonians 2:7, Hebrews 10:15, and other texts. Second, the Holy Spirit has both a mind (Romans 8:27) and a will (1 Corinthians 12:11). He is individually seen working but it is clearly in conjunction with Father and the Son. This adds gravity when He forbids things (Acts 16:6-7) and permits other things (Acts 16:10). He also speaks for Himself (Acts 8:29, 10:19, 13:2, Revelation 2:7, 3:6, 13, 22, 11:17, 29) and works with our own spirit in prayer (Romans 8:26). Finally, it is evident that the Holy Spirit is full of emotion. Previously we noted that He loves (Romans 15:30) and He grieves (Ephesians 4:30). He can lead our spirit (Romans 8:14, Galatians 5:18) and regenerate us (John 3:5-8, Titus 3:5). Paul teaches us that it is the Holy Spirit that dispenses the Father’s love into our hearts (Romans 5:5). In previous blogs we noted specific personality traits of the Holy Spirit, but next week we will note specific examples about His heart. Have a great week. You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok#Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry

When people talk about the Godhead, or the Trinity, they might note how it represents God in three Persons. 1 John 5:7 reveals that “For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one.” Remember that John uses the descriptor “Word” repeatedly in reference to Jesus in John 1. This is evident throughout his letters. Jesus also says in Matthew 28:18-20 also says “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.” Notice the word “name” (singular), not “names” (plural). They three are one. Confusing? It shouldn’t be. God can manifest Himself in different places at the same time and in multiple forms. After all, He is God! There are three key passages to understanding this truth. 1) The Baptism of Jesus: Matthew 3:16-17 says, “And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, the heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon Him: And a voice from heaven, saying, ‘This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’” All 3 present. 2) The Temptation of Jesus: Matthew 4:1 says, “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” 3) The Work of the Church. II Corinthians 13:14 says, “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen.” I Peter 1:2 says, “To the pilgrims of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ.” Notice the equality shared by the Holy Spirit with the Father and the Son. The Bible confirms that the Personhood of the Holy Spirit is omnipresent. He is all present or present everywhere at once (Psalm 139:7, John 14:16). The Personhood of the Holy Spirit is omniscient (John 14:261 Corinthians 2:10-11), which means that He is all-knowing. The Personhood of the Holy Spirit is omnipotent (Genesis 1:2, Job 26:13, 33:4, Psalm 104:30). He is all powerful with unlimited power. The Personhood of the Holy Spirit is also eternal. Hebrews 9:13-14 says, “For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” These thoughts, and corresponding Scriptures, reveal that the Holy Spirit has “personality.” In upcoming articles we will discuss more about this “personality” and specific examples about His heart. Have a great week. You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #RayReynolds #summerdale #churchofchrist #churchtiktok #christiantiktok #bibletiktok#Christian #YouTube #church #spiritual #peachtreepress #inspiration #encourage #positive #thoughts #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghope #reclaiminghopeministry #faith #hope #Love #Bible #BibleStudy #BibleVerses #religion #Jesus #Christ #God #HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #counseling #ministry