14-16 The unspiritual self, just as it is by nature, can’t receive the gifts of God’s Spirit. There’s no capacity for them. They seem like so much silliness. Spirit can be known only by spirit—God’s Spirit and our spirits in open communion. Spiritually alive, we have access to everything God’s Spirit is doing, and can’t be judged by unspiritual critics. Isaiah’s question, “Is there anyone around who knows God’s Spirit, anyone who knows what he is doing?” has been answered: Christ knows, and we have Christ’s Spirit.

* * *

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Compact Bible--soft leather-look, black
The Message Compact Bible--soft leather-look, black
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $9.99
Save: $20.00 (67%)
The Message: Solo - An Uncommon Devotional
The Message: Solo - An Uncommon Devotional
Retail: $19.99
Our Price: $13.99
Save: $6.00 (30%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Devotional Bible, Hardcover
The Message Devotional Bible, Hardcover
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $23.99
Save: $6.00 (20%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible: Luke & Acts
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible: Luke & Acts
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $2.99
Save: $5.00 (63%)
The Message Student Bible - eBook
The Message Student Bible - eBook
Retail: $18.99
Our Price: $9.99
Save: $9.00 (47%)
The Message, Large Print Premium Leather, Black
The Message, Large Print Premium Leather, Black
Retail: $149.99
Our Price: $105.99
Save: $44.00 (29%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars