Baptism of Holy Spirit
Acts 1:5 "For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit."
One of the core doctrines of the New Testament is the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. Although it is much debated between Christian denominations today, we find the context of scripture clear on the matter. That said, we assert that these discussions should be driven by love for one another as well as a love for God and a sincere heart to grow in our relationship with Him. We have included the following article as a resource for you. We hope it helps answer some fundamental questions. And as always, Center Church staff and elders are available to help you work through any questions that arise here.
This article that follows is borrowed from The Fire Bible, study edition, and the scriptures are NIV translation.
- - -
An Introduction:
In Acts 1:4-5, Jesus tells His disciples: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John Baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
This gift that God the Father promised (Joel 2:28-29; Matthew 3:11) is the baptism in Holy Spirit. The fulfillment of that promise is described as b being “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:4). This means that being “baptized in the Spirit” and “filled with the Spirit” are at times used interchangeably - in place of one another in the book of Acts. However, not every reference to being filled with the Spirit is speaking of the baptism in Holy Spirit.
This baptism in the Holy Spirit is not the same as receiving the Holy Spirit. When we accept the forgiveness of Christ, and surrender our lives to Him, we receive the Holy Spirit and become spiritual saved. The Baptism of the Spirit is a filling, verses receiving. These are two distinct works of the Spirit, sometimes separated by a period of time. (Don’t worry. We are about to dive deeper into this!)
The preposition “with” is the translation of the Greek word “en” and is often translated as “in.” This means that the phrase also could be interpreted, “you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit.” In the same way, “baptized with water” may be translated “baptized in water.” The word “baptized” suggests being immersed, so baptism in the Spirit is being immersed in and saturated with the Holy Spirit and His power. Jesus Himself is the one who baptizes His followers in the Holy Spirit.
All of the gospels (the accounts of Jesus’ life: Matthew, Mark, Luke & John) state that Jesus is “He who will baptize with (in) the Holy Spirit (Mt 3:11; Mk 1:8; Lk 3:16; Jn 1:33). The baptism — a sign of cleansing and empowering — was to be the dynamic characteristic and distinction of Jesus’ followers. The Holy Spirit would be poured out on them (and into them) so that spiritual salvation throughout the world (Acts 1:8). The task of baptizing in the Spirit is the ongoing purpose of Jesus to this day (Mathew 3:11, Acts 2:39).
Continue reading for a deeper dive into these concepts.
Biblical Facts about the Baptism
The baptism in Holy Spirit is a gift God wants us to have. Jesus said that this gift is a promise from God to the Father (Joel 2:28-29; Lk 24:49; Ac 1:4-5, 8)
(1) This is for all Believers.
The baptism in the Spirit is for everyone who has accepted Jesus’ forgiveness and given control of their lives to Him. Such people have been spiritually born again (John 3:3-7). God's Spirit has come to live within them to transform their lives, redevelop their character and guide them into God's purposes. Receiving the Holy Spirit in this way (at the point of spiritual salvation), however, is not the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
(2) This was one of the main goals of Christ's mission.
One target of Jesus’ mission on earth was to baptize His followers in the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:11; Mark 1:8; Luke 3:16; John 1:33). Jesus told His disciples that one of the main reasons He had to leave them shortly after His resurrection was so that Holy Spirit would come and be with them from then on (John 16.5-7). The Spirit's constant presence is that important!
Before He left the earth to return to heaven, Jesus instructed His disciples not to begin the Great Commission, their mission to spread His message throughout the world, until they were baptized in the Holy Spirit and "clothed with power from on high" (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4-5, 8).
Jesus Christ, Himself, did not begin His public ministry until He had been "anointed .. with the Holy Spirit and power" (Acts 10:38. Luke 4:1, 18). To be anointed means to be set apart, commissioned and empowered for service. To be baptized suggests being immersed. Like Jesus, we must be immersed (completely soaked or saturated) and empowered by God's Spirit so we can continue His mission of spreading the good news about forgiveness and new life through faith in Jesus.
(3) The baptism in the Holy Spirit is distinct and separate from spiritual birth (salvation).
