Lecture Notes on Pneumatology and Christology

Introduction

• Key Concepts
  • Pneumatology: Doctrine of the Holy Spirit
  • Christology: Doctrine of Jesus Christ
• Main Question: How closely are pneumatology and christology related?

Close Relationship between Pneumatology and Christology

• Nicaea-Constantinopolitan Creed (381)
  • Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son
  • Highlights the close relationship between Christology and Pneumatology
• Interplay in Scripture and History
  • Narratives in the New Testament emphasize Jesus' life intertwined with the Spirit
  • Elizabeth Johnson and F. Marti Karan emphasize mutual relationship in their writings

Continuing Work of Jesus through the Holy Spirit

• Augsburg Confession (17th Century)
  • Jesus works through the Holy Spirit to sanctify, purify, strengthen, and comfort
• Christological Pneumatology or Pneumatological Christology
  • Reflects the Triune God: One God, not three separate entities

Misconceptions and Teachings

• Misconception: Jesus became Christ or the Son of God at baptism
  • Contradicts Biblical teachings on the pre-existence of the Word
  • Augustine argues against the notion that Jesus received the Holy Spirit at baptism
• Trinitarian Doctrine
  • Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are co-eternal and unified

Biblical Instances of Son and Spirit Interaction

• Peter’s Sermon (Acts 2)
  • Christ received the Holy Spirit from the Father and pours it out
• Basil of Caesarea’s Writings
  • Every act of Jesus performed in the presence of the Spirit

Role of the Holy Spirit in the Incarnation

• Mary’s Role
  • Holy Spirit’s activity in Mary’s womb leads to the birth of Jesus
  • Ephraim the Syrian describes this as "fire entered the womb"

Co-Presence of Christ and the Holy Spirit

• Ambrose of Milan
  • Where the Holy Spirit is, there is Christ, and vice versa
• Modern Reflections
  • United Church of Christ: Jesus remains connected through the Holy Spirit

Baptism of Jesus

• Narrative Significance
  • Baptism highlights the Holy Spirit’s presence and empowerment of Jesus
  • Demonstrates the dynamic interplay between Spirit and Christ

Conclusion

• Unity in Divine Action
  • Pneumatology and Christology reveal the singular will and mind of God
  • Testing the Spirits to discern true divine work must align with Christ’s intentions

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• Discussion Prompt: Reflect on the relationship between the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ and share thoughts in online forums.