Many Bible students consider the subject of the Holy Spirit to be a difficult one indeed. Nevertheless, there are two reasons why a Holy Spirit study is needed by those who seek to be God's children. First, the Bible makes many references to the Holy Spirit. Since the scriptures discuss Him in such detail, we need to understand His role. Second, there is a great deal of misunderstanding concerning the Holy Spirit. How many, even in the Lord's church, really understand the Holy Spirit? True Holy Spirit knowledge cannot be obtained through logical deduction, books written by men, philosophy, or even science. To understand the Holy Spirit, one must examine what the Scriptures reveal about Him. The Bible is the book that identifies Him and tells us about His work, mission, purpose, and place in God's divine plan.

Much confusion abounds concerning His person and work. Sadly, even some of our own brethren are guilty of teaching error on the subject. Remember a simple Bible rule of truth -- whenever there is conflict or confusion surrounding a Bible subject, one must always reconcile that conflict by consulting God's word. The sacred text contains no contradictions. This may be a difficult study, but it is made more so by man's false teaching concerning the third Person in the Godhead.

The September, October, and November issues of the Knollwood Messenger are being dedicated to a special study of the Holy Spirit. What part does He play in God's plan of salvation? Is He a real person? What is His relationship with the Godhead? Can we know anything about His character, work, and mission? What part does He play in our prayers? Does He participate in man's conversion? Do men today undergo Holy Spirit baptism? What part does He play in miracles? Is there such a thing as the indwelling of the Holy Spirit? How is one "led by the Spirit"? What part did He play in the revelation of God's mind? How are we "seal" with the Holy Spirit? How does the Holy Spirit bear witness with our spirit? We will also examine His relationship with Christ and the apostles. We will endeavor to touch on all of these subjects, and on others.

Brethren, do not be afraid of the Holy Spirit. Do not be confused by the error being taught in the world of religion today. As with all Bible subjects, we go to the Book for a proper understanding. Please read the passages offered. Keep the information in context. Will there be some things about the Holy Spirit that we cannot know for certain? Yes! Let me hasten to add that nothing needed for our personal salvation is missing. We can know nothing about the Holy Spirit but what is revealed -- no more and no less. When men begin to make assumptions about the Holy Spirit -- there's no end. Paul told us "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15). As you enter, with us, into this special study, keep your minds and Bibles open.