The Holy Ghost (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Holy Ghost (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Holy Ghost is Section XXVI of The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction, Michael Ferrebee Sadler's 1872 expansion of the Church Catechism in question-and-answer form.

Summary

Sadler expounds the person and work of the Holy Ghost. He argues for the Spirit's deity, his role in revelation, and his work in regeneration, sanctification, and sacramental life.

Sadler's Text

Sadler's catechetical treatment of this topic is anchored in the statement, "I believe in the Holy Ghost." He further explains the section by saying, "We are baptized into His Name equally with that of the Father and of the Son; and since Baptism is a most solemn dedication to God, we could not be thus dedicated to Him if He were not God."

Theological Themes

• Person of the Holy Ghost
• Divinity of the Spirit
• Inspiration
• Regeneration and sanctification

Scripture References

The following references are representative biblical texts used or implied in this section of Sadler's catechetical exposition:

• Acts 5:3-4
• John 15:26
• 1 Corinthians 2:13
• 1 Corinthians 3:16
• 2 Timothy 3:16
• 2 Peter 1:21

Anglican Context

This section belongs to Sadler's exposition of the baptismal promise to believe the articles of the Christian faith. It is especially connected with the Apostles' Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the use of the creeds in Anglican public worship. Sadler's treatment reflects nineteenth-century Church of England catechesis and should be read as a historical Anglican source alongside current provincial formularies and catechetical resources.

See Also

• The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction
• Apostles' Creed
• Nicene Creed
• Church Catechism
• Anglican Doctrine