Understanding the Baptism of the Holy Spirit ...
There's something really awesome about gathering together in Christian worship—when voices unite, hearts align, and the presence of God is moving – so as to feel the Holy Spirit’s tangible presence in the room. We had such an experience this past Sunday– led by the worship of Dan and Amber Ray and their blessed and beautiful worship team. What an amazing group of talented individuals … it was a beautiful and Holy Anointed Worship! Honoring our Creator - Savior - Way Maker and Guide!
It's in moments like these that we remember that wherever His people gather, He is there. He is with us – many words came forward too on Sunday – but the Word “Home” came forward … spoken by one of the worshippers – Shawn – (on the beat box). Home! – Is wherever God’s people are gathered (in a tent – in a field or in a building)- Home is wherever we are … in Him! – That's church.... Welcome Home!
But what makes us truly effective as witnesses for Christ? What transforms us from mere believers into powerful ambassadors of the Kingdom? The great theologian R.A. Torrey once made a very insightful observation: "It is not the primary purpose of the baptism of the Holy Spirit to make us happy or holy—though certainly He can—but to make us useful for God."
This statement challenges our natural thinking. We often seek spiritual experiences for personal benefit, for the feelings they produce, or for our own spiritual advancement. While those things of course often do happen (you can't help but be blessed - in His blessing through you of others) - the baptism of the Holy Spirit serves a greater primary purpose: to make us powerful witnesses for Jesus Christ for salvation and enduring service.
Acts 1:8 declares: "You shall receive power after the Holy Spirit has come upon you to be my witnesses to the ends of the earth." - This power isn't about us. It's about making Christ known throughout the world. It's God clothing us with His power from on high so we can be useful to Him in His mission field.
The Heart God Seeks
But what kind of person does God choose to use? What kind of heart does He clothe with power? Isaiah chapter 6 provides a pattern. When God asked, "Whom shall I send and who will go for us?" Isaiah responded immediately: "Here am I. Send me." God wasn't wondering if Isaiah would go—He's omniscient - He already knew. But the question was asked for Isaiah's benefit, and for ours too. Our response - reveals what's truly in our hearts. Isaiah's response shows us three stages of his heart: First, he recognized God's absolute holiness. "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty," the angels cried. In the presence of such holiness, Isaiah immediately saw his own unworthiness. Second, God cleansed Isaiah’s sin. "Your guilt is taken away and your sin is atoned for,". God doesn't call the holy—He makes us holy. Today, that cleansing comes through the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. Third, came the call. Only after recognizing God's holiness and receiving cleansing did the call come: "Whom shall I send?" Isaiah's heart - response was immediate - "I'll Go"
This is the pattern for all of us: revelation of God's holiness, cleansing from sin, then the call to service. And if you're called, you need the power of the Holy Spirit. You can't go in your own strength. You'll wear out, flame out, burn out.
Different Gifts, Same Spirit
First Corinthians 12 reminds us that there are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same God at work in all of them. To each one, the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. Not for personal gain. Not for private spiritual euphoria. For the common good—to carry on the mission of Jesus Christ in this world. Different people, different gifts, but one purpose. And Paul uses a crucial word in verse 13: "We were baptized by one Spirit into the body."
The Day Everything Changed
Next Sunday marks Pentecost—the birthday of the church. Acts chapter 2 gives us the first great picture of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Imagine being in that upper room. Suddenly, a sound like a violent wind fills the space. Tongues of fire appear and rest on each person. All are filled with the Holy Spirit and begin speaking in other languages as the Spirit enables them. Everyone listening - understands them in their own language. What an incredible sight that must have been. Yet - some onlookers mocked (mockers gunna mock), suggesting drunkenness. But Peter stood and proclaimed that this was the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy: "In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people." Then Peter - preached the gospel—Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension.
The Holy Spirit convicted hearts. "What should we do?" the crowd cried. Peter's answer was direct: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
The promise, Peter declared, was for them, their children, and all who are far off—for all whom the Lord will call. That includes us today. Three thousand people were added to the church that day. The same Spirit who fell at Pentecost is the same Spirit who gives gifts today.
Steps to Receive:
How do we receive this power, this fire, this Holy Spirit anointing? Peter's words in Acts 2:38 give us a blueprint:
1. Repent. Change your mind about Jesus, about God, and about sin. Turn from your own way to where? - To Him - His way.
2. Receive. Accept the salvation that comes through Jesus Christ alone—not by works, but by grace through faith.
3. Be Baptized. Make a public declaration that you identify with Christ, with His death, burial, and resurrection. Water baptism doesn't save you, but it's an outward sign of an inward commitment to Christ.
4. Obey. Acts 5:32 says the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey Him. Surrender and submit to the Lord's will. Like Isaiah, say "Send me."
