What is a Spirit-Filled Church?
What do we mean when we speak about a Spirit-filled church?
The immediate tendency is to associate it with physical manifestations of the Holy Spirit’s presence. But is it all about experiencing such manifestations? To some degree, yes. However, there is a danger of being caught up in emotionalism, which some churches tend to emphasize. For some, attending church is primarily about the experience they have during a service. If that is the sole focus, then we have missed the point.
In certain Christian circles, the measure of a Spirit-filled church is often determined by ‘speaking in tongues’ and people falling down when prayed for. Some churches place an emphasis—perhaps too much—on these two aspects. If these elements are absent, some may feel that the Holy Spirit is not present.
The early Church, as described in the book of Acts, was Spirit-filled. One of the main themes of Acts is the Holy Spirit’s role in the Church’s growth and the rapid spread of the Gospel. At the beginning of Acts, we read:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, ESV)
In Acts 2, we see the fulfilment of this promise when the Holy Spirit was poured out at Pentecost. This event, marking the birth of the Christian Church, was also a fulfilment of the prophecy spoken through the prophet Joel.
Acts 4 and Acts 9 provide further insight into the nature of the early Church. In Acts 4:23-31, after Peter and John’s arrest for preaching the Gospel, the believers pray for boldness. The result:
“And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.” (Acts 4:31, ESV)
In Acts 9:31, we read:
“So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.”
The early Church should serve as a model for churches today. Without the empowering work of the Holy Spirit, the Church cannot fulfil its role as an effective witness for Christ.
Spirit-Filled People
What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit? Here are some key aspects:
1. Christ-like Character (The Fruit of the Spirit)
One of the Holy Spirit’s primary works in a believer’s life is shaping them into Christ’s likeness. Paul contrasts the sinful nature with the Spirit-led life:
“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh… But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:16, 22-23, ESV)
2. The Power to Overcome Sin
Another sign of the Holy Spirit’s presence is victory over sin:
“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16, ESV)
“He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to His own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.” (Titus 3:5, ESV)
The Holy Spirit continually renews our hearts and minds as Christians.
3. Empowered for Mission
The Holy Spirit equips believers to fulfil Jesus’ Great Commission. The mission to make disciples continues until Christ returns.
4. Love for One Another
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to love one another because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through Him.
5. Spiritual Gifts for Ministry
The gifts of the Holy Spirit are not meant for personal gain but for building up the Church. Paul writes about this in several of his letters.
“In His grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well.” (Romans 12:6, NLT)
“To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:7, ESV)
“Since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.” (1 Corinthians 14:12, ESV)
“To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:12, ESV)
From these passages the purpose of spiritual gifts are highlighted as follows:
- Doing certain things well
- Used for the common good
- To excel in building up the church
- The work of ministry
- Equipping of the saints
6. The Holy Spirit as Counsellor
Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as our Helper:
“And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, to be with you forever.” (John 14:16, ESV)
The Holy Spirit is the Person who leads us into the truth of Jesus. He leads us and guides us in our daily choices. Therefore, He plays a prominent role in the life of a Christian.
7. Inner Strength
“That according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being.” (Ephesians 3:16, ESV)
Characteristics of a Spirit-Filled Church
1. A Church That Prays
Philip Hughes notes:
“Prayer is stressed over and over again in the New Testament as a vital pre-requisite for the release and experience of God’s power.”
Terry Virgo warns:
“Without prayer, local churches are telling God, ‘It’s okay, we can handle things, thank you.’” (Virgo, 2011:106)
A Spirit-filled church prioritizes prayer. It is the Holy Spirit who enables effective prayer.
2. A Missional Church
A church that neglects mission is a dying church. Two threats to the Church today are complacency and comfort. To avoid these dangers, a church needs to also have a missional mind set. Jesus’ command to make disciples remains active. A Spirit-filled church is empowered for mission. It has the desire to boldly proclaim the gospel.
3. A Church Filled with Love
People long for relationships and community. Every local church should reflect Christ’s love to the world.
“Become a giver of love in your church. Help it become a place of love and peace—the loving family that people are longing to find.” (Virgo, 2011:144)
Conclusion
When discussing a Spirit-filled church, we must base our understanding on the New Testament, not human interpretations. A Spirit-filled church aligns with biblical principles and reflects the work of the Holy Spirit in transforming lives.
References
All biblical references are taken from the ESV and NLT Bibles.
Virgo, T. (2011). The Spirit-Filled Church: Finding Your Place in God’s Purpose. Monarch Books, Oxford, England.
