There are many different ways to describe the experience of being "saved" in terms that the Bible uses. For example in John 3:3 it is referred to as being "born again"; in Matt.18:3 as "conversion;" in Mark 16:16 as "believing and being baptized"; in Col. 2:13 as having been "forgiven" of all trespasses; in Rom. 6:23 as having received "eternal life"; and in Rom. 8:9 as having received "the Spirit of Christ." Although many terms are used, they all basically mean the same thing.
In like manner, the experience which is subsequent to and distinct from salvation is described as: "the baptism with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 1:5); being "filled with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:4); "the Holy Spirit falling on" someone (Acts 11:15); and having "received the Holy Spirit" (Acts 19:2). These are synonymous terms referring to one and the same thing.
There are many examples in the New Testament of the difference between salvation by the quickening of the Spirit, and the Baptism with the Holy Spirit. For example: In John 20:22, Jesus' disciples received the Holy Spirit but a few days later were actually baptized with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4). The Samaritans, in Acts 8:12, believed upon Christ and were baptized and saved, yet were baptized with the Holy Spirit several days later (See Acts 8:16-17). In Acts 19:1-7, the apostle Paul found several disciples who had believed upon Christ, but had not received the baptism with the Holy Spirit. Verse 6 states that "...when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied."
Dr. R. A.Torrey, the first president of Moody Bible Institute, wrote: "It is evident that the baptism with the Holy Spirit is an operation of the Holy Spirit distinct from and additional to His regenerating work...A man may be regenerated by the Holy Spirit and still not be baptized with the Holy Spirit. In regeneration, there is the impartation of life by the Spirit's power, and the one who receives it is saved: in the baptism with the Holy Spirit, there is the impartation of power, and the one who receives it is fitted for service...(The Person & Work of the Holy Spirit, by R. A.Torrey, pgs.174, 176).
Now that you've received Jesus as Lord, Master and Ruler of your life, are you willing to receive what He has for you? Do you believe this promise is valid for you today? (If not, read Acts 2:38-39 and 1 Cor. 1:7, which states that the Holy Spirit and His gifts are all valid and in operation for us today until the second coming of Jesus Christ). Do you need power to witness? (Acts 1:8 states that you "shall receive power, after the Holy Ghost is come upon you). Are you afraid of manifestations of the Holy Spirit such as tongues? Mark 16:17 says, "These signs shall follow them that believe; they shall speak with new tongues..." Do you believe this is for you? Jesus said, "If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?"
Will you pray and ask Jesus to do His part by baptizing you with the Holy Spirit? Will you do your part, that is, receive the Holy Spirit and speak in tongues? Acts 2:4 says "they spoke...as the Spirit gave them utterance."
Are you going to RECEIVE? Are you going to SPEAK and worship God in another language?
Are you ready to receive? Then pray this prayer with me: "Father, thank you that Jesus died for all my sins and arose from the dead. I renounce Satan and all his works. I confess that Jesus Christ is my Lord, Master, and the Boss of my life. My life belongs to Him. Lord, you promised to baptize me with the Holy Spirit. I will receive power to witness and speak in new tongues. Lord baptize me now and I will speak with new tongues as you form the words for me now. Lord, I worship you now in other tongues..."
Friend, Receive ye the Holy Spirit! If we can help you, write us at WJoKrow@aol.com
Tract No. 23 by Don Krow
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