DIFFERENT THOUGHTS - #2

THE HOLY GHOST

IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

Elden Watson

February 1989

The Holy Ghost is a subject that is not sufficiently understood in the Church. Much of the difficulty is admittedly because of a lack of study on the part of the Latter-day Saints, however, on this subject, even church authorities, writers, historians and scholars have been unable to shed much light on the subject beyond a few basic principles which were established by the Prophet Joseph Smith. It is unfortunate that the Prophet never saw fit to present the topic in greater depth. It is also unfortunate that language provides an additional barrier to a straightforward understanding of the subject. In discussing the Holy Ghost, church writers and speakers frequently use such alternative designations as the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, the Testator, the Revelator, the Sanctifier, the Holy Spirit of Promise, the Spirit of Truth and the Spirit of the Lord. In addition to the mere multiplicity of names, there is another language related difficulty which has caused the Holy Ghost to be a topic to be avoided by beginning students of the Gospel. In a very real sense this difficulty was caused by the translators of the King James bible, but it shows up as apparently contradictory statements about the nature of the third member of the Godhead. Even a few statements by the Prophet Joseph Smith appear irreconcilable, and students have spent hours debating which statements are right and which are wrong, when the problem is more one of grammar than correctness.

A German Example: Faith

An analogous problem exists in the German language, wherein the German speaking Saints are hampered in their study of "faith," because there is no separate word to express that concept. In German the word for faith (Glauben) is identical to the word for belief (Glauben). Therefore it is difficult in German to discuss the difference between these two related but different concepts. In English, where even though the specific distinctions are not always agreed upon, faith and belief can be discussed, whereas in German it is frequently easier to say "What difference does it make?" It is always difficult to intelligently discuss two related topics for which language itself does not make an adequate distinction.

The Problem in English

"The Holy Ghost" is a male personage. He is a spirit personage, meaning that he does not possess a physical body similar to the resurrected bodies of the Father and the Son, yet he does possess a spirit body. He is a spirit son of our Father in Heaven, and hence is our brother, a younger brother of Jesus Christ, and he is the third member of the Godhead.

"The Holy Ghost" is also that aura or influence, which emanates from every deified being. It does not have a body either of spirit or physical nature. It is sometimes called the Light of Christ, but it is not tangible, and is not a personage.

In the King James Bible, the King James translators have rendered both of these "the Holy Ghost" even though they are readily distinguishable in the original Greek. The fact that the English language does not adequately distinguish these two subjects has led some to say "What difference does it make?" and avoid the topic altogether, and has led others to believe the prophets and the scriptures guilty of gross inconsistencies.

Beyond the translations:

The original meaning

This article does not purport to answer all questions about the Holy Ghost, but it does suggest the consistency of the New Testament authors in distinguishing between "the Holy Ghost (person)" and "the Holy Ghost (influence)," which distinction is totally absent in the English translation. It is hoped that a realization that a distinction was intended by the authors will be sufficient justification for a distinction to be sought by the readers.

First, the Holy Ghost and the Holy Spirit are the same. Both "Ghost" and "Spirit" are translations of the same Greek Word Pneuma. "Spirit" is the better translation, because it can always be used, whereas "Ghost" is normally only used in connection with the word "holy." Evidently King James Bible translators in 1611 A.D. felt that "the Holy Ghost" more adequately described the third member of the Godhead than "the Holy Spirit," and so that translation was used wherever possible. Christian theology in 1611 allowed no consideration of either the Holy Ghost or even the Father, as a personage.

The phrase "the Holy Ghost" appears in the King James New Testament 91 times(1) but a close comparison of that phrase with the Greek from which it was translated reveals the following information: There are five distinguishable Greek phrases, all of which have been translated identically as "the Holy Ghost" in English.(2)

Although the differences in the original are minor, they are significant, and a separate examination of each of those phrases leads to a better understanding of the Holy Ghost.

