The Power of the Holy Spirit: Is God Still Moving Today?

The Tension Between Faith and Experience

In many modern circles, there is a quiet but persistent tension regarding the supernatural. We see the stories in the New Testament. The blind seeing, the lame walking, and the profound prophetic insights that changed the course of history. Therefore, we wonder: Is that still for us? So, many believers find themselves sitting on the fence. They aren’t sure if the gifts of the Spirit have ceased or if they are simply waiting for a fresh encounter. If you have felt a stirring in your heart to move in the gifts of the Holy Spirit, or if you have struggled with doubt based on what you’ve seen (or haven’t seen), it’s time to lay a solid foundation.

What the Bible Says About Miracles and Power

Does Scripture Support Cessationism?

The argument that God has stopped moving in power—often referred to as cessationism—is not one that finds solid ground in the Bible. Nowhere in the Word of God does it say that the move of the Holy Spirit has come to an end. Therefore, to adopt such a doctrine often requires pulling a single word or verse out of its broader context, ignoring the consistent testimony of the entire New Testament.

The New Testament Evidence

We must consider the context of the Gospels, the teachings of Jesus Christ, and the experiences of the early church. There is no logical or scriptural explanation that points to a specific date when miracles were “scheduled” to stop. On the contrary, countless believers today continue to witness the direct intervention of God through visions, signs, wonders, and the operation of spiritual gifts.

Why Some Deny the Power of the Holy Spirit

If the Bible supports the continuation of these gifts, why is there so much opposition? Usually, the resistance stems from two main places:

Misunderstanding the Sovereignty of God

1. The Sovereignty of God: Some find it difficult to accept that God moves according to His own will. They ask why one person receives a miracle while another doesn’t. Because they cannot control or predict the move of God, they find it easier to deny it altogether.

The Impact of Lacking Personal Encounter

2. Lack of Personal Encounter: Many people are skeptical because they have never seen the move of God for themselves. However, a lack of experience does not negate the truth of the Word.

A Form of Godliness Without Power

There is a significant danger in denying the power of God. In 2 Timothy 3:1-9, we are warned about those in the last days who will have a “form of godliness” but deny its power. This refers to an outward religious appearance that lacks the actual ability to be transformed by a relationship with the Living God.

Understanding the Gifts of the Holy Spirit

The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts

The gifts of the Holy Spirit—including the word of wisdom, the word of knowledge, supernatural faith, healing, prophecy, discernment, and tongues—are not badges of honor, but, they are tools for ministry.

The Role of the Five-Fold Ministry

Similarly, God is still raising up leaders in the “five-fold ministry” described in Ephesians 4: Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers. These roles exist to equip the body of Christ and to ensure the message of the Gospel is preached with divine empowerment.

Operating in Discernment and Truth

When we operate in these gifts, we must do so with high levels of discernment. We need the ability to distinguish not just right from wrong, but to discern spirits and ensure that what we are doing remains in total alignment with the Word of God. The goal of any spiritual gift is always the same: to lift up the name of Jesus and promote the truth.

From Doubt to Encounter: Lessons From Paul

If you are struggling with doubt, remember the Apostle Paul. Before he was the great writer of the New Testament, he was Saul—the primary persecutor of the church. He didn’t just need a better argument; he needed an encounter.

Saul’s Transformation on the Road to Damascus

One moment on the road to Damascus changed his life forever, turning him from a skeptic into the most fervent supporter of the faith.

How God Still Transforms Lives Today

God is still in the business of life-changing encounters. He is still moving, still speaking, and still empowering His children to do the works that Jesus did.

Positioning Yourself for Encounter and Growth

Prayer for Activation and Empowerment

Precious Holy Spirit of God, we welcome You. Come and touch every heart reading this today and lead us in the right way. Take control and help us to live as we ought to live.

I pray that I will move in Your power and in Your gifting as led by Your Holy Spirit. Release the grace that I need to be able to operate in that gifting which You have determined for my calling and Your will for my life.

Lord, raise up those who move in the word of wisdom and the word of knowledge. Raise up those who move in supernatural faith, the gift of healing, and miraculous powers. I pray Lord, raise up those who move in prophecy and the gift of discernment, that they will be able to discern not only right from wrong but also the discernment of spirits. Raise up those who speak in tongues and those who interpret tongues by the power of Your Holy Spirit.

Father, I pray that You will raise up those called to the five-fold ministry—the apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers of this day and age. Let them receive divine empowerment in accordance with Acts 1:8 so they may operate in a way that gives You glory and promotes that which is true. I pray this in the mighty name of Jesus.

Amen.