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Study 04 of 10

Hindrances to the Spirit

The presence of cherishing sin is the true hindrance to the special outpouring of the Spirit.

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Prescott argues that the special outpouring of the Holy Spirit is currently hindered by the presence of cherishing sin among God's people. In His mercy, God does not pour out His Spirit in its fullness on those who are in a state of sin, because God is a 'consuming fire' to those who are out of harmony with Him. This is a crucial lesson: God's delay is not because He is unwilling, but because His presence would be destructive to those not prepared to receive Him in purity. We must be cleansed, similar to the experience of the people at Mount Sinai who could not approach God in their sinful condition, so that we can stand before Him and receive the blessing rather than destruction.

Key points

  • The practice of iniquity is what hinders the special outpouring of the Spirit.
  • It is the mercy of God that He does not pour out His Spirit while we are cherishing sin.
  • God is a consuming fire to those who are out of harmony with Him.
  • We must be prepared to stand in the presence of God before the Spirit can be fully poured out.

Key texts

  • Hebrews 12:29
  • Exodus 19:18
  • Exodus 24:17

From the book

Sermon 2 · The Holy Spirit · Read this chapter

  • “The presence of sin and the practice of iniquity is what hinders it.” (sermon 2)
  • “It is the special mercy of God that he does not directly answer these prayers to any one of us who are cherishing sins.” (sermon 2)
  • “Our God is a consuming fire.” (sermon 2)

Put it into practice

  • Ask God to reveal any secret sin that might be a hindrance in my life.
  • Praise God for His mercy in waiting for me to be purified.
  • Commit to preparing myself to stand in the presence of God.
  1. Comprehension

    1. What is the one thing that hinders the special outpouring of the Spirit?

  2. Doctrinal Clarity

    2. Why is God's delay to answer our prayers for the Spirit an act of mercy?

  3. Scripture

    3. How did the people respond to God's presence at Mount Sinai?

  4. Comprehension

    4. What is God described as in Hebrews 12:29?

  5. Doctrinal Clarity

    5. Why is it important to understand this character of God before asking for the Spirit?

  6. Contrast

    6. How can we be prepared to receive the Spirit safely?

  7. Doctrinal Clarity

    7. What is the lesson for us regarding the approach to the sanctuary?

  8. Application

    8. What is your personal prayer regarding this consuming fire today?