The filling of the Spirit is not to be confused with the indwelling of the Spirit. These are two distinct and different aspects of the ministry of the Holy Spirit. The filling of the Spirit always has to do with His control in our lives. While the indwelling is a once for all act in which He takes up residence in our lives upon the exercise of saving faith, the filling of the Spirit is an oft repeated submission of the will to His control. The filling is a daily endeavor in which the believer relinqueshes the reigns of his/her life into the hands of the Lord. This filling is conditional:
I. The Filling Requires a Dedicated Life - although commanded it is a voluntary act
A. The initial dedication - Rom. 12:1-2
B. The continual dedication - Rom. 8:14
II. The Filling Manifests an Undefeated Life
A. The believer experiences victory over sin in daily experience - Eph. 4:30
B. The believer appropriates promises given in regards to temptation - 1 Cor. 10:13
III. The Filling Necessitates a Dependent Life - Gal. 5:16
A. Nurturing close fellowship with the Spirit
B. Exercising disciplined control over the flesh
Results of the Spirit’s Filling:
1) A portrait of Christlike character is developed - Gal. 5:22-23
2) A life of worship and praise is cultivated - Eph. 5:18-20
3) An attitude of submissiveness is manifest - Eph. 5:21
4)An example of service is promoted - John 7:37-39
