God the Holy Spirit
The Personality of the Spirit
The Third Person, Not a Force
Description
The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force, influence, or energy but a divine person possessing intellect, will, and emotions. He can be lied to, grieved, blasphemed, and resisted—responses impossible toward a mere power. He speaks, teaches, guides, intercedes, and makes decisions ('it seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us'). Christ referred to Him with personal pronouns ('He,' 'Him') even when the grammatical gender of 'Spirit' (pneuma) is neuter. The Spirit's personhood is essential to understanding His work—He does not merely empower believers mechanically but personally indwells, teaches, comforts, and sanctifies them.
Key Verses
But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost... thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things.