BELIEVER'S COMMON HERITAGE

The Indwelling Spirit: Our Common Heritage as Believers

As believers, we share a common heritage that surpasses earthly connections – we have God as our Father (1 John 3:1). This divine relationship is rooted in our salvation, where we received the Spirit of adoption (Ephesians 4:30, Galatians 4:5-7). This Spirit was prophesied by Ezekiel (Ezekiel 36:26-27) and is a gift we receive when we believe the gospel.

The Gift of the Indwelling Spirit

Notice that believers aren't meant to request the indwelling of the Spirit; it's already a part of our salvation package. We don't need to ask for something we already possess! Instead, we're called to acknowledge and surrender to the Spirit's presence within us.

The Reality of Christianity

The indwelling Spirit – the Spirit of God or Holy Spirit, also known as the Spirit of Christ – is the very essence of Christianity. It's the reality that sets us apart from the world and empowers us to live a life that honors God. A Christian life is a spiritual life, it is a supernatural life. 

The Role of the Indwelling Spirit

This Spirit:

- Guides us into truth (John 16:13)
- Fills us with love and fruit (Galatians 5:22-23)
- Equips us with gifts and talents (1 Corinthians 12:4-11)
- Transforms us into Christ's image (2 Corinthians 3:18)

Embracing Our Inheritance

As we embrace our common heritage as believers, let's:

- Recognize the Spirit's indwelling presence
- Surrender to His guidance and power
- Cultivate a deeper relationship with our Father
- Live out the reality of Christianity in our daily lives

Practical Applications

1. Acknowledge the Spirit's presence: Take time to reflect on the Spirit's indwelling presence in your life.
2. Surrender to the Spirit's guidance: Ask the Spirit to guide you in your decisions and actions.
3. Cultivate a deeper relationship with God: Spend quality time with God, reading His Word and praying.
4. Live out the reality of Christianity: Share your faith with others, and live a life that honors God.

Conclusion

May we cherish this gift and walk in the fullness of our inheritance as children of God!

Reflection Questions

1. How has the indwelling Spirit impacted your life?
2. What does it mean to you to have the Spirit of God living within you?
3. How can you surrender more to the Spirit's guidance and power in your life?

Additional Scriptures

- Romans 8:9-11
- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
- Ephesians 5:18
 

Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below!