In a profound reflection on Christian doctrine, Emeritus Professor Mercy Olumide has illuminated the critical role and regenerating power of the Holy Spirit. Dated 27 December 2025, her exposition, titled "Adoration (43)," delves into the biblical narrative of the Spirit's descent and His enduring work in the lives of believers.
The Promise and Power of the Divine Helper
Professor Olumide outlines the sequential bestowal of the Holy Spirit, noting a pivotal moment just before Jesus' ascension and the subsequent outpouring on all believers at Pentecost, as recorded in the Book of Acts. She emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is not a mere force but the very presence of God within believers. This divine presence actively assists Christians in living according to God's will and is instrumental in building Christ's church on earth. A central tenet of her message is that by faith, believers can appropriate the Spirit's power each day.
The academic clarifies the meaning behind the term "Helper," used in the Gospel of John. This title, she explains, combines the ideas of comfort and counsel, portraying the Holy Spirit as a powerful person who advocates for and works alongside the faithful.
The Spirit of Truth and the Call to Obedience
A significant portion of the reflection focuses on the Holy Spirit's identity as the Spirit of truth. Professor Olumide connects this title directly to Jesus, who is truth incarnate. Consequently, the Spirit's ministry involves testifying to truth, enlightening believers, exposing falsehood, and guiding them into all truth. She issues a stern caution, stating that those who sacrifice truth for unity or other reasons effectively deny the Spirit they claim resides within them. A church that abandons truth, she asserts, abandons its Lord.
The Spirit's role as Counselor, she notes, is not for those indifferent to faith or halfhearted in their commitment. He comes specifically to those who worship "in spirit and in truth." Furthermore, obedience to Christ's commandments is presented as non-optional for those seeking eternal life. While this obedience may never be perfect, it must be genuine, marking the life of a true disciple.
The Indwelling Presence and Christ's Assurance
Professor Olumide highlights the progression of the Spirit's relationship with believers as promised by Christ. Initially, the Spirit was with the disciples, but Jesus promised He would be in them. This promise of indwelling was fulfilled after Christ's resurrection when He breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit."
This indwelling presence is how Jesus continues to reveal Himself to the obedient believer. The Spirit makes believers aware of the personal presence, love, blessing, and help of Jesus. This awareness of Christ's nearness is described as one of the Spirit's primary tasks, a reality meant to inspire love, worship, and devotion in response.
The full text of "Adoration (43)" by Emeritus Prof. Mercy Olumide was shared via email and social media, offering a deep theological resource for the Christian community in Nigeria and beyond.
