Fred Sanders, Professor of Theology at Biola University, discusses misconceptions and truths about the Holy Spirit, including praying to the Spirit, neglect of His work, and understanding the Spirit within a Trinitarian perspective.
Depictions of the Holy Spirit in art and literature often present misconceptions, emphasizing the challenge of accurately portraying the Spirit in physical form.
Biblical imagery of the Holy Spirit through symbols like wind, flame, and a dove encourages understanding and appreciation of the Spirit's essence.
Deep dives
Depictions of the Holy Spirit in Art and Literature
Many depictions of the Holy Spirit in art and literature have presented misconceptions by inventing characteristics without biblical basis. Examples like depicting the Holy Spirit as a young Asian woman named Saraiu in The Shack showcase arbitrary and random interpretations. Medieval art often depicted the Holy Spirit as a younger figure with details entirely fabricated from the artist's imagination, highlighting the challenge of accurately portraying the Spirit in physical form.
Biblical Depictions and Interpretations of the Holy Spirit
The Bible provides imagery of the Holy Spirit through symbols like wind, flame, and a dove, emphasizing the Spirit's essence rather than physical form. It encourages understanding and satisfaction with the biblical representations of the Spirit, such as the dove descending on Jesus in the Jordan River. The biblical portrayal of the Holy Spirit offers guidance on how to perceive and appreciate the divine presence in a non-physical yet meaningful way.
Deity and Personhood of the Holy Spirit
Scripture supports the Holy Spirit's deity through references equating the Spirit with God. The Spirit is distinct from the Father and the Son, representing a personal aspect within the Trinity. Bright spots in the Old Testament and New Testament, like Isaiah 63 and Pentecost, respectively, showcase the Spirit's divine nature and essential role in salvation history. The Spirit's intercessory function and presence post-Christ's work at Pentecost underscore the deity and personhood of the Holy Spirit.
Praying to the Holy Spirit and Understanding His Role
While it is acceptable to pray to any person who is God, the focus in Scripture primarily leans towards prayer to the Father and occasionally to the Son. The Holy Spirit's unique role as an intercessor and deep connector with believers highlights a personal yet distinct manner of communication. Understanding the biblical proportions of prayer to the Trinity aids in recognizing the Holy Spirit's significance while maintaining a balanced approach to prayer practices.
Who is the Holy Spirit? How does the Holy Spirit work in our lives? What are some common misconceptions about the Holy Spirit and what are some vital truths to know to live in the power of the Spirit? Sean and Scott speak with fellow Biola professor Fred Sanders about these questions and his new book The Holy Spirit: An Introduction.
Fred Sanders (PhD, Graduate Theological Union) is a professor of theology at the Torrey Honors College at Biola University. Sanders is the author of multiple books including The Deep Things of God. He blogs regularly at fredfredfred.com.
Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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