The Works of the Holy Spirit for Our Salvation
Understanding Salvation Beyond a Simple Decision
Titus 3 delves into the transformative nature of salvation, emphasizing that it is not a one-time event but a continuous journey shaped by the work of the Holy Spirit. The passage in Titus 3:3 describes the life of a person before accepting Christ—marked by foolishness, disobedience, and sinful passions. However, salvation is not merely about acknowledging Christ; it involves an ongoing transformation. Ephesians 2:8-9 reinforces that salvation is a gift of grace, not a result of human effort. Titus 3:4-5 clarifies that God’s mercy initiates salvation, but the process requires the Holy Spirit’s continuous work in believers' lives.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in salvation. Titus 3:5 speaks of the “washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” Jesus, in John 3, tells Nicodemus that one must be “born again” of water and Spirit to enter the Kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 12:3 emphasizes that true faith in Christ is only possible through the Holy Spirit’s work. This regeneration is not just about an outward act like baptism but signifies an inward transformation where believers become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). Most importantly, spiritual transformation cannot be made on our own accord but only through complete reliance of the Holy Spirit.
The Continuous Renewal by the Holy Spirit
Salvation is not a static event but an ongoing transformation. When we are saved by God’s grace and mercy, then the Holy Spirit renews our hearts. There are two ways God renews our hearts.
Spiritual Gifts – 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 explains that the Holy Spirit equips believers with gifts to participate in God’s work. When we are saved, we become children or heirs of God. As a result, we inherit God’s kingdom and His ministry. God gives us the Holy Spirit to be our helper as we do God’s work here on earth. Just as Titus was entrusted with church leadership and financial responsibilities, believers today are called to steward their gifts faithfully.
Spiritual Fruit – Galatians 5:22-25 describes how the Holy Spirit shapes a believer's character. Just as children resemble their parents, Christians are meant to reflect God’s nature through love, patience, and righteousness.
Salvation as a Work of the Trinity
Salvation is also a collaboration between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Father initiates salvation, Jesus accomplishes it through His sacrifice, and the Holy Spirit sustains it by transforming believers. John 14:16-18 describes the Holy Spirit as the Helper sent by Jesus to ensure believers are not left as spiritual orphans. Just as orphans struggle without guidance, Christians who neglect the Holy Spirit’s role face difficulties in their faith journey. Thankfully, God does not leave us as orphans and has entrusted the Holy Spirit to be a guide to believers.
Living a Spirit-Filled Life
During Lent, let’s encourage intentional efforts to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 5:18-21 provides five practical ways to do this:
Abstaining from influences that distract from God. (“Do not get drunk with wine”)
Engaging in worship through songs and hymns.
Singing and making melodies to the Lord.
Giving thanks to God in all circumstances.
Submitting to one another in reverence to Christ.
By embracing these practices, Christians can cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, making the spiritual journey more fulfilling and joyful. It is important to rely on the Holy Spirit, not just for salvation but for daily renewal, trusting that God’s plan is intentional and good.
Reflection: This sermon reminded me of how powerless and useless I am alone as a Christ-follower. But it also reminded me of how blessed and beloved I am to have a God who not only sent His son to save me but also a helper to guide me. God understands me so deeply that He knows exactly what’s best for me. He knows what experiences I can take to grow closer to Him. The trinity is the ultimate support system and I can feel assured and trust in His plans for me. In practice, I can try to give thanks and glory to God in all circumstances. I can also be more mindful of the spiritual gifts God has given me and use them effectively to serve Him.
Discussion Questions:
What do you think is the role of the Holy Spirit? Have you ever experienced the Holy Spirit working in your life? Please share your experience.
What are some intentional efforts you can personally make to be filled with the Holy Spirit?
How would you describe your spiritual journey at this time? (Joyful, unhappy, trusting, doubtful, etc)
What are some takeaways from this sermon?