The five phrases in Greek, discounting any differences in capitalization, translated literally into English are:

  1. Spirit
  2. Spirit Holy
  3. The Spirit
  4. The Holy Spirit
  5. The Spirit the Holy

Closer examination shows that "Spirit" may be considered an abbreviated form of "Spirit Holy" and "the Spirit" is an abbreviated or shortened form of "the Holy Spirit," but the differences between the remaining three forms are more significant:

  1. Spirit Holy
  2. The Holy Spirit
  3. The Spirit the Holy

In English it is not immediately apparent that omission of the definite article, or the number of times it is used in a phrase is at all significant, but Greek is a much more elaborate language than English, and such minor differences are often intentionally utilized to convey specific and import and variations in meaning. It is our intent to examine separately each of the above three phrases, and contrast their meanings and the contexts in which they appear. The results are both consistent and sufficiently dramatic to justify the exercise.

According to the structure of Greek grammar, usage of the definite article ("the") should indicate a specific personage, whereas absence of the definite article is often used to indicate the personification, or giving of human attributes to, an abstraction. In English the personification of abstractions is not nearly as frequent as it was in Greek, but when it is done, the same rules apply. Most of us are not aware of the specific rules for such things, we just notice that it sounds right or it sounds wrong. For example: when personification of abstractions are used the definite article is omitted:

"Mercy stood before us with the scales of Justice in her hand."

Mercy is not a person, it is an abstraction, but we can speak of it as having a hand, and of holding the scales of justice in that hand. When we do, we leave off the definite article, because it sounds right [i.e. we would not say "The Mercy stood before us...," nor would we say"...with the scales of the Justice in her hand."]. In a similar sentence where a real personality is indicated, the definite article must be present:

"The Judge stood before us with a gavel in his hand."

"Judge stood before us ..." makes as little sense as "The Mercy stood before us ..." Remember that these minor differences are even more important in the Greek language. Double use of the definite article as in "the Spirit the Holy," virtually reequires that the reference be to a specific individual or personage.

Appendix I is a sequential listing of all of those passages in the King James Bible which have been translated "the Holy Ghost" showing in each instance, in literal English, the Greek phrase from which it was translated. These are the passages we will be examining.

SPIRIT HOLY

Grammatically, absence of the definite article should suggest that those new testament references to "the Holy Ghost" which are characterized by the Greek form "Spirit Holy" should describe an influence or an aura rather than a personage [i.e. the personification of an abstraction]. Analysis of the context of each of these passages strongly supports that premise.

"Spirit Holy," rather than being God, is a gift of God [Rom 5:5; Titus 3:6 sent down from heaven [1 Peter 1:12]. Sometimes men are spoken of as being baptized with or in it [Matt 3:11; Mark 1:8; Luke 3:16; John 1:33; Acts 1:5; 11:16], which would be a difficult concept if a personage were intended. But the important point is that the New Testament authors are consistent, and whenever anyone is spoken of as being baptized in the Holy Spirit, it is "Spirit Holy," and never either of the other forms.

Newly baptized Saints were prayed for, that "Spirit Holy" might fall on them [Acts 8:15], but this was followed by the laying on of hands, the method by which it was usually given [Acts 8:17; 9:17].

God anointed Jesus with it and it is associated with his source of power [Acts 10:38]. When it was given by Jesus to his apostles, he did it by breathing on them [(Pneuma can be translated as both spirit and breath, so breathing can represent giving of the spirit) and saying "Receive ye Spirit Holy." [John 20:22], and after his ascension it was his means of giving commandments to them [Acts 1:2].

Righteous men and women (including Christ), presumably after baptism, were filled with it [Luke 1:15; Luke 1:41, 67; 4:1; Acts 4:8; 6:5; 11:24; 13:9, 52], or in some verses it is upon them [Luke 2:25], or dwells in them [2 Tim 1:14].

On the day of Pentecost, it was manifest by cloven tongues of fire and accompanied by speaking in tongues [Acts 2:4]. It is almost always accompanied by manifestations of power, including visions [Acts 7:55], restoration of sight [Acts 9:17-18], power to remit sins [John 20:22] and other gifts of the Spirit, all of which witness of God [Heb 2:4] and it is a constant source of hope in the Saints [Rom 15:13]. Its power was so obvious that Simon the magician offered to buy the power to give it by the laying on of hands, but was rebuffed and told that it could not be purchased [Acts 8:14-23].

