Are You Controlled by God or Something Else?

Many Christians hear the phrase “filled with the Holy Spirit” and immediately think of emotional experiences, extraordinary manifestations, or something reserved for spiritually elite believers.But in Ephesians 5:18, Paul gives a much more practical picture.“Do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit.”In this message, Dr. Rocky Ramsey explains that Paul uses drunkenness as a contrast of control. Alcohol alters behavior, emotions, boldness, speech, generosity, and decision-making. People often use alcohol to gain what they were meant to find in God—confidence, relief, escape, joy, and comfort.While drunkenness wastes life, Holy Spirit-filling leads to flourishing.Being filled with the Spirit enables believers to obey God, maximize opportunities, and fulfill responsibilities in worship, family, and work.Notably, Paul immediately follows Ephesians 5:18 with practical instruction about worship, marriage, parenting, and workplace relationships. This reveals that Spirit-filling is not disconnected from ordinary life—it is the power source for faithful living.The sermon also distinguishes between two important doctrines:• The baptism of the Holy Spirit happens once at the new birth.• The filling of the Holy Spirit is continual and ongoing.Do you have a question for Pastor Rocky? Email [email protected] to submit your questions today.Watch Corryton Live every Sunday at: https://corryton.online.church/