Introduction
For a while now, we’ve been exploring the profound topic of “The Holy Spirit and the Believer.” During this time, we’ve uncovered the incredible ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer and how aligning with the Holy Spirit can lead to remarkable results that surpass human understanding, all for the glory of Jesus.
As we conclude this series tonight, it’s imperative that we open our hearts wide to receive the teachings that will be shared. If you aspire to witness the Holy Spirit’s extraordinary work in your life, then it’s crucial to pay meticulous attention to the teachings. Remember, faith is an indispensable element, and faith is built through hearing the Word of God. So, as we delve deeper, our hearts become fertile ground for the Holy Spirit’s transformative work.
The Command to Wait for the Holy Spirit
We commence our discussion by reflecting on Jesus’ words to His disciples in the book of Acts, specifically Acts 1:4-5. Jesus issued a clear directive: *”WAIT…”* In the military, when a commander gives an order, the response is a resounding “Yes, Sir!” followed by meticulous execution of the command. Jesus instructed His disciples to wait for the promise of the Father, which is none other than THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. This command underscores the absolute necessity of the Holy Spirit’s ministry in the life of every Christian.
To illustrate this, think of a person who receives a visa and permit to enter a foreign country (analogous to salvation). This individual gains legal rights within this new land and might even be cared for by the government if they lack the means to support themselves. However, despite having these rights, they may still face limitations due to a lack of financial resources. Similarly, a believer who is born again but has not yet received the Holy Spirit might be akin to this person. Money represents permission in the world, granting access to countless things previously inaccessible. When a believer is filled with the Holy Spirit, they gain access to the fullness of God’s inheritance made available through Jesus.
The Holy Spirit and the Survival of the Church: A Historical Perspective
Let’s briefly consider the history of the early church during the persecution under Roman Emperor Nero. Understanding why Jesus commanded believers to *wait* until they are filled with the Holy Spirit before embarking on their Christian journey is vital. These early Christians faced dire persecution, including being thrown to lions, yet they unwaveringly held onto their faith in Jesus. This remarkable courage and steadfastness were the direct result of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has been the driving force behind the church’s survival in the face of various adversities.
In essence, you need the Holy Spirit to fully live out the Christian life according to God’s divine plan for you.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
Turning our attention to Acts 2:14-18, we encounter the transformation of Peter. Despite having once denied Jesus three times, Peter now boldly stands before thousands, speaking with profound wisdom and declaring a prophecy from the book of Joel. This remarkable change occurred after Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit. This underscores a vital truth: the Holy Spirit provides utterance and imparts knowledge about things we may not have known, precisely when it is essential for us to reveal Jesus through our words.
In other words, the Holy Spirit equips believers to glorify God by conveying His truths with power and conviction.
The Baptism by Jesus: The Holy Spirit and Fire
In Acts 3, we witness Peter’s encounter with a lame man by the Beautiful Gate. Peter declares, *”…in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.”* This demonstration of the Holy Spirit’s power is inherently tied to exalting Jesus Christ.
Let’s delve deeper into this concept. John the Baptist, in Matthew 3:11, prophesied about Jesus, saying, *”HE SHALL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND WITH FIRE.”* Jesus himself affirmed that unless He ascended to the Father, the Holy Spirit could not come. He promised to send the Holy Spirit to believers. In John 1:12, we learn that those who receive Jesus receive the power to become children of God. Jesus is the One who baptizes believers with the Holy Spirit.
In the words of the late Tele Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke, *”From the time of His ascension, Jesus stands in the liquid flame of fire baptizing men with the Holy Ghost.”*
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of “The Holy Spirit and the Believer,” remember this fundamental truth: you need the Holy Spirit to live out the Christian life to the fullest, just as you need money to access numerous privileges in the world. The Holy Spirit is the key to unlocking the fullness of God’s inheritance made available through Jesus Christ.
Allow the Holy Spirit to empower you, transform your speech, and equip you to glorify God in all you do. Embrace the baptism of the Holy Spirit that Jesus offers, for it is this Spirit who empowers you to become a bold and unwavering witness for Christ.
May you continue to walk in the fullness of the Holy Spirit’s power, spreading the love and message of Christ to the world.
Hungry Thirsty Heart: “We are spreading God’s love to the cosmos”