"Spirit Holy" was also closely associated with missionary work. The Gospel was preached by it [1 Peter 1:12], with power and much assurance [1 Thes 1:5]. In association with baptism, it is the principle (not personage) that saves us, [Titus 3:6] and is the cause of sanctification in the Saints [Rom 15:16]. Perhaps because it was a strong influence on the conscience [Rom 9:1], testified of the good word of God [Heb 6:5], and gave approval of the ministers of God [2 Cor 6:6], it was the major cause of investigators receiving the gospel [1 Thes 1:6; 2 Tim 1:14] and was expected to be received by converts after belief and baptism [Acts 19:2]. Paul testified that no man can say (Joseph Smith Translation "know") that Jesus is the Lord without it [1 Cor 12:3].

It is closely associated with the powers of the world to come [Heb 6:5] and fortified Paul when speaking against Elmas the Sorcerer [Acts 13:9]. Elmas the Sorcerer was struck blind by its power, through Paul [Acts 13:10-11]. Partakers of "Spirit Holy" who then turn from it are lost [Heb 6:4-6].

"Spirit Holy" is associated with a feeling of joy and peace [Acts 13:52; Rom 5:5; 14:17; 15:13; 1 Thes 1:6], and love of God is induced by it [Rom 5:5]. Saints are advised to pray in "Spirit Holy" which not only builds faith, but keeps them in the love of God [Jude 20].

It was "Spirit Holy" (the aura or influence) which the scriptures indicate had to do with Mary conceiving [Matt 1:18, 20; Luke 1:35].

In ancient times holy men of God spake as they were moved by "Spirit Holy" [2 Pet 1:21], and this verse provides us with the key to understanding the relationship between the various Greek forms which have all been translated "the Holy Ghost" in English. Specifics of this interrelationship will be discussed later in this article.

Additional usages of

"the Holy Ghost"

As Translated from the Greek form

"Spirit"

In its usage (which one would expect grammatically because of lack of the definite article) "Spirit" is evidently an alternative or abbreviated form of "Spirit Holy."

From the few additional verses we learn that it is a quality desired in those chosen to preside [Acts 6:3], it always teaches truth in contradistinction to man's teachings which may sometimes be in error [1 Cor 2:13], and that as a gift, it was not given before Jesus was glorified [John 7:39].

It is of particular significance that in the 59 references to "Spirit Holy," and the 3 additional references to "spirit," (which is exhaustive in the New Testament), none of the references require application to a personage or an individual, although many of the references could be used in either sense. Many of the references, such as being baptized in "Spirit Holy" or being filled with "Spirit Holy," require that it not be a personage. In its grammatical usage, "Spirit Holy" typically stands in apposition to words like "fire," "water," and "power," rather than persons or individuals. Note that in every instance it seems proper to speak of it as "it" rather than "he." we ;now want to contrast this usage with that examined in the following section.

THE SPIRIT THE HOLY

Unlike the abstract usage of "Spirit Holy," "the Spirit the Holy" is almost always directed to a distinct individual or personality, who prophesied through the mouths of Old Testament Prophets, specified the ordinances of the Law of Moses, spoke to men and called them on missions, and was lied to by Ananias. Greek grammar would require that "the Spirit the Holy" represent an individual or a personage, and it in fact does in the majority of the passages.

"The Spirit the Holy" is the Comforter whom (not which) the Father will send in the name of Christ [John 14:26]. He is sent by God to them that obey him [Acts 5:32] as was promised by the Father [Acts 2:33], and is both a teacher of all things [John 14:26] and will bring all things to your remembrance [John 14:26].

Although he is spoken of as given by laying on of hands [Acts 19:6], at the baptism of Christ, it was he who descended in bodily shape upon Christ in the form of a dove [Luke 3:22], and He was given to the disciples in the beginning [Acts 15:8]. He was the cause of the cloven tongues of fire and speaking in tongues etc. on the day of Pentecost [Acts 2:33], and induced prophesying and speaking with tongues on at least one other occasion [Acts 19:6]. He revealed (Gr: communicated) things to men [Luke 2:26], called particular individuals to be overseers of the flock [Acts 20:28], spoke to the overseers of the Church at Antioch in order to call Barnabas and Saul on their mission [Acts 13:2], and when it was decided to send Judas and Silas with Barnabas And Paul, the decision "seemed good to him" [Acts 15:28].

