Tag: Holy Ghost

Today’s Daily Bible Verse: Without God, We are Lost

June 17, 2025

Romans chapter 8 verse 9: But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

VERSE CONTEXT

The Apostle Paul is the author of the Book of Romans, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to the believers in Rome, a diverse audience of Jewish and Gentile Christians living under Roman rule and dealing with both internal struggles and external persecution. Romans chapter 8 is one of the most powerful and theologically rich chapters in all of Scripture. It explores life in the Spirit versus life in the flesh, affirming that true Christian life is only possible by the indwelling of the Holy Ghost.

Paul is emphatically stating in Romans 8:9 that a person who claims to belong to Christ must have the Spirit of God dwelling within them. The Greek word used for dwell is “oikeō” (οἰκέω), meaning to live in, to inhabit permanently. This is not a passing influence or momentary feeling, this is full residence. If the Holy Spirit does not dwell within someone, Paul makes it crystal clear: that person is “none of his”, they do not belong to Christ.

This verse dismantles the false idea that moral people, religious people, or good people can live out the will of God apart from the Spirit. Man, by nature, is in the flesh, governed by sin, inclined toward pride, and unable to please God (see Romans 8:8: So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.). There is no exception, no bypassing this truth. The Holy Spirit is not optional for godliness, it is essential.

Commentator Charles Hodge (1797–1878, Presbyterian theologian) wrote, “To be without the Spirit is to be without Christ. And to be without Christ is to be without life.” That is the heart of this verse.

BROADER CONTEXT

Romans chapter 8 is the Spirit-filled crescendo of a multi-chapter argument Paul began back in chapter 5, where he contrasted Adam’s fall with Christ’s gift of righteousness. In chapters 6 and 7, Paul explained that believers are dead to sin and not under the law, but the struggle with the flesh remains. Romans 7 ends with Paul crying out, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” (Romans 7:24). Chapter 8 answers that cry: only through the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus can we walk in freedom and righteousness.

The chapter begins with the declaration: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus…” (Romans 8:1), and it unfolds into a description of what that Spirit-led life looks like. Verse 9 is the turning point in Paul’s argument where he stops addressing general human nature and starts directly speaking to the believer, encouraging them: “Ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit.” But only if the Spirit of God truly lives in them.

This is not just a doctrinal checkpoint, it is a dividing line between true and false faith, between works-based religion and Spirit-empowered righteousness. The entire chapter pivots on the truth that only the Holy Spirit gives us life, peace, adoption as sons, hope in suffering, and ultimately, glorification.

APPLICATION

APPRECIATING GOD’S GREATNESS

This verse reminds us of the absolute necessity of God’s own presence to accomplish His will. He does not leave us to be holy on our own. What God requires, God provides through His Spirit. He does not merely call us to obedience, He empowers us to obey. That is the greatness of our God: He saves us, fills us, transforms us, and sustains us by His own indwelling Spirit. Dr. Voddie Baucham once explained that if man could be obedient without the Holy Spirit the we would not have needed Jesus. Why would Jesus have to leave His throne in heaven, come down to this sinful world, live a sinless life, be hated by his own creation, be beaten and murder on the torturous cross, be buried, and then resurrect himself so that we could be forgiven for the sin we have to power not to commit in the first place? Jesus came because we do not have the power to be sinless without the Holy Spirit.

FOR THE BELIEVER

The believer must not attempt to live the Christian life in their own strength. Our flesh is incapable of producing righteousness. This is why Paul says in Galatians chapter 3 verse 3: “Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?”

We must recognize that victory over sin, transformation of the mind, and the power to live for God are all the results of the Holy Spirit at work within us. Any effort to serve or honor God apart from the Spirit will end in frustration, burnout, and failure.

Call to Action:
If you are a believer, examine your walk. Are you relying on your effort, personality, or willpower, or are you walking in the Spirit? Seek God daily in prayer, asking Him to fill you, guide you, and control every part of your life. Confess your need for His help. Surrender. And then walk in the Spirit, and you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh (Galatians 5:16).

