The ultimate purpose of the Holy Spirit’s abiding presence is to reveal Himself as our true Father so we may walk with Him as His sons and daughters.
Historical Progression of the Church
In the early church, believers were still spiritually immature. Jesus’ departure was necessary so the Holy Spirit could come, and walking with Him in the Spirit is greater than physically walking with Jesus. Over the centuries, theological disputes, creeds, and denominationalism often displaced the Spirit’s leadership. The Pentecostal movement reintroduced the Holy Spirit, but many stopped at tongues and gifts, missing His ultimate goal: revealing Himself as Father.
Abiding Presence vs. Function
The Spirit’s presence means He is in you. Function means His presence is active and influencing your life. A microphone may be connected (present) but is only useful when switched on (functional).
Fullness of the Spirit = Influence
Being “filled” with the Spirit is not about getting more of Him—He is a Person, fully present at new birth. Fullness refers to the degree of His influence, much like adjusting a dimmer switch. The goal is to live under His ongoing influence.
Stages of Relationship with the Spirit
1. Born Again: Receive the Spirit (abiding presence).
2. Filled with the Spirit: Awakened to His person and presence.
3. Fellowship: Continuous response to His communion.
4. Walking with the Spirit: Naturally expressing His life.
Fellowship: Developing His Presence
Fellowship is our intentional response to the Spirit’s continual communion with us. He is always communing; fellowship begins when we respond. We do not call Him to come—He is already present.
Quenching and Grieving the Spirit
Quenching means suppressing His active work; grieving means saddening Him through disobedience. The Spirit is already active—our role is to align and respond.
The Joy of Fellowship
This is a deep, sweet spiritual pleasure that makes you want to linger in fellowship and return often. Signs include: time passes quickly, you don’t want to stop, and you look for opportunities to return. Without this joy, fellowship feels long and dutiful.
In His presence is fullness of joy; at His right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11).
Means of Fellowship
The form and content of fellowship vary with spiritual maturity and evolve as you grow. Mature fellowship becomes a steady, natural flow of divine life.
These are channels, not fellowship itself: worship in words, worship in songs, speaking in tongues, conversational prayer, Bible reading/study, and silent meditation.
How Maturity Shapes Fellowship
Key Takeaways
The Holy Spirit is God and our Father. His presence abides in us and must be developed into active influence through fellowship. The joy of fellowship is both the sign and reward of true communion, and as we mature, it becomes our natural lifestyle.
Source: Refreshing Times with the Beautiful Bindan | 11th October 2020 Edition.
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