The ordinances of the Law of Moses were specified by him [Heb 9:6-9] and He not only prophesied through the mouth of Isaiah [Acts 28:25] and spoke through David and other Old Testament prophets [Mark 12:36; Acts 1:16; Heb 3:7; 10:15], but He also spoke through the apostles [Mark 13:11] and prophets [Acts 21:11] of New Testament times.

He was a witnesses to Paul in every City, that he was to go to Jerusalem where bonds and afflictions awaited him [Acts 20:23]. His role as a witness (noun) is most interesting because only a sentient being can be a witness, and he is spoken of as a special witness for Jesus, as were the apostles [Acts 5:32; Heb 10:15]

Speaking against him (blasphemy) will not be forgiven men [Matt 12:32; Mark 3:29], nevertheless He was resisted by the wicked Jews [Acts 7:51] and Ananias lied to Him by keeping back money [Acts 5:3].

He was given by God to the Gentiles [Acts 15:8] and fell on Cornelius and his Gentile associates as Peter testified of Christ [Acts 10:44; 11:15]. This was considered by Peter sufficient reason that the Gentiles be baptized [Acts 10:47]

In the 34 references to "the Spirit the Holy" in the New Testament, the majority of them are used in an anthropomorphic sense. "The Spirit the Holy" typically stands in apposition to such words as "the Father [Mat 28:19]," "we [Acts 5:32]," "us [Acts 15:28]," and "the Son of Man [Mat 12:32]." The Spirit the Holy" communicates, calls, speaks, prophesies and witnesses, is lied to, etc., none of which terms were used in referring to "Spirit Holy," in the previous section. One usage of "the Spirit the Holy" which frequently recurs throughout the New Testament is that the "falls on" believers, an expression which may not fit homogeneously with our feelings about the Holy Ghost as a personage, but again, the usage is consistant and is certainly an idiom rather than an error.

THE HOLY SPIRIT

Next, we examine the New Testament usage of "the Holy spirit" and its abreviated form "the Spirit." Again the individual is emphasized in the majority of the passages, but not so strongly as in the usages of "the Spirit the Holy." "The Holy spirit" tends to emphasize the holiness of the individual, while "the Spirit the Holy" stresses the character of the person.(3) There are 12 New Testament references to "the Holy Spirit" and one additional reference to "the Spirit."

Men were baptized in the name of the Father and the Son and "the Holy spirit" [Matt 28:19] and blasphemy against him will not be forgiven [Luke 12:10]. It was he who gave men power to be witnesses of Christ [Acts 1:8] and taught them the things that they should say [Luke 12:12]. He was a source of comfort to all the churches in Judaea, Samaria and Galilee during times of rest from persecution as they grew in size [Acts 9:31] and communion with him was considered a great blessing [2 Cor 13:14]. Barnabas and Saul were called on their joint mission by him [Acts 13:4], but later he forbade them to go into Asia to preach the gospel there [Acts 16:6]

The gift of "the Holy Spirit" was promised after repentance and baptism [Acts 2:38] and when the saints were filled with it, they spoke the word of God with boldness [Acts 4:31]. This gift was poured out upon the Gentiles, astonishing those Christians who were with Peter and witnessed it [Acts 10:45]. Paul testified to the saints that their body is a temple of "the Holy Spirit" which is in you [2 Cor 6:19].

Additional usages of

"the Holy Ghost"

As translated from the Greek form

"the Spirit"

"The Spirit" only appears once as a source for the translation of "the Holy Ghost. For convenience, and because of the presence of the definite article, we shall classify it here as an alternative form of "the Holy Spirit." It adds an additional reference that blasphemy against "the Spirit" will not be forgiven [Matt 12:31].

