The Baptism in the Holy Spirit
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 (all are not necessarily Biblically accurate):
(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
What Is It?
A) It is the enduement of power from God. Please read Luke 3:16 and 24:49. It was promised by the prophet Joel in Joel 2:28. What illustration can you think of that would describe such power?
B) It is the special anointing on the life of the Christian to empower him/her to witness and to equip him/her for spiritual warfare. Please read Acts 1:1-8. Condense this Scripture passage in your 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 men 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 Corinthians 13 and Galatians 5:22-23.
What need do you see for the baptism of the Holy Spirit in your life?
Is It for Today?
Just as much as salvation, water baptism and the Lord's Supper (Communion). Please read Acts 2:38-39. For whom is the Holy Spirit?
Is It Subsequent to Salvation or Does It Come "With the Package?"
A) The ideal would be to receive all God has for us right away. However, if that happened some of us may not be able to take it!
B) Acts 2:4 - These people were already disciples who believed. Jesus urged them to wait for further blessing!
C) John 7:38-39 - Does not refer to salvation, but to this subsequent experience of power.
D) Acts 8:14-17 - Samaritan Christians were taught that there was something more!
E) Acts 10:44-48 - A case where a God-fearing man received assurance of salvation and the baptism of the Holy Spirit at once.
F) 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.
What was your experience with God when you received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour?
What Is the Sign of the Holy Spirit Baptism?
A) The initial sign in Acts was a new language (see Acts 2:4; 10:45 & 46; 19:6). This sign is in evidence throughout the book of Acts and the Apostle Paul encouraged all believers to speak in tongues privately and with interpretation publicly (1 Corinthians 14:1-19, 26-28). God could, in His sovereignty, choose some other sign for you. However, 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 Bible 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. Please read Acts 8:9-17. 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 fulfil 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?