<p>Bible Study</p><p>Don&#39;t just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: </p><p>.</p><p>Introduction</p><ul><li>Contrast between the hand-cranked H. L. Hunley and modern nuclear submarines</li><li>Christians were never meant to follow Jesus in their own strength</li><li>Jesus promises “another Paraclete” — another helper like himself</li><li>The Holy Spirit continues the presence, power, comfort, and guidance of Jesus</li><li>Main idea: discipleship is empowered by the Holy Spirit</li></ul><p>I. Relationship — The Spirit Connects Us to Jesus</p><ul><li>The Spirit “dwells with you and will be in you” (John 14:17)</li><li>The Holy Spirit is the breath of Christian discipleship</li><li>Jesus says, “I will not leave you as orphans” (John 14:18)</li><li>We experience the presence of Jesus through the Holy Spirit</li><li>Discipleship is a living relationship, not mere religion</li></ul><p>II. Revelation — The Spirit Teaches and Reminds</p><ul><li>The Spirit is the “Spirit of Truth”</li><li>The Holy Spirit:<ul><li>teaches</li><li>reminds</li><li>reveals</li></ul></li><li>Special role for the apostles:<ul><li>inspiration of the New Testament Scriptures</li></ul></li><li>Ongoing role for believers today:<ul><li>illumination of Scripture</li><li>conviction and guidance</li><li>discernment and prophetic encouragement</li></ul></li><li>All revelation must be tested by Scripture</li></ul><p>III. Response — The Spirit Empowers Obedience</p><ul><li>“If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15)</li><li>Obedience is difficult in human strength</li><li>Fulfillment of Book of Ezekiel 36:<ul><li>new heart</li><li>new spirit</li><li>empowered obedience</li></ul></li><li>The Spirit transforms disciples from the inside out</li><li>Christian obedience flows from Spirit-filled hearts</li></ul><p>Conclusion</p><ul><li>Are you following Jesus in your own strength?</li><li>Burnout often reveals self-powered discipleship</li><li>Christ offers:<ul><li>nourishment at the Lord’s Table</li><li>empowerment through the Holy Spirit</li></ul></li></ul><p>Discussion Questions</p><ol><li>How does the Holy Spirit cultivate a relationship between Jesus and his disciples? Give specific examples.</li><li>Explain the difference between how the Holy Spirit provided revelation for the Apostles vs. how he does so for disciples today?</li><li>Give an example of the Holy Spirit teaching, reminding, or revealing in your own life.</li><li>Do human effort, intentionality, and discipline still have a role in Spirit-empowered discipleship? How do we keep from falling into man-made religion or doing it in our own power?</li></ol><p>Questions?</p><p>Do you have a question about today’s sermon? Email Randy Forrester (</p><p>).</p><p><br></p>