If you are using this book as part of the Messenger Series on the Holy Spirit, please refer to video session 3.

1 | Jesus said the Pharisees had allowed the traditions of men to trump the authority of God’s Word. What are traditions of men, and why are they damaging to our communion with our Creator? Give at least one modern-day example of the traditions of men trumping the truth of God’s Word.

2 | The Holy Spirit yearns to be our best friend and is jealous for our intimate fellowship. What things in the world would you say have stolen the attention and affection of the Church (believers) away from the Spirit? What will happen if we flirt with the world, seeking its pleasures, possessions, and status more than communion with the Spirit?

3 | What is Jesus communicating to the apostle Thomas in John 20:29? How is this truth connected with God’s words through the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:16, and how does this truth make our intimate relationship with the Lord better?

4 | Name and describe the three levels of relationships that we can have with others. Which is the deepest level and why? How can we get connected with people on this level?

5 | We have been given a tremendous gift in the Holy Spirit: the ability to know God intimately. Carefully read 1 Corinthians 2:11-16. What is the Holy Spirit speaking in this passage about truly knowing God?

6 | Peter and the other disciples had an experience like no other—they interacted with Jesus face to face. Paul did not share this experience, yet he was still mightily used by God. How was this possible?

For more: Look up John 20:29; 2 Corinthians 5:16 and 2 Peter 3:15-16.

7 | What will happen to our relationships with God if we neglect to pursue communion with the Holy Spirit? If you are willing, share with your group some practical ways you have been able to connect with the Holy Spirit and experience His amazing friendship.

Chapter 3 - Chapter Summary

CHAPTER SUMMARY:

• If we want a deep, intimate relationship with God, we have to know Him by His Spirit.

• Only the Spirit knows and reveals the thoughts, feelings, and purposes of God’s heart.

• We have been given God’s Spirit; He is the ultimate Teacher who guides us into all truth.

• To maintain friendship with the world—the selfish pursuit of status and pleasures—is to be God’s enemy.

• The Holy Spirit is a gentleman; He will not force His will or friendship on us.

• The three levels of relationship are: physical (lowest and most superficial), soul (or personality), and spiritual (deepest and most intimate).

• Knowing God by His Spirit is deeper and more intimate than knowing Him only through interaction with the physical Person of Jesus.

Chapter 4 - Empowered by the Holy Spirit

Empowered by the Spirit

Day 1