Our church’s statement of faith explains:
“We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit which includes: the baptism in the Holy Spirit as an experience distinct from regeneration (with signs following) His indwelling by which the Christian is enabled to live a Godly life; His supernatural gifting and empowering of the church for its work, life and worship.”
Acts 1: 8; 2:1-4 & 38; 8:12-17 are key passages to consider. Several phrases have been used to describe this same experience. Following are a few of these phrases you may hear people using to describe these gifts:
A. Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
B. Baptism with the Holy Spirit or Holy Ghost.
C. The infilling of the Holy Spirit.
D. The fullness of the Spirit.
E. The Holy Spirit.
F. Receiving the Holy Spirit.
G. The Second Work of Grace.
It is the gift of power from God. Please read Luke 3:16 and 24:49. It was promised by the prophet Joel in Joel 2:28.
What do these verses say to you?
It is the special anointing on the life of the Christian to empower him/her to witness and to equip him/her for spiritual living. Please read Acts 1: 1-8 – Consider this scripture passage in your own words.
Why Was it Given?
The Holy Spirit came as the Comforter in the absence of Christ (see John 14: 16-17). He came to give power to people to be his witnesses. “Witness” refers to more than a verbal testimony of Jesus. The gifts and fruit of the Spirit provide strength to that witness. Please read 1 Corinthians 14: 24-25, 1 Cor. 13 and Galatians 5:22.
What need do you see for the baptism of the Holy Spirit in your life?
Is it for today?
As is salvation, water baptism and the Lord’s Supper (communion). Please read Acts 2: 38-39.
Who is the Holy Spirit for?
Is one automatically filled with the Spirit when one becomes a believer in Jesus?
A. The ideal may be to receive all God has for us right away. However, most of us seem to grow one step at a time.
B. Luke 24:49 – These people were already disciples who believed.
C. Acts 8:14-17 – Samaritan Christians were taught that there was something more!
D. Acts 10:44-48 – A case where a God fearing man received assurance of salvation and the baptism of the Holy Spirit at once.
E. John 3:5 and 1 Corinthians 12:13 refers to salvation (baptism by the Spirit). Compare these verses with Matthew 3:11, Acts 1:5; 1:8; 2:4 which refer to baptism of the Holy Spirit by Jesus. 1 Corinthians 12:13 – At salvation, the Holy Spirit baptizes unto Christ. Matthew 3:11 – At Pentecost, Jesus baptizes us in the Holy Spirit.
What was your experience with God when you received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
What is the Sign or Signs of the Holy Spirit Baptism?
A. The initial signs in Acts were appearances of fire new language (see Acts 2:4; 10:45-46; 19:6). This sign certainly is in evidence in the book of Acts. Although most people do experience another language as an initial sign, it is reasonable to assume that God, in His sovereignty, could choose some other sign for you. When you have received this power, God intends you to know it! See Acts 8:18
B. The conviction of a new experience with the Holy Spirit. It is a separate happening which continues. Please read Ephesians 5:18 in the Amplified Bile the intent of this verse is more fully evident. “Keep on being filled with the Holy Spirit”.
What do you think might happen when you receive the Baptism in the Holy Spirit?
Is it the Same as Water Baptism?
No it is not. Please read Acts 8: 15-17. Describe in your own words what you picture happening in this passage.
Those who may not have received this power are not second rate Christians. However, when God offers His blessings it is important to receive them. This power is given to enable us to fulfill the spiritual mandate God has given us. Please read Luke 24: 46-49.
Do you have any questions or comments you would like to discuss regarding the Baptism in the Holy Spirit?
How do we Receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?
1. Recognize that this promise is for you.
2. Know that you are a believer and follower of Jesus Christ.
3. Have a heart-felt desire to be filled with the Spirit.
4. Ask God to fill you with this power and expect a genuine manifestation of this power as He fills your life! (Luke 11:13)
5. By faith in God’s promise, receive His power to give greater glory to God and effective witness to mankind.
