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The Holy Spirit’s role in conversion and sanctification through Scripture is a foundational theological concept supported by numerous biblical passages. This doctrine teaches that the Spirit works primarily through God’s Word to bring about initial salvation and ongoing spiritual transformation. Regarding conversion, passages like Romans 10:17 emphasize that “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God,” while 1 Peter 1:23 speaks of being “born again… through the word of God.” James 1:18 further reinforces this by stating that God brings forth His people “by the word of truth.”

The sanctification process is similarly tied to Scripture, as evidenced in Jesus’ prayer: “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth” (John 17:17). The apostle Paul affirms this in 2 Timothy 3:16, declaring that “all Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” Even the Psalmist recognized this connection, asking, “How can a young person stay on the path of purity?” and answering, “By living according to your word” (Psalm 119:9).

This theological framework understands that the Holy Spirit, having first inspired the writing of Scripture, continues to use these inspired texts as His primary instrument for spiritual transformation. Through the Word, the Spirit convicts people of sin, reveals Christ, generates saving faith, guides believers in spiritual growth, transforms character, and renews the mind. This ongoing work of the Spirit through Scripture forms the foundation for initial conversion and progressive sanctification in the Christian life.

See the attached PowerPoint for reference.

In Acts 10, we read of Cornelius; He was described as “devout and God-fearing,” regularly gave to the poor, and maintained a consistent prayer life. His influence extended beyond his faith, as his entire household, including family members, servants, and enslaved people, followed his spiritual leadership in worshipping the God of Israel.

Cornelius’s story is compelling because, despite his exemplary religious devotion and moral character, he had not yet experienced salvation through Christ. This presents a crucial theological point: while commendable, good works and religious faith are not equivalent to salvation. His story bridges the early church’s understanding of God’s plan for Gentile inclusion in the covenant community. Despite his generous acts toward the Jewish people and his sincere prayers, Cornelius still needed the specific revelation of the gospel of Jesus Christ for salvation, highlighting the universal need for explicit faith in Christ regardless of one’s moral standing or religious dedication.

In Leviticus 27:30-33 – Moses’ law required Israelites to give a tithe (tenth) of their increase to support the Levites.

Hebrews 10:9,10 we can notice that the old law, however, is no longer binding since Jesus replaced it.

This means churches today have no right to require Christians to tithe.