All indications are that "the Spirit the Holy" is the same individual as "the Holy Spirit" [Acts 10:44-48; 13:2-4]

Note that the Greek phrases which we have examined are not completely independent: Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost will not be forgiven whether we are speaking of "Spirit Holy," "the Holy Spirit" or "the Spirit the Holy." The key to understanding the relationship between these three expressions is found in 2 Peter 1:21. "The Spirit the Holy" prophesied through the mouth of Isaiah [Acts 28:23] and other Old Testament prophets [Mark 12:36; Acts 1:16; Heb 3:7; 10:15] but 2 Peter 1:21 states that men of God spake in times past as they were moved upon by "Spirit Holy." Therefore, "the Spirit the Holy" spoke through Old Testament prophets by means of the power or influence known as "Spirit Holy." The two are intimately related, one being the individual (the Spirit the Holy) and the other the influence or power (Spirit Holy) by which he executes his purposes. It is therefore understandable that some overlapping of terms occurs.

Nevertheless, it is the distinctions that lead to interesting theological interpretations. For example: It appears that the gift of "the Spirit the Holy" is "Spirit Holy," a concept which is difficult to express in English. It is also interesting that it was "Spirit Holy" (the aura or influence) which the scriptures indicate had to do with Mary conceiving [Matt 1:18, 20; Luke 1:35].

It should be noted that Pneuma in Greek is a neuter noun which may properly be referenced by the pronoun "it" as in Rom 8:16,26.(4)

It might be argued that in a literal translation from Hebrew or Aramaic, the personal pronoun "she" could be permissible, because the word for spirit is feminine in both of those languages. In no instance will Greek grammar allow the usage of the masculine emphatic pronoun "he" (ekeinos) unless the author is intentionally emphasizing that the spirit referred to was a male person. Such usage does appear in John 14:26; 15:26; 16:8, 13, 14. The New Testament is clear that the third member of the Godhead is a male personage, although many New Testament passages which have been translated "the Holy Ghost" in the King James bible do not refer to the individual, but rather to the aura or divine power or influence which propagates from that individual.

Although many questions remain, it is hoped that this brief study will help somewhat toward a better understanding of the Holy Ghost. One thing is certain: The authors of the New Testament had a much better understanding of the Holy Ghost than did its translators.

APPENDIX I

King James Usages of "the Holy Ghost"

Matthew 1:18-20

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of Spirit Holy. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of Spirit Holy.

Matthew 3:11

I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with Spirit Holy, and with fire:

Matthew 12:31-32

Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Spirit shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Spirit the Holy it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.

Matthew 28:19

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Mark 1:7-8

And preached, saying, There cometh one mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose. I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with Spirit Holy.

Mark 3:28-29

Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme: But he that shall blaspheme against the Spirit the Holy hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation:

Mark 12:35-36

And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in the temple, How say the scribes that Christ is the Son of David? For David himself said by the Spirit the Holy, The Lord said to my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies my footstool.

Mark 13:11

But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit the Holy.

Luke 1:34-35

Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, Spirit Holy shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Luke 1:41

And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with Spirit Holy.

Luke 1:67-68

And his father Zacharias was filled with Spirit Holy, and prophesied, saying, Blessed be the Lord God if Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,

Luke 2:25-26

And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and Spirit was Holy upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Spirit the Holy, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

Luke 3:16

John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with Spirit Holy and with fire:

Luke 3:21-22

Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, and the Spirit the Holy descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

Luke 4:1

And Jesus being full of Spirit Holy returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness,

Luke 12:10

And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Spirit it shall not be forgiven.

Luke 12:11-12

And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: for the Holy Spirit shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.

John 1:32-34

And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with Spirit Holy. And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.

John 7:39

(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for Spirit, was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

John 14:25-26

These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the comforter, which is the Spirit the Holy, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

John 20:21-23

Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye Spirit Holy: Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.

Acts 1:1-2

The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through Spirit Holy had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:

Acts 1:5

For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with Spirit Holy not many days hence.

Acts 1:7-8

And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Acts 1:16

Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Spirit the Holy by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.

Acts 2:1-4

And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with Spirit Holy, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit, gave them utterance.

Acts 2:33

Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Spirit the Holy, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

Acts 2:38

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 4:8-9

Then Peter, filled with Spirit Holy, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;

Acts 4:31

And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

Acts 5:3

But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Spirit the Holy and to keep back part of the price of the land?

Acts 5:30-32

The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Spirit the Holy, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

Acts 6:3-5

Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of Spirit Holy, and Phillip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:

Acts 7:51-55

Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Spirit the Holy: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.

