Chapter 10: Having Begun in the Spirit

Walking in the Spirit in the Process of Change

Christian growth is not self-improvement; it is Spirit-empowered transformation. The flesh can imitate religion, but only the Spirit produces genuine change.

Pastor Chuck Smith emphasized this distinction constantly: “Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh?” He was quoting Galatians 3:3, which captures the essence of sanctification. What begins by grace must continue by grace.

At the Calvary Chapel Fellowship of Biblical Counselors, we teach that walking in the Spirit means daily dependence upon the Lord’s indwelling presence. The Ministering Servant cannot produce fruit in another person’s life any more than they can produce it in their own. Our role is to direct others to abide in Christ, who said, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

Pastor Bob Hoekstra often reminded us that “true change occurs as we draw upon the life of Christ.” The Spirit applies the work of the cross to our hearts, transforming us from the inside out. That’s why Paul wrote, “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 3:18)

In counseling, this truth frees both the Ministering Servant and the Disciple in Care from the pressure of performance. The goal is not moral behavior but spiritual fruit. As believers walk in step with the Spirit, the character of Christ is formed within them — love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23).

At CCFBC, we remind our students that sanctification is not instantaneous but progressive. It is not achieved through striving but through abiding. The Spirit who regenerates also renews, and the same grace that saves us empowers us to grow.

Pastor Chuck’s life illustrated this dependence beautifully. He was steady, patient, and yielded to the Lord in every season. That calm trust flowed from walking in the Spirit. As we learn to yield in that same way, we too will find that “His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness.” (2 Peter 1:3)

“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”

Galatians 5:25