Holy Spirit, Part 1 Q&A

Shawn emphasizes the expectations for righteous and holy living outlined by the Apostolic Record, focusing on guidelines such as honesty, anger management, kindness, and imitation of Christ’s love as described in the Epistle to the Ephesians. He highlights the relevance of these teachings for modern believers, urging them to apply these principles while examining their faith and actions critically.

Christians are urged to live righteously by avoiding associations with immoral behaviors, being wise, and understanding the will of the Lord, which includes giving thanks and being filled with the Spirit rather than succumbing to temptations like drunkenness. The teachings emphasize the importance of repentance and adherence to Christian values to ensure a place in the Kingdom of Heaven, as illustrated by Jesus’ direct messages to the seven churches in Asia to correct their ways and avoid judgment.

Shawn emphasizes the necessity for believers to live in holiness and righteousness, adhering closely to New Testament teachings, as preparation for Christ’s return to collect his pure and righteous church. He warns against teachers who emphasize grace to the exclusion of accountability and stresses the importance of repentance and authentic Christian living to ensure readiness for Christ’s second coming.

Shawn explains that the Holy Spirit plays a continual guiding role in a believer's life, not abandoning them despite any failures, encouraging them to avoid wrong choices and move towards what's best from an eternal perspective, unless they completely reject Him. The teachings also touch on the connection between Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and believers, emphasizing the journey from Adam and Israel's failures to the success found in Jesus and the ongoing faithful journey of believers united as one body in Christ.

Shawn teaches that the Holy Spirit resides within us, fundamentally transforming believers into new creations in Christ, allowing us to live out the good works God has planned for us. This transformation and indwelling are gifts of grace, contingent upon our faith and behavior as Christians, as the Holy Spirit will withdraw if one's actions deviate from a Christ-centered life.