The Truth About The Holy Spirit (Part Four)

Let’s examine the nature of being filled. What does it mean to be Spirit-filled? It’s an ongoing yielding and submission to His guidance. It's the pervasive influence and control of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life. Paul teaches us, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). Please note that although there’s a sharp contrast  in this verse between drunkenness and Spirit-filling, there’s also a comparison between them. The comparison is found in the matter of control! A person who’s drunk is controlled by the alcohol he’s consumed. Because of this, he thinks and behaves in ways that Paul calls “reckless indiscretion.” This means acting with a severe lack of judgment, care, or thought, often resulting in foolish, risky, or embarrassing behavior without considering the serious consequences! Likewise, the person who’s “filled with the Spirit” is controlled, and he too behaves in ways that are unnatural to him. This does not imply erratic or abnormal behavior in a negative sense, but rather a profound shift in one's motivations and actions, enabled by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Be encouraged!

Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible teacher & expositor