Footnotes for “Holy Spirit as normal”
(To expand the subject just a bit, here are the background thoughts that framed my recent blog about the Holy Spirit. Yes, this matter might be bigger than at first meets the writing/reading eye….)
Uncertain times – A newer form of biblical interpretation proposes that much of Scripture was authored, proclaimed and taught in times of great societal stress—a context of terror. We may now live in similar situations.
Holy Spirit as feminine – This theological proposition comes from early Christian writings, and from some of the feminine attributes connected to the Hebrew words and uses of spirit.
Rescue, motivation or inspiration – Luther may have been correct in his warnings about the “enthusiasts”—those who measured their spiritual well-being primarily in emotional terms. The brain’s pleasure mechanisms are activated by and engender emotions, which in turn affect decision-making. Connecting the Spirit only to emotional states of mind might diminish other brain functions that the Spirit also influences.
Hope and gratitude – All theology reinforces these positive human character traits. We want to find hope—and with it, courage. Gratitude keeps us away from the sin of self-idolatry.
“Ordinary”- Our forebrains attend more to what’s unique, surprising or rare. The ordinary functions and routines of life are relegated to habituated attention and decision-making structures in our brains. In our culture of attention-seeking—”everything and everyone is special”—it might just be possible that what’s ordinary deserves particular attention!
Apostles’ Creed (Third Article) – Luther’s explanation of this article of the creed uses rich verbs to describe the Spirit’s activities over the entire landscape of practical theology. The Spirit changes both individuals and the entire Church.
Injuring/ignoring the Spirit’s power – Limiting God in any way can pry open a subtle entry point for apostasy.
Necessary background tasks – Sanctification rests on the foundation of the Spirit’s life-changing work. Much of that groundwork can be invisible and quiet.
Uncomfortably wrong – Always a possibility when writing from the heart.
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