My Journey to Life, Step 11—God, the Holy Spirit

3. What is the function of the Holy Spirit within the Godhead?

From eternity, God, the Holy Spirit lived within the Godhead as the third member, equally self-existent as the Father and Son. The Spirit’s function focuses on representing Christ. His activity centers on Christ’s mission to redeem us. The Holy Spirit was actively involved in Christ’s birth (Luke 1:35), confirmed His public ministry at His baptism (Matthew 3:16, 17) and brought the benefits of Christ’s atoning sacrifice and resurrection to all of us (Romans 8:11). JTL11 2.9

In human terms, we could say that in the Godhead, the Spirit fulfills the role of executor. For example, when the Father gave Jesus to the world (John 3:16), He was conceived of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:18-20). Only an omnipresent, personal God, not an impersonal influence, energy or created being could perform the miracle of bringing the divine Christ to Mary. The Holy Spirit came to initiate the incarnational plan of salvation conceived from eternity (Ephesians 3:11). JTL11 3.1

It was through the Spirit that Jesus became universally present and active in all willing recipients at Pentecost. God originated Scripture through the agency of the Holy Spirit so we can understand and love the covenant-keeping Father who longs to save us for eternity. The Spirit is continually speaking to our hearts, striving to draw us into a close relationship with Jesus. JTL11 3.2

The Holy Spirit leads sinners to salvation in Christ. Those who are in Christ will produce the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22, 23) in their lives. The special work of the Holy Spirit within the community of believers is shown by spiritual gifts which equip them for witnessing (1 Corinthians 12:1-11; Ephesians 4:11-14). JTL11 3.3