On the day of Christ's resurrection, He breathed on His disciples and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit.” (John 20:22), giving them new spiritual life. Then later He told them they must also be "clothed with power" by the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49, Acts 1:5, 8). For the disciples, this experience clearly followed their spiritual birth.
The Bible describes a similar sequence of events following the spiritual salvation of the groups of Believers mentioned in Acts 8:14-17, which says, "When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that people in Samaria had accepted the Word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. When they arrived, they prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, because the Holy Spirit had not yet come upon any of them; they had simply been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit."
See also Acts 19:1-7, where disciples in Ephesus, who had accepted the message of Christ and were baptized in water, then received the baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues and prophesying. Yet, the fact is that a person can be born again or saved spiritually - which means that the Holy Spirit lives within them - but still not be baptized in the Holy Spirit - not yet filled with Holy Spirit.
(4) To be baptized in the Spirit means to be filled with the Holy Spirit
See Acts 1:5; 2:4 The word "baptize" actually means to immerse or to dip into; but since the Spirit works within a person, baptism in the Spirit implies an overflow of the Spirit. For example, a person who receives spiritual salvation is like a container that was empty being filled with fresh, clean water. Like the container, the person is no longer empty, but has the Holy Spirit living inside. Then, the baptism in the Holy Spirit is like pouring more clean water into the container until it overflows from within.
A person who is baptized in the Spirit becomes saturated and immersed with God's presence to the point that it spills out of his or her life and is so evident that it influences others. The specific experience of being baptized with the Holy Spirit occurred only at and after Pentecost (Acts 2). For those who were described as filled with the Spirit before Pentecost (Luke 1:15, 67), Luke does not use the term "baptized" in the Holy Spirit. This would occur only after Christ left the earth and returned to heaven (Luke 24:49-51; John 16:7-14; Acts 1:4).
(5) An Initial Sign: speaking in tongues
In the book of Acts, one of the initial outward signs or physical evidence that a believer had been baptized in the Spirit was that they spoke in tongues as the Spirit prompted them, or gave them the ability and the words to speak (Acts 2:4; 10:45-46; 19:6).
Speaking in tongues involves a language that the speaker has never learned (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 14:14-15), although it may be a language spoken somewhere on earth. In Acts 2:6, the people who heard the 120 in the upper-room speak in tongues recognized the languages. However, it may also be a heavenly language - unknown to anyone on earth, as in 1 Corinthians 13:1, where Paul mentions speaking in "tongues of angels”. Whether the language is understandable to the hearers or is like no other language on earth, it is a means of communicating with and expressing praise to God.
Note: At Center Church, we do not believe that speaking in tongues equals being filled with Holy Spirit. Although many Christians, even whole denominations, have asserted that speaking in tongues is a filter to determine whether someone is Spirit-filled or not, Center Church does not adhere to this elimination standard. We hold that there are legitimate reasons why someone might be Spirit-filled and unable to express this gift, including theological background and fear of man (worry of what others will think). If this is a struggle for you, we encourage you to reach out to our leadership or a trusted, bible-believing spiritual mentor.
We do encourage you to eagerly pursue all spiritual gifts! God will use them through you to be a blessing to you and anyone around you. And we have found this particular gift invaluable to our daily walk in a personal relationship with God. (See 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14)
Baptism in the Holy Spirit is linked so closely with the outward expression of speaking in tongues that this should be considered a normal sign when receiving this baptism. Some think that this powerful experience was only as a sign to help get the early church started. But the purpose was not just to get people's attention or prove God's power as the church began. Jesus said the Spirit would provide His followers with ongoing power and guidance (John 16:13). This purpose is just as relevant today, for we still need that power and guidance to carry on Christ's mission in the world. (For more on this distinction, we recommend The Essential Guide to the Power of the Holy Spirit, linked below.)
(6) Boldness and Power - for the works of Jesus today
The primary purpose of the baptism in the Holy Spirit is to bring the personal boldness and power of God's Spirit into a Christian's life so that he or she can accomplish Christ's purposes with His authority. The highest aim for this spiritual power is to cause Christians to be effective in spreading His message throughout the world (Acts 1:8; 2:14-41; 4:31; 6:8; Romans 15:18-19; 1 Corinthians 2:4).
