Holy Spirits

In Shincheonji Theology, holy spirits are a fundamental concept, representing spirits that belong to God and carry out His will. They are distinct from evil spirits, which do not belong to God.

Here’s a detailed explanation of holy spirits:

Nature and Origin

    ◦ In the beginning, there were only holy spirits, representing oneness with God. The spiritual world became divided into holy spirits and evil spirits after a high-ranking cherub angel formed evil in its heart.

    ◦ Holy spirits are created by God and are described as ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation. They do God’s bidding and obey His word.

    ◦ Every spirit that belongs to God is considered holy. This includes God Himself, Jesus, and angels.

    ◦ The terms “Holy Spirit” or “spirit of the divine being” are used to refer to God’s spirit.

Relationship with God and Jesus

    ◦ God is spirit, and His spirit is called the Holy Spirit or light. The Holy Spirit is God.

    ◦ The Spirit and the Word are one and the same. Wherever the Spirit of God is, the Word of God is also present, and vice versa. This is crucial for discerning God’s spirit.

    ◦ Jesus was conceived by the seed of the holy spirit, making him pure. The Holy Spirit descended and dwelled within Jesus. Jesus came in the Father’s name, meaning the Holy Spirit of the Father spoke through Him.

    ◦ Jesus works through His own spirit and through the spirits of heaven (including God’s Spirit and angels), all dwelling in one flesh, like a “walking kingdom of God”.

How Holy Spirits Work

    ◦ Spirits work through people, specifically through their words, thoughts, and actions. They can inspire people and have conversations with them.

    ◦ A holy spirit enters a person who accepts its word, watching over and protecting that person.

    ◦ The Holy Spirit reveals God’s will and purpose. It teaches and reminds of everything Jesus said, particularly the parables and mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.

    ◦ The Holy Spirit helps believers understand the deepest things of God.

Roles and Functions

    ◦ Spiritual Rebirth and Transformation: The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in regenerating sinners and giving new life, leading to believers being “born of the Spirit”. This process cleanses and purifies individuals with God’s word.

    ◦ Guidance and Teaching: Holy spirits guide believers into all truth and provide understanding. They teach how to live righteously, prepare for God’s kingdom, and understand prophecies and their fulfillment.

    ◦ Empowerment: The Holy Spirit gives power to witnesses to proclaim the gospel.

    ◦ Presence of God: The Holy Spirit dwells in the hearts of true believers, making them God’s temple.

    ◦ Testimony and Revelation: The Holy Spirit testifies to God’s covenant and promises. It is the “spirit of prophecy” that reveals the events of Revelation. The “spirit of truth” (an advocate) comes in Jesus’ name to teach everything. This spirit works through a chosen pastor, the “promised pastor”.

Figurative Representation

    ◦ Holy spirits are often referred to using various figurative terms in the Bible:

        ▪ Light: They enlighten darkened spirits with the word of prophecy.

        ▪ Lamps/Lampstands: Seven spirits are called seven lamps because they shed light. They are also associated with “workers” who shine light and prepare the way.

        ▪ Eyes: They are referred to as God’s “seven eyes” sent out to all the earth to supervise the administration of the word.

        ▪ Birds/Doves: Figuratively, a bird can represent a spirit, such as the Spirit of God descending like a dove on Jesus.

        ▪ Winds: Angels are likened to winds because they carry out God’s will and judgment. The four archangels are referred to as the “four winds of heaven”.

        ▪ Groom: The Holy Spirit is the bridegroom, while the human (missionary) is the bride.

Discernment of Spirits

    ◦ It is crucial to be able to discern between holy spirits and evil spirits.

    ◦ This discernment is primarily done by listening to their words and looking at their actions in light of the Bible, as words are spirit.

    ◦ A person with the Holy Spirit will speak the words of heaven, not the words of the earth, as God gives the Holy Spirit without limit and the Holy Spirit has mastered all things.

    ◦ Miracles are not a reliable way to discern the Holy Spirit, as Satan’s spirit can also perform signs and prophesy in Jesus’ name. The key is whether they can explain the prophecies and fulfillment of the New Testament.