A Crucial Concept Of Christianity

The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is essential to maximizing the Christian life.

I. Relationship with God is always the main thing. Acts 1:6-8

A. You were created to be in relationship with God and that is what He wants most.

B. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is a crucial part of your relationship with God.

II. Baptism in the Holy Spirit makes a difference. Acts 2:14-40

A. What is the baptism in the Holy Spirit?

1. A gift from God.

a. The ability to be a bold witness of Jesus.

b. Help to live a holy life.

c. An experience of God that makes Jesus very real and precious.

2. What is the difference between being saved and being filled with the Spirit?

a. You have to be born again by the Spirit first.

b. Being filled with the Holy Spirit is distinct from and subsequent to new birth.

3. Why use the word “baptism.”

a. Because it is what Scripture uses.

b. The root word “bapto” means “to dip in or under/immerse.” The word “bapto” was often used for dyeing cloth where it was necessary to totally immerse the fabric in the dye.

B. Peter was radically changed by the baptism in the Holy Spirit.

C. Your life was designed to function at peak performance when filled with the Holy Spirit.

III. Everyone is eligible for the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:17, 39

A. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is a vital experience for all Christians.

1. The conditions for being filled:

a. Be a Christian.

b. Have faith.

2. How do you know you have been filled with the Holy Spirit?

a. The initial evidence of being filled with the Holy Spirit is speaking in tongues.

b. Speaking in tongues is a heavenly language understood only by God. There are at least four uses of unknown tongues in the New Testament:

i. The initial evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:4

ii. A gift to edify the church when tongues are interpreted. 1 Cor. 12:10

iii. A sign to unbelievers that they may believe. 1 Cor. 14:22

iv. A God-given provision for prayer and praise. 1 Cor. 14:2, 14

B. To receive the Holy Spirit, all you have to do is ask!

C. You have to exercise faith to receive. (He won’t move your mouth!)

D. Once filled, it is your job to exercise your gift. (Muscle illustration.)