This power is not some impersonal force, but is an expression of the Holy Spirit which makes Jesus' presence, power and purposes a reality for His people (John 14:16-18; 16:14; 1 Corinthians 12:7). The baptism in the Holy Spirit is not just a matter of speaking in tongues on having a "deeper" spiritual experience. Christ's followers are to use the Spirit's power to share Jesus with those who do not know Him. On the day of Pentecost, the outward sign of the baptism in the Holy Spirit was speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4), but the outward result was that many who did not know God were introduced to Him that day (Acts 2:41).
(7) Other results
Speaking in tongues is only a portion of a genuine baptism in the Holy Spirit. Other results include:
(8) God's Word gives several conditions that must exist before receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
(9) The baptism in the Holy Spirit is sustained (maintained and continued in a constant flow) in the believer's life by consistent prayer (Acts 4:31), bold witness (Acts 4:31, 33), worship in the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18-19) and a life that is continually growing in godly character (Ephesians 5:18).
Though a person's experience may be powerful or extraordinary at the beginning, if they do not develop these disciplines, along with an increasing desire for holiness (moral purity, spiritual wholeness, separation from evil and dedication to God), the experience will soon fade.
For further comments on how the baptism in the Holy Spirit and praying in tongues can enhance the effectiveness of your prayer life.
(10) The baptism in the Spirit occurs once in a Christian's life. It marks a point at which the person is set apart, approved and empowered for God's work of spreading His message in power and purity. The Bible teaches that there may be new or "fresh" fillings with the Holy Spirit after a Christian has been baptized in the Spirit (Acts 2:4, 4:31; Ephesians 5:18).
The baptism in the Spirit brings a Christian into a special relationship with God's Spirit that is to be continually renewed (Acts 4:31) and maintained (Ephesians 5:18). One way to ensure the flow and life of this relationship is to pray daily "in the Spirit" (Romans 8:26, Ephesians 6:18).
This is a crucial part of one's spiritual development (1 Corinthians 14:4). Being filled with the Spirit is more than a one time experience; it is an ongoing aspect of Christian life that enhances one's ability to recognize and respond to the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Getting Ready to Receive God’s Gift
Once you realize that the baptism in the Holy Spirit is a gift God wants you to have and a gift that you want and need, you may still have questions about what might happen as you open yourself to be baptized with the Spirit. Keep in mind that your personal experience may differ from that of other people. No one can tell you exactly what you will experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind as you get ready to receive.
(1) Get right with God.
Repent of any sin: admit, express true sorrow for, and turn from anything that may have offended God, receive forgiveness from Jesus and submit to His leadership in your life.
(2) Ask in faith.
Pray and believe that God will fulfill His promise to baptize you in the Holy Spirit (John 14:16; Acts 1:4; 2:33). This prayer is driven by a strong desire for greater holiness (moral purity, spiritual wholeness, separation from evil and dedication to God) and should accompany your prayer.
Do not partner with doubt that you will speak in tongues as the initial physical evidence that you have received God's gift. If you are uncertain, confess that to God, and leave the results submitted to Him.
(3) Be prepared.
Some physical things may happen, and that is not uncommon. Stammering lips, tears and trembling or shaking may accompany this extraordinary experience as God's power often overwhelms a person's physical senses. However, do not try to manipulate the situation by stirring up your emotions. You may have seen well-meaning Christians surround a friend who is praying for the baptism. They may pray louder, get more expressive or try to prompt the friend in some way; but God does not work that way. Do not seek an experience; rather, desire more of Jesus!
(4) Stay focused.
Receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit is a choice. Some people never receive because they are waiting for a mystical, uncontrollable experience. But Holy Spirit does not overpower a person's will. You must cooperate with and invite Him into your life.
There are times when the Spirit may seem to completely take over as a person speaks effortlessly in tongues. But this is not how you are likely to exercise the gift on a regular daily basis. The Bible teaches that spiritual gifts are subject to (used at the discretion of) those who receive them (1 Corinthians 14:32). God does the baptizing, but you are responsible for how you respond.
