The Baptism of the Holy Spirit

One of the most powerful and life-changing experiences in a believer’s life is the baptism of the Holy Spirit. This isn’t just a theological concept or a historical event—it’s a living reality that Jesus promised to every believer.

Many Christians today wonder, Is the baptism of the Holy Spirit still for me? Some believe it was only for the early church. But Scripture makes it clear that this gift is for all believers, even today!

Before returning to heaven, Jesus gave His disciples a crucial promise: 8 "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8 NKJV)

Notice that Jesus didn’t say, "You might receive power," or "Some of you will." No—He said, "You shall receive power." This promise wasn't just for the disciples—it’s for every follower of Christ!

We are going to explore:

1. The Promise of the Holy Spirit
2. The Purpose of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit
3. Receiving the Holy Spirit Today

As we dive into this message, I encourage you to open your heart and expect God to move.
• I. The Promise of the Holy Spirit

A. Jesus Promised the Holy Spirit
Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He gave His disciples clear instructions: "Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high." (Luke 24:49 NKJV)

Jesus could have sent them out immediately after His resurrection, but He told them to wait for something—actually, for Someone. Why? Because to fulfill their mission, they first needed to be empowered by the Holy Spirit.

B. Fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost
That promise was fulfilled ten days later on the Day of Pentecost: "And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:4 NKJV)

The baptism of the Holy Spirit came with divine power, boldness, and the evidence of speaking in tongues. This was not just an emotional moment—it was an empowerment for service.

C. The Gift Is for Every Believer
Some argue that the baptism of the Holy Spirit was only for the early apostles, but the Bible teaches otherwise: "For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call." (Acts 2:39 NKJV)

If you are saved, this promise is for you! The Holy Spirit’s baptism is not just an ancient experience—it is an ongoing gift available to every believer today.
• II. The Purpose of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit

A. Power to Be Witnesses
Why do we need the Holy Spirit's baptism? Jesus explained it clearly: "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me." (Acts 1:8 NKJV)

The Holy Spirit equips and empowers believers to be witnesses boldly and effectively. Without His power, some shrink back in fear. But once the disciples were filled, they spoke boldly and performed miracles.

B. Boldness and Spiritual Gifts
The baptism of the Holy Spirit opens the door for the operation of spiritual gifts:  "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all." (1 Corinthians 12:7 NKJV)

These gifts—prophecy, healing, miracles, tongues—are not for personal entertainment but for building up the church and demonstrating the power of God.

C. A Deeper Relationship with God
The Holy Spirit deepens intimacy with God, even affecting how we pray: "Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Romans 8:26 NKJV)

Have you ever felt lost for words in prayer? The Holy Spirit prays through us when we don’t know what to say, bringing deeper communion with God.
• III. Receiving the Holy Spirit Today

A. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit Is a Gift
Some think they need to earn this gift, but the Bible says otherwise. Jesus makes it clear:

11 "If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish?
13 If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!" (Luke 11:11,13 NKJV)

If God is willing—even eager—to give us the Holy Spirit, we should feel confident in asking!

B. Steps to Receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit

1. Desire the Gift – Have a hunger for the fullness of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 5:6)
2. Ask in Faith – Boldly ask God to fill you. (Luke 11:9-13)
3. Surrender Completely – Yield to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
4. Receive by Faith – Trust that God will baptize you in His timing.
5. Speak as the Spirit Leads – Open your mouth in faith and allow the Holy Spirit to give utterance (Acts 2:4).

The Overflowing Glass
Imagine a glass filled with water. Salvation is like receiving water in the glass—we get the Spirit when we believe in Jesus (John 7:38-39).

But the baptism of the Holy Spirit is like filling the glass to the brim and letting it overflow. The Spirit is no longer just in us—He is flowing through us with power!
• Conclusion & Call to Receive the Holy Spirit

The baptism of the Holy Spirit is not an optional experience—it is a divinely ordained empowerment for every believer. If you have not received this gift, today is your moment to ask and believe.

Will you open your heart and receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit today?

Prayer to Receive the Holy Spirit

"Heavenly Father, I come before You today with a desire to be filled with Your Holy Spirit. I believe that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is Your promise for me. Jesus, You said that those who ask will receive, so I ask You right now—fill me with the power of Your Spirit. Baptize me, Lord, and overflow in my life. I surrender every part of me to You. I receive this gift by faith, and I open my heart to speak as the Spirit gives utterance. Thank You, Lord, for filling me right now! In Jesus’ name, Amen."_

If you prayed this prayer, begin worshiping God, trust Him, and let the Spirit fill you! The baptism of the Holy Spirit is yours—receive it by faith today!

-Pastor Roy Edwards