EmpoweredSýnishorn

EMPOWERED THROUGH HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM

Study Passage: Acts 2:1-47 NIV

When the Day of Pentecost came, Jesus poured out the Holy Spirit upon His disciples. They were filled with the Holy Spirit, and as a result, they spoke in tongues and preached the gospel with boldness. This was the first instance of believers being empowered through the Holy Spirit's Baptism to fulfil God’s mission.

1. What is Holy Spirit Baptism? Holy Spirit Baptism is a powerful experience distinct from salvation, where Jesus immerses a believer in the Holy Spirit. This experience equips and energises the believer to fulfil God’s work in supernatural ways, such as speaking in tongues, prophesying, or operating in spiritual gifts.
   Example: Think about someone like D.L. Moody, a well-known evangelist who, after experiencing Holy Spirit Baptism, saw a dramatic increase in the effectiveness of his ministry. He went from having a good ministry to one that was extraordinarily powerful, with thousands coming to Christ.
2. Evidence of Holy Spirit Baptism:
   Speaking in Tongues: Just as the disciples spoke in languages they didn’t know (Acts 2:7-12), one common evidence of Holy Spirit Baptism today is speaking in tongues. This can be a personal prayer language or a message for others in a congregation. In a prayer meeting, you might suddenly feel an urge to pray in a language you don’t know. This could be the Holy Spirit giving you utterance, much like what happened on the Day of Pentecost.
   
   Boldness in Preaching. Peter, who had denied Jesus three times out of fear, suddenly became bold after being filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:14-39). He preached with such conviction that about 3,000 people were saved in one day. You might have been shy about sharing your faith at work, but after receiving the Holy Spirit's power, you find yourself courageously sharing the gospel with colleagues.
   
3. Who Qualifies for Holy Spirit Baptism?
   Qualification. The promise of the Holy Spirit is available to all believers. Acts 2:38-39 makes it clear that this gift is for everyone who has repented and placed their faith in Jesus, regardless of age, gender, or background. Whether you’ve been a Christian for one day or fifty years, the Holy Spirit is available to you. Even young believers can experience Holy Spirit Baptism, just like the youth in a revival service who start prophesying or speaking in tongues.
   
4. Purpose of Holy Spirit Baptism:
   Empowerment for Witnessing. The Holy Spirit doesn’t empower us for our own sake but to testify about Jesus. The primary purpose is to enable us to be effective witnesses, leading others to Christ. When you share your testimony or pray for someone’s healing, and they experience God’s power, this often opens the door for you to share the gospel. Miracles, signs, and wonders are tools God uses to draw people to Himself, not ends in themselves.
   

Reflection

1. Have you experienced Holy Spirit Baptism? If not, are you willing to ask Jesus to fill you with His Spirit today? If you haven’t experienced Holy Spirit Baptism, think about a time when you felt a deep hunger for more of God in your life. This is the perfect moment to ask Jesus to baptise you in the Holy Spirit. Perhaps you’re at a crossroads in your faith, longing for a deeper experience. This is your invitation to receive more of God’s power.
2. In what ways can you step out of your comfort zone to testify about Jesus this week? If you’ve been hesitant to share your faith with a neighbour or co-worker, consider making a simple gesture, like inviting them to church or offering to pray for them in a challenging situation. Taking a small step of faith, like standing up for biblical values in a conversation, can be a powerful testimony of your faith in Jesus.
3. How can you position yourself to be empowered by the Holy Spirit in your daily life? Consider setting aside time each day to pray specifically for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. You might start by asking God to fill you afresh with His Spirit each morning or by committing to share your faith with at least one person each week. By making yourself available to God, you’re positioning yourself to receive His empowerment.

Prayer:

Lord, I stand in awe of Your deeds and ask that You do it again in my life. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I can testify about Jesus with boldness and power. Empower me to step out of my comfort zone and be a witness for You in my community. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Challenge: Take a step of faith this week. Whether it's sharing your testimony, praying for someone in need, or standing up for your faith, do something that requires you to depend on the Holy Spirit's power.