5. Be Thirsty. Jesus said, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink." Are you desperately thirsty for the Holy Spirit's baptism? Not casual, not halfway, but parched-in-the-desert thirsty?
6. Ask. Luke 11:13 promises: "How much more will your Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?" Ask like you desperately need it—because you do.
7. Receive. Mark 11:24 says, "Whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Notice the tense—not "will receive" - sometime in the future - but already - "have received." The moment you've aligned with Christ and ask in faith, it's already yours.
The Confidence We Have:
First John 5:14-15 gives us tremendous confidence: "If we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him."
Is it God's will for you to be saved? Yes.
Is it God’s will that you be sent out? Yes.
Is it His will for you to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit?
Absolutely! He commanded the disciples to tarry in the city until they were clothed with power. It's His desire to clothe us with that same power today. If God said it, He'll do it.
Here Am I, Send Me:
This isn't a formula to check the boxes and mechanically follow. It's a heart posture that sets us in the right direction. Can we say with Isaiah, "Here I am, Lord, send me"? We live in a world that desperately needs the light of Christ in dark places. It is thirsty for truth! We need His gifts, His anointing, His power to be effective witnesses. You can't do it in your own strength. You'll get tired, discouraged, and give up. But when you're filled with the Holy Spirit, you're equipped for service. Rivers of living water flow through you—refreshing you, yes, but more importantly, refreshing others. The power isn't for you (but to sustain you). It's primarily for others. Of course you'll be blessed along the way – there’s no way you cannot be.
So, if you're thirsty, if you need Him to do this thing (to do the doing) because you can't anymore, if you're ready to surrender and say "Lord, take my life"—Holy Spirit fire and His ‘Dunamis’ power will fill you and fill your cup to overflowing – touching others. Now then - in what you do – whatever you are doing – and wherever you go – His presence will set captives free - just like thee. That's His promise in the Word. Don't overthink it. Don't wait. Step out in faith right now and receive what He's freely offering. Follow the steps that I’ve learned - outlined above - and if you’d like someone to pray with you to receive The Holy Spirit – reach out to us here at Hope Christian church and we would be blessed to come into agreement with you and pray for his anointing!
“You have not because you ask not” – just be sure as James also points out … that the motives of your heart are right. (James 4:2-3)
Blessings,
Pastor Bob
There's something really awesome about gathering together in Christian worship—when voices unite, hearts align, and the presence of God is moving – so as to feel the Holy Spirit’s tangible presence in the room. We had such an experience this past Sunday– led by the worship of Dan and Amber Ray and their blessed and beautiful worship team. What an amazing group of talented individuals … it was a beautiful and Holy Anointed Worship! Honoring our Creator - Savior - Way Maker and Guide!
It's in moments like these that we remember that wherever His people gather, He is there. He is with us – many words came forward too on Sunday – but the Word “Home” came forward … spoken by one of the worshippers – Shawn – (on the beat box). Home! – Is wherever God’s people are gathered (in a tent – in a field or in a building)- Home is wherever we are … in Him! – That's church.... Welcome Home!
But what makes us truly effective as witnesses for Christ? What transforms us from mere believers into powerful ambassadors of the Kingdom? The great theologian R.A. Torrey once made a very insightful observation: "It is not the primary purpose of the baptism of the Holy Spirit to make us happy or holy—though certainly He can—but to make us useful for God."
This statement challenges our natural thinking. We often seek spiritual experiences for personal benefit, for the feelings they produce, or for our own spiritual advancement. While those things of course often do happen (you can't help but be blessed - in His blessing through you of others) - the baptism of the Holy Spirit serves a greater primary purpose: to make us powerful witnesses for Jesus Christ for salvation and enduring service.
Acts 1:8 declares: "You shall receive power after the Holy Spirit has come upon you to be my witnesses to the ends of the earth." - This power isn't about us. It's about making Christ known throughout the world. It's God clothing us with His power from on high so we can be useful to Him in His mission field.
The Heart God Seeks
But what kind of person does God choose to use? What kind of heart does He clothe with power? Isaiah chapter 6 provides a pattern. When God asked, "Whom shall I send and who will go for us?" Isaiah responded immediately: "Here am I. Send me." God wasn't wondering if Isaiah would go—He's omniscient - He already knew. But the question was asked for Isaiah's benefit, and for ours too. Our response - reveals what's truly in our hearts. Isaiah's response shows us three stages of his heart: First, he recognized God's absolute holiness. "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty," the angels cried. In the presence of such holiness, Isaiah immediately saw his own unworthiness. Second, God cleansed Isaiah’s sin. "Your guilt is taken away and your sin is atoned for,". God doesn't call the holy—He makes us holy. Today, that cleansing comes through the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. Third, came the call. Only after recognizing God's holiness and receiving cleansing did the call come: "Whom shall I send?" Isaiah's heart - response was immediate - "I'll Go"
This is the pattern for all of us: revelation of God's holiness, cleansing from sin, then the call to service. And if you're called, you need the power of the Holy Spirit. You can't go in your own strength. You'll wear out, flame out, burn out.