Receiving the Baptism of Holy Spirit
There is no specific, lengthy formula to guarantee being baptized in the Holy Spirit; but there are some helpful patterns you can follow as you pray and prepare to receive this powerful gift:
1. Relax.
Receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit is not always an immediate experience. In the book of Acts, the believers in the upper room waited ten days. Do not get discouraged.
2. Worship God.
The baptism in the Holy Spirit is a means of honoring God. It is not about what you get from Him; it is about what He gives to you. Turn your complete attention toward Jesus. Create an atmosphere of worship and thanksgiving by expressing love and appreciation out loud, not just in your mind.
3. Seek the Giver, not the gift.
Your focus should not be on tongues or a spiritual experience; it should be on getting more of Jesus and His power in your life. The Holy Spirit's desire and purpose is to draw us to Christ (John 16:13, 14). This is our standard in all of our relationship with God - not only when we are desiring to operate in a particular gift. Our whole desire is more of God, always.
4. Leave your native language so you can speak a new language.
As you worship and wait, you may sense strange, unknown words or syllables coming to your mind. You cannot speak two languages at once, so at some point you must stop speaking in your own language and start praising in the spiritual language. The Holy Spirit will bring words to your mind, but you must do the speaking.
If your lips and tongue start stammering or trembling, the Holy Spirit is likely trying to get you to speak. You may not hear the words in your mind, but when you surrender to the Spirit and step out in faith, He will honor your faith and help you speak.
Speak, even if it does not sound like a language. Many languages and dialects may not sound like anything to you, only because you do not understand them. Being filled with the Spirit is not based on your understanding, but on speaking in obedience to the Spirit's leading.
Speak, even if it is only a few syllables. Do not worry if your spiritual language seems limited at first. More will come. Do not go back to your native language after you start speaking in tongues, whether there are many words or just a few. Cooperate with the Spirit. Do not be afraid to move your tongue and lips to form the words. (Keep in mind, however, that another person cannot begin your experience by instructing you in what to say or by giving you incoherent syllables to begin with. Only the Holy Spirit can give you the words.)
Trust that you are getting what you asked for. God promises to give the good gift of the Holy Spirit to those who desire Him with all their heart (Luke 11:9-13). Often, when people begin to sense the Spirit prompting them to speak, they are afraid it might just be their own words or simple gibberish (meaningless talk). But if your focus is truly on Christ, and you are willing to take a bold step and use the gift, you can be confident that you are getting exactly what He promised.
Summary
Jesus told His followers to expect the gift of baptism in the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49) and to be continually filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). He knew the spiritual power and sensitivity it would bring to their lives. From Acts to Revelation, we read about what Jesus' followers did through the power of the Holy Spirit. To this day, the baptism in the Holy Spirit continues to fill Christians with the desire and urgency to carry out Christ's commission to take His message throughout the world (Acts 1:8; 2:42-47).
Baptism in the Holy Spirit is as relevant now as it was in the early church because Christians today need the same power and guidance to live for Christ and accomplish His purposes.
For more information on the Baptism of Holy Spirit, we recommend the books:
The Glory Within: The Interior Life and the Power of Speaking in Tongues by Corey Russell.
The Essential Guide to the Power of the Holy Spirit, God’s Miraculous Gifts at Work Today, by Randy Clark.
One of the core doctrines of the New Testament is the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. Although it is much debated between Christian denominations today, we find the context of scripture clear on the matter. That said, we assert that these discussions should be driven by love for one another as well as a love for God and a sincere heart to grow in our relationship with Him. We have included the following article as a resource for you. We hope it helps answer some fundamental questions. And as always, Center Church staff and elders are available to help you work through any questions that arise here.
This article that follows is borrowed from The Fire Bible, study edition, and the scriptures are NIV translation.
- - -
An Introduction:
In Acts 1:4-5, Jesus tells His disciples: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John Baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
This gift that God the Father promised (Joel 2:28-29; Matthew 3:11) is the baptism in Holy Spirit. The fulfillment of that promise is described as b being “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:4). This means that being “baptized in the Spirit” and “filled with the Spirit” are at times used interchangeably - in place of one another in the book of Acts. However, not every reference to being filled with the Spirit is speaking of the baptism in Holy Spirit.
