How can a true work of the Holy Spirit be distinguished from that which is false?
From a careful study of 1 John 4, the great theologian and pastor Jonathan Edwards was able to identify five distinguishing characteristics of the Holy Spirit’s work. In short, a true work of the Holy Spirit: (1) Exalts the true Christ, (2) Opposes Satan’s interests, (3) Points people to the Scriptures, (4) Elevates truth, and (5) Results in love for God and others.
- Jn 14:26; 15:26; Acts 2:1-4; I Cor 3: 16-17; 2:15-16(6-16); Ephs 1:3-6,7-14*; II Thess 2:13-15; I Jn 2:20,27
- Ps 19:7-11; 119:104(97-105); Is 33:14- 16; Roms 6:12-14; 16:17-18; I Ptr 5:6- 7,8,9-10; I Cor 15:33; II Cor 6:14-17.
- Ephs 1:3-6,7-14*; II Thess 2:13-15; I Cor 3: 16-17; 2:15-16; I Jn 2:20,27; II Tim 2:15; II Ptr 1:19-21; Col 2:9-10(9- 15); 1:22-23.
- Ephs 1:3-6,7-14*; II Thess 2:13-15; Pro 3:1-6; Ps 19:7-11; 119(all); Is 55:8, 9-11; 40: 5-8; 42:5-8; 66:1-2; II Tim 3:16-17; II Ptr 1:19-21; Jn 17: 17.
- Ephs 1:3-6,7-14*; II Thess 2:13-15; Mt 22: 37-40; 6:33-34; 5:3-12,43-45 (Pro 19:11); Roms 12:14,21(1-21); 13:1-10; 14:1; 15:1; I Cor 13:4-8a; Ephs 5:25 (5: 19-6:4); Phil 2:3-4; Col 3:12-15; I Jn 4:7-19.