Different Gifts, Same Spirit
First Corinthians 12 reminds us that there are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same God at work in all of them. To each one, the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. Not for personal gain. Not for private spiritual euphoria. For the common good—to carry on the mission of Jesus Christ in this world. Different people, different gifts, but one purpose. And Paul uses a crucial word in verse 13: "We were baptized by one Spirit into the body."
The Day Everything Changed
Next Sunday marks Pentecost—the birthday of the church. Acts chapter 2 gives us the first great picture of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Imagine being in that upper room. Suddenly, a sound like a violent wind fills the space. Tongues of fire appear and rest on each person. All are filled with the Holy Spirit and begin speaking in other languages as the Spirit enables them. Everyone listening - understands them in their own language. What an incredible sight that must have been. Yet - some onlookers mocked (mockers gunna mock), suggesting drunkenness. But Peter stood and proclaimed that this was the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy: "In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people." Then Peter - preached the gospel—Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension.
The Holy Spirit convicted hearts. "What should we do?" the crowd cried. Peter's answer was direct: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
The promise, Peter declared, was for them, their children, and all who are far off—for all whom the Lord will call. That includes us today. Three thousand people were added to the church that day. The same Spirit who fell at Pentecost is the same Spirit who gives gifts today.
Steps to Receive:
How do we receive this power, this fire, this Holy Spirit anointing? Peter's words in Acts 2:38 give us a blueprint:
1. Repent. Change your mind about Jesus, about God, and about sin. Turn from your own way to where? - To Him - His way.
2. Receive. Accept the salvation that comes through Jesus Christ alone—not by works, but by grace through faith.
3. Be Baptized. Make a public declaration that you identify with Christ, with His death, burial, and resurrection. Water baptism doesn't save you, but it's an outward sign of an inward commitment to Christ.
4. Obey. Acts 5:32 says the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey Him. Surrender and submit to the Lord's will. Like Isaiah, say "Send me."
5. Be Thirsty. Jesus said, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink." Are you desperately thirsty for the Holy Spirit's baptism? Not casual, not halfway, but parched-in-the-desert thirsty?
6. Ask. Luke 11:13 promises: "How much more will your Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?" Ask like you desperately need it—because you do.
7. Receive. Mark 11:24 says, "Whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Notice the tense—not "will receive" - sometime in the future - but already - "have received." The moment you've aligned with Christ and ask in faith, it's already yours.
The Confidence We Have:
First John 5:14-15 gives us tremendous confidence: "If we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him."
Is it God's will for you to be saved? Yes.
Is it God’s will that you be sent out? Yes.
Is it His will for you to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit?
Absolutely! He commanded the disciples to tarry in the city until they were clothed with power. It's His desire to clothe us with that same power today. If God said it, He'll do it.
Here Am I, Send Me:
This isn't a formula to check the boxes and mechanically follow. It's a heart posture that sets us in the right direction. Can we say with Isaiah, "Here I am, Lord, send me"? We live in a world that desperately needs the light of Christ in dark places. It is thirsty for truth! We need His gifts, His anointing, His power to be effective witnesses. You can't do it in your own strength. You'll get tired, discouraged, and give up. But when you're filled with the Holy Spirit, you're equipped for service. Rivers of living water flow through you—refreshing you, yes, but more importantly, refreshing others. The power isn't for you (but to sustain you). It's primarily for others. Of course you'll be blessed along the way – there’s no way you cannot be.
So, if you're thirsty, if you need Him to do this thing (to do the doing) because you can't anymore, if you're ready to surrender and say "Lord, take my life"—Holy Spirit fire and His ‘Dunamis’ power will fill you and fill your cup to overflowing – touching others. Now then - in what you do – whatever you are doing – and wherever you go – His presence will set captives free - just like thee. That's His promise in the Word. Don't overthink it. Don't wait. Step out in faith right now and receive what He's freely offering. Follow the steps that I’ve learned - outlined above - and if you’d like someone to pray with you to receive The Holy Spirit – reach out to us here at Hope Christian church and we would be blessed to come into agreement with you and pray for his anointing!
“You have not because you ask not” – just be sure as James also points out … that the motives of your heart are right. (James 4:2-3)
Blessings,
Pastor Bob
HOPE Blog ... Pastor Bob DeFelice
Sometimes random - sometimes not - some things I think - measured against scripture.
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
~ 2 Timothy 2:15
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
~ 2 Timothy 2:15
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