Spirits on SermonAudio

From Genesis 1.2 to 2.1 God brings form, fulness, light, and habitation to creation by the operation of His Spirit. From Genesis 3.6 to Revelation 21,22 God de-creates in judgment, but recreates in grace, bringing final and lasting form, fulness, light, and habitation by the operation of His Spirit in the redemption and consummation of all things.

This sermon was preached on September 13, 2026 at Antioch Presbyterian Church, a congregation of Calvary Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church in America located in Woodruff, South Carolina. Pastor Zachary Groff preached this sermon entitled "Principles of Holiness" on Exodus 22:16-31. For more information about Antioch Presbyterian Church, please visit ⁠antiochpca.com⁠ or contact us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected].

Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord." 11 So the Lord said to him, "Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight." 13 Then Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name." 15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake." 17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." 18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. 19 So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.

What happens when there is conflict between two parties? How is it often handled? If your brothers sins against, the Lord commanded that we go and tell him his fault, one on one. This would also apply to groups of people. Let them know that they might be doing something wrong, even though they may not know it. Here, we have a situation where there are two sides, both devoted to the Lord, but there was a misunderstanding and an attributing of ill motive. How do we tend to handle such conflict? First, we must recognize that the body of Christ is One and then, be sure that we are worshiping the Lord in Spirit and in truth.

This sermon explores the multifaceted ministry of the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth, emphasizing His essential role in guiding believers and convicting the world. It outlines three primary functions: condemnation of sin and unbelief in the world, illumination of Scripture for understanding, and a singular focus on glorifying Jesus Christ. The message warns against cultural relativism and false spiritual experiences, urging listeners to test all teachings against biblical truth. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a love for truth, remain sensitive to the Spirit's leading, and trust in Christ alone for salvation.

Sunday Evening Service

The sermon addresses common theological confusions within the church by distinguishing between reformation and regeneration, religion and relationship, regret and repentance, reputation and righteousness, and reason and responsibility. It emphasizes that true salvation requires a spiritual rebirth through the Holy Spirit rather than mere moral improvement or adherence to human traditions. The preacher argues that genuine faith involves a personal relationship with Jesus Christ based on God's Word, contrasting this with empty religious rituals and worldly sorrow. Believers are urged to prioritize divine righteousness over public opinion and to fulfill their evangelistic responsibilities without using excuses to avoid witnessing. Ultimately, the message calls for clarity in understanding the gospel to ensure authentic conversion and faithful Christian living.