XI. How we may know that the Holy Ghost dwells in us.
We may know if the Spirit of God dwells in us by his effects or gifts, which include a correct knowledge of God, regeneration, faith, peace of conscience, and the beginning of new obedience to God. “Being justified by faith we have peace with God.” “The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” (Rom. 5:1, 5.) We may also know if the Holy Ghost dwells in us, by the testimony which he bears with our spirit that we are the children of God. So also comfort in the midst of death, joy in afflictions, a firm purpose to persevere in faith, unutterable groans and fervent prayers, together with a sincere profession of Christianity, are most certain evidences and indices of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. “No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.” (1 Cor. 12:3.) In a word, we may know whether the Holy Ghost dwells in us, by our faith and repentance.