Perhaps one of the most neglected doctrines in Reformed Theology is the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Much of this neglect stems from fears related to concerns about emotional excesses and the operation of certain spiritual gifts. But the work and ministry of the Holy Spirit is essential in all theology. Without a proper understanding of and dependence upon the Holy Spirit, our theologies would be little more than Pelagian moralism. If there is anything that Reformed teaching affirms, it is the emptiness of human efforts apart from the power and activity of God. This is why the doctrine of the Holy Spirit must be understood and taught today.
For this reason, this issue begins with a foundational article by A. W. Pink on the importance of this doctrine. Pink’s article reminds us of the danger of slipping back into a flesh/works orientation if we ignore the work of the Holy Spirit. Although the compilation is no longer in print, A. W. Pink’s The Holy Spirit contains a number of helpful articles that far surpass the scope of this publication.
We have also included a doctrinal study by John Calvin on “The Divinity of the Holy Spirit” and a practical study by Thomas Watson entitled “A Godly Man Has the Spirit of Christ in Him.” The article by Jonathan Edwards deals primarily with an exposition of 1 Corinthians 13:8 in which Edwards examines the work of the Spirit in eternity.
The issue is rounded out by articles by William Gurnal (“Praying in the Spirit”), Charles Spurgeon (“The Holy Spirit in the Covenant”), and A. W. Pink (“The Work of the Spirit”). Each provides insights to various aspects of the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
We hope this issue is helpful in providing some often neglected study on the Holy Spirit. However, we realize that the work of the Spirit is so pervasive and so important that many other aspects and areas could be studied also. We hope this issue will provide a springboard for additional studies on the Holy Spirit that each reader might consider. Most of all, we pray that the work of the Spirit might become the foundation of all that we do in life and ministry.
By His Grace, Jim & Debbie
Teaching Resources International 