FOR THE UNBELIEVER

If you are trying to live a good life without the Spirit of God, this verse makes it plain: you do not belong to Christ. You may be religious, moral, generous, or spiritual, but without the Spirit of Christ, you are still “in the flesh,” and that means you are still under condemnation.

But the invitation is open: repent of your sins and believe the gospel. Jesus Christ died for your sins, rose from the grave, and offers you new life, not by reforming your behavior, but by filling you with His Spirit. You cannot save yourself. But Christ can, if you turn to Him.

FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT

You were never meant to do this alone. The Christian life is not a self-help program. It is not about being a better person, it is about being a new creation. And that new life can only begin and grow through the indwelling Holy Spirit. Let this verse encourage you: God has not left you in the flesh. If you are His, you are filled with His Spirit. And if you’re not yet His—He’s calling you now.

PRAYER

Father, we confess that without Your Spirit, we are powerless. Our efforts to be righteous on our own always fall short. We thank You for sending the Holy Spirit to dwell within those who believe, to empower us, comfort us, and transform us. Forgive us for the times we rely on our flesh. Help us to yield fully to the Spirit each day and to live in a way that glorifies You. And for those who do not yet know You, may this truth pierce their hearts and draw them into saving faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

CLOSING

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved—so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.

TODAY’S DAILY BIBLE VERSE

April 22, 2025

Daily Verse:
John chapter 14 verse 26: But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

VERSE CONTEXT

The Gospel of John was written by the Apostle John, the beloved disciple, sometime between A.D. 85–95. John’s purpose was to present Jesus Christ as the eternal Son of God and the only way to eternal life. Chapter 14 falls within a deeply intimate and transitional moment known as the Upper Room Discourse (John chapters 13 through 17). This is Jesus’ final conversation with His disciples before His arrest, and it is rich in theological meaning, emotional urgency, and spiritual comfort.

In this passage, Jesus is preparing His disciples for His imminent departure—His betrayal, crucifixion, resurrection, and eventual ascension. This verse is nestled in the heart of a promise: though Jesus is physically leaving, He is not leaving them without help. He promises the sending of “the Comforter,” which is the Holy Ghost, or Holy Spirit.

The word Comforter is a translation of a powerful Greek term often rendered as Helper, Advocate, or Counselor—each of which expresses part of the Holy Spirit’s role. The English word “Comforter” comes from Latin roots: com (with) and fortis (strength). This captures the Spirit’s strengthening presence, not merely His ability to console.

Jesus says this Comforter will be sent “in my name,” which affirms the Spirit’s divine origin and mission. He does not act independently or contrary to Jesus’ nature, but in full unity with Christ and the Father. This reveals the tri-unity of God: the Father sends, the Son mediates, and the Spirit ministers.

Two key roles of the Holy Ghost are taught here:

  1. He shall teach you all things – This refers not to the introduction of brand-new revelation outside of what Christ taught, but to the deepening of understanding concerning Christ’s words and work. This is why the apostles were able to authoritatively write the New Testament. Their teaching did not come from their own memory alone but was guided and clarified by the Spirit.
  2. He shall bring all things to your remembrance – The Holy Spirit empowers spiritual memory. In context, this was especially critical for the apostles, as they would soon be entrusted with the message of the Gospel. The Spirit would bring to their minds the words of Jesus, not just in content but in meaning, allowing them to preach, teach, and write with divine accuracy.

Commentator Matthew Henry (1662–1714, Presbyterian) notes that this promise was “peculiarly adapted to the apostles,” yet by extension, believers today benefit from the same Spirit, who opens our eyes to understand Scripture and recalls God’s truth to us in moments of need. Likewise, John Gill (1697–1771, Baptist) emphasizes that the Spirit would be the divine instructor, preserving Jesus’ words from being lost, corrupted, or misunderstood—guarding the truth from generation to generation.