This baptism in the Holy Spirit is not the same as receiving the Holy Spirit. When we accept the forgiveness of Christ, and surrender our lives to Him, we receive the Holy Spirit and become spiritual saved. The Baptism of the Spirit is a filling, verses receiving. These are two distinct works of the Spirit, sometimes separated by a period of time. (Don’t worry. We are about to dive deeper into this!)
The preposition “with” is the translation of the Greek word “en” and is often translated as “in.” This means that the phrase also could be interpreted, “you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit.” In the same way, “baptized with water” may be translated “baptized in water.” The word “baptized” suggests being immersed, so baptism in the Spirit is being immersed in and saturated with the Holy Spirit and His power. Jesus Himself is the one who baptizes His followers in the Holy Spirit.
All of the gospels (the accounts of Jesus’ life: Matthew, Mark, Luke & John) state that Jesus is “He who will baptize with (in) the Holy Spirit (Mt 3:11; Mk 1:8; Lk 3:16; Jn 1:33). The baptism — a sign of cleansing and empowering — was to be the dynamic characteristic and distinction of Jesus’ followers. The Holy Spirit would be poured out on them (and into them) so that spiritual salvation throughout the world (Acts 1:8). The task of baptizing in the Spirit is the ongoing purpose of Jesus to this day (Mathew 3:11, Acts 2:39).
Continue reading for a deeper dive into these concepts.
Biblical Facts about the Baptism
The baptism in Holy Spirit is a gift God wants us to have. Jesus said that this gift is a promise from God to the Father (Joel 2:28-29; Lk 24:49; Ac 1:4-5, 8)
(1) This is for all Believers.
The baptism in the Spirit is for everyone who has accepted Jesus’ forgiveness and given control of their lives to Him. Such people have been spiritually born again (John 3:3-7). God's Spirit has come to live within them to transform their lives, redevelop their character and guide them into God's purposes. Receiving the Holy Spirit in this way (at the point of spiritual salvation), however, is not the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
(2) This was one of the main goals of Christ's mission.
One target of Jesus’ mission on earth was to baptize His followers in the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:11; Mark 1:8; Luke 3:16; John 1:33). Jesus told His disciples that one of the main reasons He had to leave them shortly after His resurrection was so that Holy Spirit would come and be with them from then on (John 16.5-7). The Spirit's constant presence is that important!
Before He left the earth to return to heaven, Jesus instructed His disciples not to begin the Great Commission, their mission to spread His message throughout the world, until they were baptized in the Holy Spirit and "clothed with power from on high" (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4-5, 8).
Jesus Christ, Himself, did not begin His public ministry until He had been "anointed .. with the Holy Spirit and power" (Acts 10:38. Luke 4:1, 18). To be anointed means to be set apart, commissioned and empowered for service. To be baptized suggests being immersed. Like Jesus, we must be immersed (completely soaked or saturated) and empowered by God's Spirit so we can continue His mission of spreading the good news about forgiveness and new life through faith in Jesus.
(3) The baptism in the Holy Spirit is distinct and separate from spiritual birth (salvation).
On the day of Christ's resurrection, He breathed on His disciples and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit.” (John 20:22), giving them new spiritual life. Then later He told them they must also be "clothed with power" by the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49, Acts 1:5, 8). For the disciples, this experience clearly followed their spiritual birth.
The Bible describes a similar sequence of events following the spiritual salvation of the groups of Believers mentioned in Acts 8:14-17, which says, "When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that people in Samaria had accepted the Word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. When they arrived, they prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, because the Holy Spirit had not yet come upon any of them; they had simply been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit."
See also Acts 19:1-7, where disciples in Ephesus, who had accepted the message of Christ and were baptized in water, then received the baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues and prophesying. Yet, the fact is that a person can be born again or saved spiritually - which means that the Holy Spirit lives within them - but still not be baptized in the Holy Spirit - not yet filled with Holy Spirit.
