Holy Spirit Baptism....

Every believer needs the Baptism in the Holy Spirit and, especially those that serve in various places of ministry within the church.

For many people, the first question that must be resolved is: Is it real? Consider with me at least three reasons the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a valid and valuable gift for God’s people.

1. It is clearly taught in God’s Word (Joel 2:28-29, Luke 3:16, Acts 2:1-4, Acts 10:44-46

And Acts 19:1-6). The Baptism in the Holy Spirit should be taught, not because it is

part of our doctrine, though it is, it must be taught, and people encouraged to seek for it

because it is biblical truth.

2. There is nothing in scripture to even suggest that the Baptism in the Holy Spirit was for a limited time or a certain people. Joel 2:28-29 lets us know that the Holy Spirit would be “poured out on all flesh”. Acts 2:39 teaches us that the Baptism in the Holy Spirit

Is trans-generational.

3. It is “the promise of the Father” (Acts 1:4). We understand that God the Father doesn’t promise us bogus, counterfeit and demonic, or things that are detrimental to our

relationship with Him.

Contrary to what is taught in some circles, the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is not received at salvation. Scripture teaches that it is subsequent to and secondary to salvation. Paul asked some disciples/followers in Ephesus, if they had received the Holy Spirit “since they believed”, indicating that it is a separate experience. Neither does scripture teach that this experience is a prerequisite for salvation. John 3:16 is still true: “whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”

Large denominations, high profile ministers nor changes in church culture determine the message of God’s church. God’s church must preach the Gospel of Jesus’ sinless life and atoning work on the cross. People must be taught the timeless principles, precepts and promises of God’s Word. We need not be silent on the subject of the mighty Baptism in the Holy Spirit. As never before, we must be a Spirit-filled, spirit-empowered church that demonstrates God’s love, mercy and power to a confused and Christ-less culture.