This verse also confirms the Holy Ghost as a person, not a force. Jesus uses the pronoun “he,” identifying the Spirit with personal agency, intelligence, and will. He teaches, speaks, and remembers—these are not qualities of a mere influence but of a divine Person.

In this single verse, Jesus gives both a promise and a preview of Pentecost. The Spirit would not just fall on believers in Acts chapter 2; He would dwell with them, teach them, and walk with them. The Holy Spirit is not only present at salvation, but in the believer for the entire journey.

BROADER CONTEXT

John chapter 14 is one of the most intimate and tender chapters in all of Scripture. It opens with Jesus saying, “Let not your heart be troubled,” addressing the confusion and sorrow that had overtaken His disciples as they began to understand that He would soon leave them. This chapter is part of what scholars call the Farewell Discourse, stretching from chapter 13 to 17. It contains some of Jesus’ final teachings before His arrest, providing instruction, encouragement, and theological clarity to prepare His followers for life after His ascension.

In the immediate context, John chapter 14 verses 16 through 31 contain repeated promises about the Holy Spirit. These are not casual references; they are part of Jesus’ deliberate effort to reveal how the third Person of the Trinity would continue His ministry in His physical absence. The disciples had come to rely heavily on Jesus—He was their teacher, their leader, their protector, and their constant companion. The idea of Him leaving created fear and despair. Jesus answers this by revealing a truth far greater than what they expected: He was not abandoning them—He was making it possible for His presence to dwell in all believers through the Spirit.

John chapter 14 verse 26 is the second of four direct promises of the Spirit in this chapter alone:

  • Verse 16: And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever.
  • Verse 17: Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive… but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
  • Verse 26: But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost… he shall teach you all things…
  • Verse 27 (immediate result): Peace I leave with you…

When Jesus calls the Spirit “another Comforter” in verse 16, the word another implies another of the same kind. That is, just as Jesus was a divine guide, teacher, and protector, so too would the Spirit be. The Spirit is not a downgrade. He is God just as Christ is God. Jesus was confined to one physical location in His earthly ministry. The Spirit, by contrast, would indwell all believers, making the ministry of Christ universal, ongoing, and internal.

This broader context also builds into the theological groundwork for what would soon happen in Acts chapter 2 at Pentecost. There, the Holy Ghost would descend, filling the apostles and believers with supernatural understanding and boldness. But here in John 14, Jesus reveals that this Spirit is not new—He is the Spirit of truth and the Holy Ghost, eternal and divine, now to be intimately involved in every believer’s life.

John chapter 14 also stands as part of the book’s larger structure. The Gospel of John is organized around signs and sayings that point to Jesus’ divine identity and mission. John is not a synoptic gospel like Matthew, Mark, or Luke; he selects his material more theologically than chronologically. His goal is stated in John chapter 20 verse 31: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

The Holy Spirit, then, is not a side subject but essential to this goal. Without the Spirit, the believer cannot understand truth (First Corinthians chapter 2 verse 14: But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him). Without the Spirit, the believer cannot bear fruit (Galatians chapter 5 verses 22–23). Without the Spirit, there is no conviction of sin, no spiritual rebirth, no power for witness, and no transformation.

Thus, John chapter 14 verse 26 serves as both comfort and commissioning. Jesus reassures the disciples—and us—that His teaching will not be lost, forgotten, or misunderstood. The Holy Ghost will teach and remind. This same Holy Spirit continues that ministry today, bringing the Word of God to life in the minds and hearts of believers. The doctrine of the Holy Spirit, introduced so clearly in this chapter, will shape the believer’s walk, witness, and worship from Pentecost until Christ returns.

APPLICATION

Appreciating God’s Greatness
John chapter 14 verse 26 shows us the greatness of God in His tender care and divine foresight. God does not leave His people confused or abandoned. The Son returns to the Father, but not without sending the Spirit—equal in power and glory—to continue His work within us. What kind of God sends Himself to dwell inside His people so they will never be alone again? Only the true and living God. He is not distant or detached. He is personally involved, constantly teaching, continually reminding, and always near. His greatness is seen not only in His power, but in His presence. Through the Holy Spirit, we see the wisdom of God—who not only gave us a Book but gave us a Teacher to help us understand it. The Spirit’s divine role glorifies both the Father and the Son by illuminating their truth to the heart of man.