(4) To be baptized in the Spirit means to be filled with the Holy Spirit
See Acts 1:5; 2:4 The word "baptize" actually means to immerse or to dip into; but since the Spirit works within a person, baptism in the Spirit implies an overflow of the Spirit. For example, a person who receives spiritual salvation is like a container that was empty being filled with fresh, clean water. Like the container, the person is no longer empty, but has the Holy Spirit living inside. Then, the baptism in the Holy Spirit is like pouring more clean water into the container until it overflows from within.
A person who is baptized in the Spirit becomes saturated and immersed with God's presence to the point that it spills out of his or her life and is so evident that it influences others. The specific experience of being baptized with the Holy Spirit occurred only at and after Pentecost (Acts 2). For those who were described as filled with the Spirit before Pentecost (Luke 1:15, 67), Luke does not use the term "baptized" in the Holy Spirit. This would occur only after Christ left the earth and returned to heaven (Luke 24:49-51; John 16:7-14; Acts 1:4).
(5) An Initial Sign: speaking in tongues
In the book of Acts, one of the initial outward signs or physical evidence that a believer had been baptized in the Spirit was that they spoke in tongues as the Spirit prompted them, or gave them the ability and the words to speak (Acts 2:4; 10:45-46; 19:6).
Speaking in tongues involves a language that the speaker has never learned (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 14:14-15), although it may be a language spoken somewhere on earth. In Acts 2:6, the people who heard the 120 in the upper-room speak in tongues recognized the languages. However, it may also be a heavenly language - unknown to anyone on earth, as in 1 Corinthians 13:1, where Paul mentions speaking in "tongues of angels”. Whether the language is understandable to the hearers or is like no other language on earth, it is a means of communicating with and expressing praise to God.
Note: At Center Church, we do not believe that speaking in tongues equals being filled with Holy Spirit. Although many Christians, even whole denominations, have asserted that speaking in tongues is a filter to determine whether someone is Spirit-filled or not, Center Church does not adhere to this elimination standard. We hold that there are legitimate reasons why someone might be Spirit-filled and unable to express this gift, including theological background and fear of man (worry of what others will think). If this is a struggle for you, we encourage you to reach out to our leadership or a trusted, bible-believing spiritual mentor.
We do encourage you to eagerly pursue all spiritual gifts! God will use them through you to be a blessing to you and anyone around you. And we have found this particular gift invaluable to our daily walk in a personal relationship with God. (See 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14)
Baptism in the Holy Spirit is linked so closely with the outward expression of speaking in tongues that this should be considered a normal sign when receiving this baptism. Some think that this powerful experience was only as a sign to help get the early church started. But the purpose was not just to get people's attention or prove God's power as the church began. Jesus said the Spirit would provide His followers with ongoing power and guidance (John 16:13). This purpose is just as relevant today, for we still need that power and guidance to carry on Christ's mission in the world. (For more on this distinction, we recommend The Essential Guide to the Power of the Holy Spirit, linked below.)
(6) Boldness and Power - for the works of Jesus today
The primary purpose of the baptism in the Holy Spirit is to bring the personal boldness and power of God's Spirit into a Christian's life so that he or she can accomplish Christ's purposes with His authority. The highest aim for this spiritual power is to cause Christians to be effective in spreading His message throughout the world (Acts 1:8; 2:14-41; 4:31; 6:8; Romans 15:18-19; 1 Corinthians 2:4).
This power is not some impersonal force, but is an expression of the Holy Spirit which makes Jesus' presence, power and purposes a reality for His people (John 14:16-18; 16:14; 1 Corinthians 12:7). The baptism in the Holy Spirit is not just a matter of speaking in tongues on having a "deeper" spiritual experience. Christ's followers are to use the Spirit's power to share Jesus with those who do not know Him. On the day of Pentecost, the outward sign of the baptism in the Holy Spirit was speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4), but the outward result was that many who did not know God were introduced to Him that day (Acts 2:41).
