The Holy Spirit Convicts and Sanctifies

Hidden Power: 8 Functions of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is alive and active. This month we’re looking at eight distinct functions of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

The Holy Spirit convicts us.

“And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment.” (John 16:8; NLT)

Without the Holy Spirit, we are blind to our sin. He shows us our need for salvation and leads us to repentance. He is firm but gentle.

However, sometimes as leaders, we take it upon ourselves to convict others and lead them to repentance. We impose years of our convictions upon them in a moment. Our heart is good, but we must let the Holy Spirit do His work.

The conviction of the Holy Spirit leads to reconciliation and new life, but when we try to do His job, it leads to hurt and broken relationships.

The Holy Spirit Sanctifies us.

“But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” (1 Corinthians 6:11; NIV)

Conviction without sanctification is depressing. It leaves you broken — fully aware of your sin — but without hope. Maybe you or someone you lead has felt that before, but that’s not the Gospel. The Gospel is a message of life.

The moment we place our faith in Jesus, we are justified (declared righteous). The work of salvation is finished, but clearly, we are still sinners. We need the Holy Spirit to sanctify us. We need Him to renew our hearts and minds — to help us die to our old lives and to live for God. That’s a daily, lifelong journey.

As we lead others, let us assist the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit without imposing a bunch of rules. Unless the change comes from the heart, it will not last, and only the Holy Spirit can change the heart.