In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland invites you into a personal and theological journey to better understand one of the most mysterious persons of the Trinity: God the Holy Spirit.

Derek shares how his view of the Holy Spirit has evolved—from childhood questions in a Southern Baptist church to transformative encounters as a teenager, through charismatic experiences, and into a mature, ecumenical appreciation for the Spirit’s work today. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and his own story, Derek unpacks why the Holy Spirit is not just an idea or force—but God’s living presence, shaping us to love and live like Jesus.

Along the way, Derek reflects on the Spirit’s role as the agent of God’s work on earth, the giver of spiritual gifts, and the power behind personal and communal transformation. He also highlights the wisdom of Father Raniero Cantalamessa and the invitation for all believers to seek fresh encounters with the Spirit—not once, but over and over.

Whether you’re curious about spiritual gifts, wondering about baptism in the Holy Spirit, or simply longing for renewal, this episode will help you open your heart to God’s ongoing work.

Key Takeaways

✔️ The Holy Spirit is God’s personal presence, not an impersonal force.

✔️ The Spirit empowers believers with love, gifts, and Christlike character.

✔️ Spiritual experiences and scriptural grounding can (and should) go hand in hand.

✔️ Seeking the Holy Spirit is not a one-time event but an ongoing invitation.

✔️ Renewal by the Spirit is essential for both personal faith and church life.

🎧 Listen now and renew your openness to the peace, power, and kindness of God the Holy Spirit.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Acts 1:8

Romans 5:5

John 20:22

1 Corinthians 13

Jeremiah 31:31–33

Galatians 5:22–23

Books mentioned in this podcast:
Come, Creator Spirit by Raniero Cantalamessa

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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