Tongues

The phenomena of "tongues" is addressed in the seventh installment of the series on the Holy Spirit. The Book of Acts and Paul's first letter to the Corinthians serve as the primary sources for the development of a biblical doctrine on the subject. After considering Luke's historical accounts of believers' initial infillings with the Holy Spirit and the corresponding phenomena of tongues, attention is then turned to the purpose, nature, function, and benefits of this activity as indicated by the apostle Paul. Some pastoral advice and exhortation is provided as a conclusion. In addition to the audio teaching, the teaching notes also include a section which seeks to harmonize the historical data recorded in Acts with Paul's teaching in Corinthians.

Audio and notes can be accessed here, or by clicking the Holy Spirit link in the upper right hand column of this webpage.

The Holy Spirit & Righteousness

This is the sixth installment in a series on the Holy Spirit. In this lesson the nature of the relationship of the Holy Spirit to righteousness is explored by a consideration of Paul's letter to the Galatians. In it Paul emphatically underscores two main points germane to the topic. First, Paul points out that the primary purpose of the gift of righteousness is the reception of the promise of the Holy Spirit, and that all of this takes place not on the basis of human effort, but by believing in the gospel of Jesus Christ. (The contrast between these two means of seeking righteousness is briefly explored as part of the lesson.) Second, Paul explains the Holy Spirit's necessary and essential role in enabling the believer to put to death the sinful desires of our fallen nature, and to instead live lives that reflect the nature of God manifested in godly human behavior and relationships.

Audio and notes are available here, or via the "Holy Spirit" link provided in the upper right hand column of this page.