When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. But he, being full of Spirit Holy, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God.

Acts 8:14-20

Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive Spirit Holy: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received Spirit Holy. And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive Spirit Holy. But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.

Acts 9:17-18

And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with Spirit Holy. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose and was baptized.

Acts 9:31

Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, were multiplied.

Acts 10:34-38

Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) That word, I say, ye know which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with Spirit Holy and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

Acts 10:44-48

While Peter yet spake these words, the Spirit the Holy fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Spirit. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Spirit the Holy as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

Acts 11:15-17

And as I [Peter] began to speak, the Spirit the Holy fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with Spirit Holy. Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ: what was I, that I could withstand God?

Acts 11:24

For he [Barnabas] was a good man, and full of Spirit Holy and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.

Acts 13:2-4

As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Spirit the Holy said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So they, being sent forth by the Holy Spirit, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

Acts 13:9-10

Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with Spirit Holy, set his eyes on him, [Elymas the sorcerer] and said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?

Acts 13:52

And the disciples were filled with joy, and with Spirit Holy.

Acts 15:7-9

And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Spirit the Holy, even as he did unto us; and put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

Acts 15:27-28

We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth. For it seemed good to the Spirit the Holy, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;

Acts 16:6-8

Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia, after they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit (Greek: the Spirit of Jesus) suffered them not. And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.

Acts 19:1-7

And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, he said unto them, Have ye received Spirit Holy since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Spirit Holy. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Spirit the Holy came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. And all the men were about twelve.

Acts 20:22-23

And now, behold, I [Paul] go bound in the Spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: save that the Holy the Spirit witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.

Acts 20:28

Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Spirit the Holy hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

Acts 21:10-11

And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus, and when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Spirit the Holy, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.

Acts 28:25-26

And when they [some of the chief Jews] agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Spirit the Holy by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers, saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:

Romans 5:5

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by Spirit Holy which is given unto us.

Romans 9:1-2

I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in Spirit Holy, that I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.

Romans 14:16-17

Let not then your good be evil spoken of: for the kingdom of God is not meat and drink: but righteousness, and peace, and joy in Spirit Holy.

Romans 15:13

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of Spirit Holy.

Romans 15:16-17

That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the Gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by Spirit Holy.

1 Corinthians 2:9-16

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit, for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God, which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which Spirit teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

1 Corinthians 6:19

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

1 Corinthians 12:3

Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no may can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by Spirit Holy.

2 Corinthians 6:6

By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by Spirit Holy, by love unfeigned.

2 Corinthians 13:14

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 1:5-6

For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in Spirit Holy, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of Spirit Holy: So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.

2 Timothy 1:13-14

Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by Spirit Holy, which dwelleth in us.

Titus 3:5-6

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of Spirit Holy; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

Hebrews 2:3-4

How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of Spirit Holy, according to his own will?

Hebrews 3:7-8

Wherefore (as the Spirit the Holy saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:

Hebrews 6:4-6

For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of Spirit Holy, and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

Hebrews 9:6-9

Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. But into the second went the high priest alone once every year,not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people: the Spirit the Holy this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:

Hebrews 10:15-17

Whereof the Spirit the Holy also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, this is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;

1 Peter 1:12

Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with Spirit Holy sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.

2 Peter 1:20-21

Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by Spirit Holy.

1 John 5:7

For there are three that bear record [in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth,] the spirit, and the water and the blood: and these three agree in one.

Jude 20

But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in Spirit Holy, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

 

NOTES


1. Two additional usages are found in many Greek texts, and have been included in some versions of the Bible. They are found in Luke 10:21 and Acts 4:25. 1 John 5:7 is an interpolation, the words in italics in Appendix IV do not exist in the best manuscripts, and it is not counted here. Except for six translations of "gave up the ghost," which is from a totally different word, these are the only instances of the word ghost in the King James New Testament.

2. See George V. Wigram, The Englishman's Greek Concordance of the New Testament, Zondervan Publishing house, 1970, page 632 note.

3. W. E. Vine, Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, Fleming H. Revell Company, 1981, Volume 4 page 64.

4. This has been corrected to "he" in most other versions.