The Work Of The Holy Spirit In The World
We have talked about the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer, and the Church. Today we want to touch on the work of the Holy Spirit in the world. The work of the Holy Spirit in the world is summarised clearly in John 16:9-11. The Holy Spirit has come with a three-fold ministry in relation to the world; to reprove the world:
- Of Sin: because they believe not on Christ. The damnable sin is that of unbelief. Unbelief is the root sin of all others. This area of reproof or conviction especially deals with the sin of man. The world’s independence of God is the cause of all the problems it faces.
- Of Righteousness: because Jesus Christ has gone to the Father and at present we do not see Him. This area of conviction involves the righteousness of Christ, as the Saviour of men. This is what many religions abhor. All that religion does is to put man in the centre stage where he believes in his abilities and his faithfulness. This is mere deception.
- Of Judgement: because the prince of this world, Satan, was judged at Calvary. This area of conviction involves the judgement of Satan and his cohorts and their defeat at Calvary.
The Work of the Holy Spirit in relation to the unconverted is to convince, convict and convert.
An example of this convicting work is seen in Paul’s ministry before Felix, when Felix trembled as Paul reasoned with him of “righteousness, temperance and judgement to come” (Acts 24:25).
As simple as these three-fold ministry may look, it is very essential for the world to come to know the only true God. The world cannot come to God without the intervention of the Holy Spirit.
