Pastor John,
Having a conversation with Beth last night, talking about how we generally can tell who authored an email within the first few words of the first sentence. It is the spirit of the person that we are perceiving. We are feeling the spirit of the writer and recognizing it – the words aren’t unique to one person.
That Spirit sanctifies people’s words and actions. It makes people acceptable to God.
Paul said he was judging by it, and the power of God. It is amazing.
Foolish words are sometimes found in the mouths of sanctified wise virgins, and wise words sometimes come from the foolish, but it is the Spirit that sanctifies. The words don’t mean a thing.
Jerry
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That’s true, Jerry. And it is a person’s spirit that influences others more than the words they say. “The kingdom of God is not in word,” Paul said, and we could add, “Neither is the kingdom of Satan.” Jesus said, “It is the Spirit [of God] that gives life,” But it is also true that an unclean spirit brings death.
Pastor John