(7) Other results
Speaking in tongues is only a portion of a genuine baptism in the Holy Spirit. Other results include:
- prophetic messages (statements that foretell, warn, challenge, encourage or inspire) and declarations of praise (Acts 2:4, 17; 10:46; 1 Corinthians 14:2);
- a greater sensitivity to things that offend God and grieve His Holy Spirit, a deeper awareness of God's judgment against sin and a greater desire and ability to do what is right (John 16:8, Acts 1:8);
- a life that brings honor to Jesus Christ (John 16:13-14, Acts 4:33);
- new visions and comprehension of God's purposes (Acts 2:17);
- active use of the various gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:4-10)
- a greater desire to pray (Acts 2:41-42; 3:1; 4:23-31; 6:4; 10:9; Romans 8:26);
- a deeper love and understanding of God's Word (John 16:13; Acts 2:42);
- an increasing awareness of God as one's loving Father (Acts 1:4; Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:6).
(8) God's Word gives several conditions that must exist before receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
- First, we must accept by faith Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord the Forgiver of our sins and Leader of our lives — which includes turning from our own sinful way (Acts 2:38-40; 8:12-17). This involves surrendering our own will — our desires, purposes land motivations to God ("to those who obey Him," Acts 5:32). We must avoid and abandon anything that offends God before we can be "an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master” (2 Timothy 2:21).
- We must desire to be filled. Christians should have a deep hunger for the baptism in the Spirit and the fullness of God's presence, power and purpose that the Holy Spirit brings (John 7:37-39; Isaiah 44:3; Matthew 5:6; 6:33).
- We receive this baptism in answer to prayer (Luke 11:13; Acts 1:14; 2:1-4; 4:31; 8:15, 17).
- We should anticipate that God will baptize us in the Holy Spirit (Mark 11:24; Acts 1:4-5)
(9) The baptism in the Holy Spirit is sustained (maintained and continued in a constant flow) in the believer's life by consistent prayer (Acts 4:31), bold witness (Acts 4:31, 33), worship in the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18-19) and a life that is continually growing in godly character (Ephesians 5:18).
Though a person's experience may be powerful or extraordinary at the beginning, if they do not develop these disciplines, along with an increasing desire for holiness (moral purity, spiritual wholeness, separation from evil and dedication to God), the experience will soon fade.
For further comments on how the baptism in the Holy Spirit and praying in tongues can enhance the effectiveness of your prayer life.
(10) The baptism in the Spirit occurs once in a Christian's life. It marks a point at which the person is set apart, approved and empowered for God's work of spreading His message in power and purity. The Bible teaches that there may be new or "fresh" fillings with the Holy Spirit after a Christian has been baptized in the Spirit (Acts 2:4, 4:31; Ephesians 5:18).
The baptism in the Spirit brings a Christian into a special relationship with God's Spirit that is to be continually renewed (Acts 4:31) and maintained (Ephesians 5:18). One way to ensure the flow and life of this relationship is to pray daily "in the Spirit" (Romans 8:26, Ephesians 6:18).
This is a crucial part of one's spiritual development (1 Corinthians 14:4). Being filled with the Spirit is more than a one time experience; it is an ongoing aspect of Christian life that enhances one's ability to recognize and respond to the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Getting Ready to Receive God’s Gift
Once you realize that the baptism in the Holy Spirit is a gift God wants you to have and a gift that you want and need, you may still have questions about what might happen as you open yourself to be baptized with the Spirit. Keep in mind that your personal experience may differ from that of other people. No one can tell you exactly what you will experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind as you get ready to receive.
(1) Get right with God.
Repent of any sin: admit, express true sorrow for, and turn from anything that may have offended God, receive forgiveness from Jesus and submit to His leadership in your life.
(2) Ask in faith.
Pray and believe that God will fulfill His promise to baptize you in the Holy Spirit (John 14:16; Acts 1:4; 2:33). This prayer is driven by a strong desire for greater holiness (moral purity, spiritual wholeness, separation from evil and dedication to God) and should accompany your prayer.
Do not partner with doubt that you will speak in tongues as the initial physical evidence that you have received God's gift. If you are uncertain, confess that to God, and leave the results submitted to Him.
(3) Be prepared.
