The Renewing of the Holy Spirit
E. H. Hopkins. Titus 3:4-7 But after that the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man appeared,… The word "renewing" is used in the Scriptures in reference to the starting point of the Christian life — regeneration, and to the progressive development of it, day by day. Consider it now in the latter sense, that is in connection with the Holy Spirit's work in those who have "life eternal." I. ESTABLISHING. 1. Bringing back the wanderer (Hosea 14:1, 2; Job 22:23). 2. Settling the unstable (Psalm 51:10; Psalm 57:7; Ephesians 3:17). 3. Comforting the fearful (Psalm 23:3; Psalm 51:12). II. STRENGTHENING. 1. Separating us from the things that hinder our growth (2 Corinthians 6:16-18). 2. Bringing us into closer contact with the Fountain of Supply (Isaiah 40:31; Ephesians 3:17). 3. Enlarging our capacity and powers of reception (2 Corinthians 4:16). III. TRANSFORMING. 1. Illuminating the mind (Romans 12:2; Colossians 3:10). 2. Gladdening the heart (Romans 15:13; Romans 14:17). 3. Energising the will (Ephesians 3:16; Ephesians 4:23). 4. Transfiguring the character (2 Corinthians 3:18). (E. H. Hopkins.) Parallel Verses KJV: But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, WEB: But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love toward mankind appeared,