03/29/2024
The Holy Spirit in the life of Jesus:
By: Joseph Adesida
But once it was time for the Son of God to come to earth, we see the Spirit work in a unique way. When Jesus was baptized by John, "The Holy Spirit descended upon Him in bodily form like a dove, and a voice from heaven said, 'You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased" (Luke 3:22). This was not the beginning of the Spirit's indwelling presence, but a visible anointing that signaled the start of our Savior's ministry. Although Jesus retained full deity, He chose to depend entirely upon the Spirit. That's why He said, "I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me" (John 8:28). What an example this must have been for the men who followed Him. Yet Jesus knew it was better that He live within His people rather than with them in physical form. As His ministry on earth drew to a close, He promised to send the One who would work through each believer. Shortly before Christ ascended to heaven, He gave His followers the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations (Matt.28:18-20). However, knowing that they were inadequate for the task, He told them to wait in Jerusalem for the power from heaven to come upon them (Luke 24:49). Shalom !
