Title: EVIDENCE OF THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Acts 2:1-4
"And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."
Supporting Texts:
Acts 10:44-46
Acts 19:1-6
1 Corinthians 12:7-11
Galatians 5:22-23
INTRODUCTION:
The baptism in the Holy Spirit is an empowering experience available to all believers after salvation. This baptism brings evidence that confirms the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and God’s power working within a believer. Recognising the signs and evidence of the Holy Spirit’s baptism is important for Christian growth and understanding of one’s spiritual gifts. This study will explore the biblical signs and fruits that demonstrate the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
1. SPEAKING IN TONGUES AS INITIAL EVIDENCE
Speaking in tongues is often seen as the first evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. It was a common occurrence among the early believers as they received the Holy Spirit.
a) The Day of Pentecost
On the Day of Pentecost, believers spoke in tongues as a sign of receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4).
b) Cornelius’ Household
When the Holy Spirit fell on Cornelius' household, they spoke in tongues, confirming their baptism (Acts 10:44-46).
c) Ephesus Encounter
Paul laid hands on disciples in Ephesus, and they spoke in tongues (Acts 19:6).
d) Tongues as a Sign to Believers
Speaking in tongues is an external sign that signifies an inner spiritual change (Mark 16:17).
Biblical Example:
The 120 disciples in the upper room spoke in various languages as the Holy Spirit enabled them (Acts 2:4-6).
2. MANIFESTATION OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS
The baptism in the Holy Spirit often leads to the development and activation of spiritual gifts, empowering believers for ministry and edification of the church.
a) Gifts of Revelation
Gifts like wisdom and knowledge reveal the Spirit's presence (1 Corinthians 12:8).
b) Gifts of Power
Miracles, healing, and faith are gifts that demonstrate the Holy Spirit’s power (1 Corinthians 12:9-10).
c) Gifts of Inspiration
Prophecy and interpretation of tongues uplift and encourage the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:10).
d) Purpose of Spiritual Gifts
Gifts are given to edify the Church and strengthen believers (1 Corinthians 12:7).
Biblical Example:
Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, performed miracles and boldly preached the gospel (Acts 6:8).
3. BOLDNESS AND EMPOWERMENT FOR WITNESSING
One key evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit is newfound courage and zeal to witness about Christ to others, even in the face of opposition.
a) Boldness in Preaching
Peter, after receiving the Spirit, preached boldly and thousands were converted (Acts 2:14-41).
b) Courage in Persecution
Early Christians, filled with the Holy Spirit, faced persecution with faith (Acts 4:31).
c) Willingness to Witness
The Spirit’s baptism fills believers with a desire to share the gospel (Acts 1:8).
d) Clarity in Proclamation
Empowered by the Spirit, believers share the Word effectively (1 Corinthians 2:4).
Biblical Example:
Paul’s preaching became more powerful and effective after his baptism in the Spirit (Acts 9:17-20).
4. THE FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT
The presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life should also produce spiritual fruits, marking genuine transformation and maturity.
a) Love and Joy
The Spirit enables believers to love and have joy despite challenges (Galatians 5:22).
b) Peace and Patience
The Spirit brings a sense of peace and patience in all situations (Galatians 5:22).
c) Kindness and Goodness
The Holy Spirit fosters kindness and goodness in our dealings with others (Galatians 5:22).
d) Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-control
The Spirit empowers believers to exhibit consistent faith and discipline (Galatians 5:23).
Biblical Example:
The early church displayed love, generosity, and unity, evident fruits of the Spirit’s work among them (Acts 4:32-35).
5. TRANSFORMED LIFE AND HOLINESS
The Holy Spirit’s baptism results in a renewed heart and lifestyle, as believers seek to live holy and set apart for God.
a) Freedom from Sin
The Holy Spirit helps believers overcome sinful habits (Romans 8:13).
b) Commitment to Righteousness
Those filled with the Spirit pursue righteous living (Titus 2:12).
c) Desire for Holiness
A Spirit-filled believer strives for purity in thoughts and actions (1 Peter 1:15-16).
d) Obedience to God’s Will
Baptized in the Spirit, believers surrender more to God’s guidance (Galatians 5:16-18).
Biblical Example:
The Apostle Paul’s life was transformed after his encounter with the Holy Spirit, marking a new life dedicated to Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).
CONCLUSION:
The baptism in the Holy Spirit is marked by both outward and inward signs. From speaking in tongues to displaying the fruits of the Spirit, these evidences reflect the Holy Spirit's transformative power in our lives. As believers, we are encouraged to seek this baptism and allow the Holy Spirit to work through us, making us effective witnesses for Christ. Let us remain open and receptive to the Holy Spirit, that our lives may be a testimony of His power.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, fill me with Your Spirit and manifest Your power in my life.
2. Father, help me to yield to the Holy Spirit daily.
3. Holy Spirit, activate Your gifts within me for service.
4. Lord, let my life bear the fruits of the Spirit consistently.
5. Father, grant me boldness to witness for Christ.
6. Holy Spirit, transform every area of my life to reflect Jesus.
7. Lord, help me to grow in holiness and righteousness.
8. Father, empower me to overcome every form of sin.
9. Lord, fill me with Your love, patience, and kindness.
10. Holy Spirit, lead me in all my ways and decisions.
