Scared of the Ghost - The Convicting Power of the Holy Spirit | Pt.2 | Nick Birmingham

Church on the Rock - Nashville

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Church on the Rock-Nashville Sermon Podcast, Pastor Nick Birmingham continues the series titled "Scared of the Ghost," focusing on the often misunderstood and overlooked third person of the Trinity: the Holy Spirit, or as traditionally known in the King James Version, the Holy Ghost. Pastor Nick dives deep into John chapters 14 and 16, exploring the vital role the Holy Spirit plays in the life of a believer, specifically highlighting the convicting power of the Holy Spirit.

Key Points:

1. The Importance of the Holy Spirit:

   • Pastor Nick emphasizes the necessity of the Holy Spirit in our lives, not just in moments of spiritual awakening, but in every aspect of our daily walk with God.
   • He reflects on the tendency to "shelve" the Holy Spirit, ignoring His active role in guiding, comforting, and teaching us.

2. Conviction by the Holy Spirit:

   • The message centers on the concept of conviction, which Pastor Nick explains is often misunderstood and feared in today's society. He breaks down the Biblical understanding of conviction, showing how the Holy Spirit works to reveal sin, guide us to repentance, and lead us into righteousness.
   • Referencing John 16:7-11, Pastor Nick explains that the Holy Spirit convicts the world of three things: sin, righteousness, and judgment.

3. Conviction of Sin:

   • The first and most fundamental role of the Holy Spirit is to convict the world of sin, particularly the sin of unbelief.
   • Pastor Nick shares personal insights and Biblical examples (like Acts 2:37) to illustrate how the Holy Spirit convicts us, leading to genuine repentance and a desire for salvation.

4. Conviction of Righteousness:

   • He discusses the difference between worldly righteousness, which is often self-defined and based on good deeds, and true righteousness, which can only be found in Christ.
   • Pastor Nick stresses that our own righteousness is as "filthy rags" compared to the perfect righteousness of Christ, and the Holy Spirit's role is to correct our understanding and draw us closer to God's standard.

5. Conviction of Judgment:

   • The final point addresses the Holy Spirit's conviction regarding judgment, focusing on the already accomplished judgment of Satan and his defeat through Christ's work on the cross.
   • Pastor Nick clarifies that this conviction isn't about fearing God's judgment on us, but rather understanding that Satan's rule has been defeated, and we must choose to align ourselves with Christ.

6. Conviction vs. Condemnation:

   • Pastor Nick contrasts the Holy Spirit's conviction with the enemy's condemnation. While condemnation leads to guilt, shame, and separation from God, conviction by the Holy Spirit leads to grace, repentance, and restoration.

Application:

• Pastor Nick encourages listeners to allow the Holy Spirit to work in their lives, embracing conviction as a means to grow closer to God and align themselves with His will.
• He calls for a response to the Holy Spirit's prompting, whether it's in recognizing areas of unbelief, redefining righteousness according to God's standards, or understanding the victory over judgment that Christ has already secured.

Closing Thoughts:

• The episode concludes with a powerful reminder of the difference between living a "good life" and living a "surrendered life." Pastor Nick urges the congregation to pursue a life fully surrendered to Christ, led and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Special Note:

• This week, the congregation also celebrated the baptisms of two young individuals who have publicly declared their faith in Jesus Christ. Pastor Nick ties this celebration to the message, emphasizing that their decision is a result of the Holy Spirit's work in their lives.

Scripture References:

• John 14, John 16:7-11
• Psalms 51
• Acts 2:37-38
• John 6:44
• Romans 10:3
• Isaiah 64:6
• Matthew 12:30

Additional Resources:

• For more teachings and resources, visit Church on the Rock-Nashville's website.
• Connect with Pastor Nick Birmingham on social media for more insights and updates.

Tune in Next Week:

• Join us next week as Pastor Nick continues the series "Scared of the Ghost," diving into the topic of sanctification and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

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• Don't forget to subscribe to the Church on the Rock-Nashville Sermon Podcast for weekly sermons and spiritual encouragement. If this message blessed you, share it with a friend!