For the Believer
This verse is a gift for those who believe. If you are in Christ, the Holy Spirit is not a visitor—He is a resident. He is not far off—He is within. He is not passive—He is active. But how often do we ignore Him? Many believers go through their lives unaware that the very presence of God is living inside of them, offering guidance, teaching, and recall of truth. The Holy Spirit will not shout over the noise of your daily distractions. But if you submit yourself in prayer, in humility, and in the Word of God, He will speak. He will bring things to your remembrance—not from your own wisdom, but from what Christ has spoken.

We must also recognize that this promise comes with a condition: whatsoever I have said unto you. The Spirit reminds us of Jesus’ words, not our opinions. This means that Christians must read, study, and memorize the Word. The more we store up God’s truth, the more the Spirit can call it to mind in moments of need, temptation, or opportunity. The Comforter cannot bring to remembrance what you have not first received. This gives urgency to daily Scripture reading. It’s not for knowledge alone—it’s to build a storehouse from which the Spirit can draw.

Call to Action
Start today by praying: “Holy Spirit, teach me.” Then open the Word of God. Ask the Spirit to help you understand, apply, and live out what you read. Trust that He will. Set aside time every day not just for prayer, but for listening. Ask the Spirit to remind you of Christ’s words throughout your day—especially when facing temptation, conflict, fear, or decisions. And when He brings something to mind, act on it. The Spirit is our Comforter, yes, but He is also our Convicter. Let Him convict. Let Him teach. Let Him lead.

For the Unbeliever
This verse speaks clearly of a spiritual reality that is not automatic. The Holy Spirit does not dwell in everyone—He is given to those who believe. Jesus made it plain in John chapter 3 verse 5: Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. If you do not yet believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior, then this promise does not yet apply to you. But it can. The Spirit is drawing you now—not with a loud voice, but with conviction, stirring your heart to repentance and faith. He opens the eyes of the blind. He awakens the dead soul to life. He reveals Jesus. If you feel the weight of your sin, if you see your need for salvation, that is the Spirit already at work in you. Don’t resist Him.

Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. He died for your sins, was buried, and rose again. Repent of your rebellion and turn to Him. When you do, the Holy Ghost will not only visit—you will become His dwelling place. And He will begin the lifelong work of teaching, reminding, and transforming you from the inside out.

FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT

John chapter 14 verse 26 is not just a promise for the apostles—it is a promise that echoes through time to every believer who loves Jesus and treasures His Word. The same Holy Spirit who taught Peter, John, and Paul is available to teach you. The Spirit of God is not silent, nor is He distant. He dwells within you, He speaks through the Scriptures, and He is constantly working to glorify Christ in your life. In moments of doubt, confusion, fear, or weakness, He will remind you of what Jesus said—if you will listen.

Let this truth settle deep in your soul: you are never alone. When you open the Word, the Author is present. When you face trials, the Comforter is with you. When you cannot remember what to pray or what is true, the Holy Ghost will bring it to your remembrance. God has not left you to figure this out by yourself. He has given you His Spirit—the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead.

So take heart. Keep seeking. Keep studying. Keep walking in the truth. And trust that the Spirit who began a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for not leaving us comfortless. Thank You for sending the Holy Ghost in the name of Jesus to teach us and to remind us of Your truth. Help us to quiet the noise of the world so we can hear His voice more clearly. Stir our hearts with a greater hunger for Your Word, that the Spirit may bring it to life within us. When we forget, remind us. When we are weak, strengthen us. When we wander, correct us. May we walk in step with the Spirit and glorify Christ in all we do. In the name of our risen Savior, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

CLOSING

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved—so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.