Some physical things may happen, and that is not uncommon. Stammering lips, tears and trembling or shaking may accompany this extraordinary experience as God's power often overwhelms a person's physical senses. However, do not try to manipulate the situation by stirring up your emotions. You may have seen well-meaning Christians surround a friend who is praying for the baptism. They may pray louder, get more expressive or try to prompt the friend in some way; but God does not work that way. Do not seek an experience; rather, desire more of Jesus!
(4) Stay focused.
Receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit is a choice. Some people never receive because they are waiting for a mystical, uncontrollable experience. But Holy Spirit does not overpower a person's will. You must cooperate with and invite Him into your life.
There are times when the Spirit may seem to completely take over as a person speaks effortlessly in tongues. But this is not how you are likely to exercise the gift on a regular daily basis. The Bible teaches that spiritual gifts are subject to (used at the discretion of) those who receive them (1 Corinthians 14:32). God does the baptizing, but you are responsible for how you respond.
Receiving the Baptism of Holy Spirit
There is no specific, lengthy formula to guarantee being baptized in the Holy Spirit; but there are some helpful patterns you can follow as you pray and prepare to receive this powerful gift:
1. Relax.
Receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit is not always an immediate experience. In the book of Acts, the believers in the upper room waited ten days. Do not get discouraged.
2. Worship God.
The baptism in the Holy Spirit is a means of honoring God. It is not about what you get from Him; it is about what He gives to you. Turn your complete attention toward Jesus. Create an atmosphere of worship and thanksgiving by expressing love and appreciation out loud, not just in your mind.
3. Seek the Giver, not the gift.
Your focus should not be on tongues or a spiritual experience; it should be on getting more of Jesus and His power in your life. The Holy Spirit's desire and purpose is to draw us to Christ (John 16:13, 14). This is our standard in all of our relationship with God - not only when we are desiring to operate in a particular gift. Our whole desire is more of God, always.
4. Leave your native language so you can speak a new language.
As you worship and wait, you may sense strange, unknown words or syllables coming to your mind. You cannot speak two languages at once, so at some point you must stop speaking in your own language and start praising in the spiritual language. The Holy Spirit will bring words to your mind, but you must do the speaking.
If your lips and tongue start stammering or trembling, the Holy Spirit is likely trying to get you to speak. You may not hear the words in your mind, but when you surrender to the Spirit and step out in faith, He will honor your faith and help you speak.
Speak, even if it does not sound like a language. Many languages and dialects may not sound like anything to you, only because you do not understand them. Being filled with the Spirit is not based on your understanding, but on speaking in obedience to the Spirit's leading.
Speak, even if it is only a few syllables. Do not worry if your spiritual language seems limited at first. More will come. Do not go back to your native language after you start speaking in tongues, whether there are many words or just a few. Cooperate with the Spirit. Do not be afraid to move your tongue and lips to form the words. (Keep in mind, however, that another person cannot begin your experience by instructing you in what to say or by giving you incoherent syllables to begin with. Only the Holy Spirit can give you the words.)
Trust that you are getting what you asked for. God promises to give the good gift of the Holy Spirit to those who desire Him with all their heart (Luke 11:9-13). Often, when people begin to sense the Spirit prompting them to speak, they are afraid it might just be their own words or simple gibberish (meaningless talk). But if your focus is truly on Christ, and you are willing to take a bold step and use the gift, you can be confident that you are getting exactly what He promised.
Summary
Jesus told His followers to expect the gift of baptism in the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49) and to be continually filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). He knew the spiritual power and sensitivity it would bring to their lives. From Acts to Revelation, we read about what Jesus' followers did through the power of the Holy Spirit. To this day, the baptism in the Holy Spirit continues to fill Christians with the desire and urgency to carry out Christ's commission to take His message throughout the world (Acts 1:8; 2:42-47).
Baptism in the Holy Spirit is as relevant now as it was in the early church because Christians today need the same power and guidance to live for Christ and accomplish His purposes.
For more information on the Baptism of Holy Spirit, we recommend the books:
The Glory Within: The Interior Life and the Power of Speaking in Tongues by Corey Russell.
The Essential Guide to the Power of the Holy Spirit, God’s Miraculous Gifts at Work Today, by Randy Clark.
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