THE DISTINCTIVE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF A CHRISTIAN: BIBLICAL, DOGMATIC, AND ANTHROPOLOGICAL ASPECTS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37406/3041-1378/2025-5-9Keywords:
Holy Spirit; Trinity; pneumatology; Christian anthropology; sanctification; spiritual gifts; fruit of the Spirit; Pentecost; Church., life of Jesus Christ, apostlesAbstract
This article offers a comprehensive examination of the essence, nature, and work of the Holy Spirit in the life and ministry of a Christian. Employing biblical, historical-theological, and systematic analysis, it explores the Holy Spirit’s divine attributes, His role within the Trinity, His influence upon human nature, and His agency in sanctification. The study also outlines the biblical foundations of pneumatology in both the Old and New Testaments, with particular attention to the Holy Spirit’s activity in the life of Jesus Christ and the apostles and to the practical implications of His ministry for the Church. Drawing on classical and contemporary theological literature (Barth, 1932–1967; Moltmann, 1992; Grudem, 1994; Congar, 1979–1980; Kärkkäinen, 2002), the article argues that a deep theological and existential appropriation of the Holy Spirit’s personhood and ministry is indispensable for believers’ spiritual growth, ecclesial renewal, and faithful Christian service in the modern world.
References
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Kärkkäinen, V.-M. Pneumatology: The Holy Spirit in Ecumenical, International, and Contextual Perspective. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2002.
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Stăniloae, D. Teologia Dogmatică Ortodoxă. Vol. 3. București: Institutul Biblic şi de Misiune al Bisericii Ortodoxe Române, 1997 (sections on Duhul Sfânt).
