In today’s study, Derek looks at the relationship between Jesus and the Holy Spirit, which is a key to the entire ministry of Jesus. Jesus did nothing until the Holy Spirit came upon Him and then waited for the Holy Spirit’s direction all things. This is a perfect example for how we are to live, taking on the nature of lamb to attract the dove, the Holy Spirit.

Derek emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is a person, the third person of the Godhead. He is just as much a person as God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son are. He was sent to be with us forever and we need to acknowledge His presence and Lordship over our lives.

In this new series Derek is concerned with our learning how to be led by the Holy Spirit so we may become mature sons of God. When we are born from above by Him, we enter as babes, children of God, destined to become sons. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to lead us in this venture, so we need to get to know Him.

Derek finishes this study by pointing out that all nations will have the gospel preached to them—and that includes the Jewish people. At some point the full number of the Gentiles will be brought into the kingdom and the hardening of the Jewish hearts will end. That will open wide the door of salvation to the Jews. Derek exhorts us to give hope and comfort to them, which will hasten the day of Jesus’ return.

Jesus said there would be signs taking place, which will lead up to the end times. Derek reveals how they are present even today. As we see these things happening, we are exhorted to be on the alert, guarding our hearts and praying so that we may be ready for that day.

Today Derek speaks about the bride who has made herself ready for Christ. She has clothed herself in fine linen, which are the righteous acts of the saints. We have been created in Christ Jesus for good works, each strand of which will make up our clothing. It is up to each one of us to seek the Lord about what He has for us to do.

Derek shares one specific sign Jesus said would herald the end of the present age and His return in glory. That sign was the proclamation of the gospel of the kingdom to all nations in the whole world. It is Priority Number 1—to move out ahead of the forces of evil and carry out this task with great urgency.

Throughout the New Testament God’s requirements for holiness are nearly always linked with the anticipation of the Lord’s return. This is echoed by the exhortation of the writers of the New Testament. It is the strongest single motivation for holy living, and if we are truly motivated in that way, then we will live holy lives.

In today’s study Derek points out that all creation is looking forward to the return of Jesus when the sons of God will be revealed in all their glory. When Adam and Eve fell, creation was subjected to the circumstances of sin. But at Christ’s return, redemption will encompass all creation as well as man.

Derek points out that the return of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom is the only hope for suffering humanity. It is only the return of Jesus that will put an end to war, poverty, sickness, oppression, injustice, hatred, and more. Only His return will bring righteousness, peace, relief, and deliverance to the oppressed, sick, and suffering.