The Old Testament prophets continually foretold the gathering again of the Jews to their land. However, the Romans dispersed the Jews from their land and destroyed the city of Jerusalem. Jesus foretold this to His disciples. In Luke 49:41-44, Jesus told of the coming destruction of the city of Jerusalem.
Luke 49:41-44 And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.
Jerusalem: Jewish Pivotal point
Jerusalem was the center of activity for the Jews, the center of their religion because the Temple was there.
Jerusalem was also the center of commerce.
Jesus Wept over Jerusalem
When Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem just before He was arrested. He stopped and wept over Jerusalem and said:
Matthew 23:37-38 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.
Jerusalem Destroyed by the Armies of Titus
After the death of Jesus, the Jews revolted against Roman rule.
In the year 70 A.D., General Titus and the Roman army laid siege to the city of Jerusalem.
The people of Jerusalem would not feel the strong might of the Roman Empire.
The city was destroyed because:
The was God’s judgment for their sin.
The Romans wanted to stamp out the Jewish religion.
The Romans wanted to destroy the Jewish nation.
The destruction was quite a feat itself.
The historian Josephus said that some of the stones were 94 feet long, 10.5 feet tall, and 13 feet thick.
Jesus had said:
Matthew 24:2 And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
Paul was a chosen vessel (Acts9:15). His mission was to bear the name of the Lord before the Gentiles, kings, and Israelites. Paul took three missionary journeys: Thessalonica, Berea, and then Athens. In Acts 17, Paul preached in Thessalonica and Berea, and then Athens.
Paul on Mar’s Hill
Mar’s Hill: Strong’s G697 – areios pagos
†Ἄρειος ΠάγοςÁreios Págos, ar’-i-os pag’-os; from Ἄρης Árēs (the name of the Greek deity of war) and a derivative of G4078; rock of Ares, a place in Athens:—Areopagus, Mars’ Hill.
His discussions were with the philosophers of Athens.
Acts 17:18-19 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection. And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?
Paul preached to the Athenians about their altar with the dedication to the unknown god.
Acts 17:22 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, To The Unknown God. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.
Notice that he started with something that they knew about and then explained things from that starting point.
Paul preached the message of one God who is self-existing, the giver and supported of life.
Acts 17:24-26 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
He explained that everyone could find the Lord.
Acts 17:27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
Jeremiah 29:13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Paul declared that God tolerated the foolishness of people for a while, but not anymore.
Acts 17:30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
Paul explained that judgement would come by Jesus, who rose from the dead.
Acts 17:31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
Some mocked Paul, some wanted to hear more about it, and others believed.
Acts 17:32-34 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, “We will hear thee again of this matter“. So Paul departed from among them. Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
Paul in Prison writing Epistles
An important part of Paul’s ministry was writing letters (Epistles) of instructions to the various churches.
Paul wrote some of them while in prison and awaiting trial.
While imprisoned, Paul witnessed to many of the guards and visitors.
Paul was finally put to death.
2 Timothy 4:6-8 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
The Gospel spread from Jerusalem, Judaea, and Samaria to the uttermost parts of the eath.
Acts 10 records a new turn in the history of the church.
Before chapter 10, the apostles preached only to the Jews.
But now the door is open to the Gentiles as well.
God had always intended on the door to be open to the Gentiles as well.
Isaiah 42:1-6 Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street. A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth. He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law. Thus saith God the Lord, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein: I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;
Isaiah 49:6 And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.
Gentile means
a Greek either by nationality, whether a native of the main land or of the Greek islands or colonies
in a wider sense the name embraces all nations not Jews that made the language, customs, and learning of the Greeks their own; the primary reference is to a difference of religion and worship
גּוֹיgôwy, go’-ee; rarely (shortened) גֹּי gôy; apparently from the same root as H1465 (in the sense of massing); a foreign nation; hence, a Gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts:—Gentile, heathen, nation, people.
Cornelius and the Angel
Cornelius, a centurion in the Roman army, was a moral man, generous to the poor, feared God, and was faithful in prayer.
He saw a vision, and an angel of God told him to send to Joppa for a man called Peter who would tell him what to do to be saved.
Acts 10:1-6 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.
Acts 11:13-14 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.
Peter on the Rooftop
God was preparing Peter for a ministry to the Gentiles, whom the Jews thought were unclean.
At this time, the messengers sent from Cornelius arrived.
Peter learns and declares that God is no respecter of persons.
Acts 10:34-35 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
Gentiles Receive the Holy Ghost
As Peter preached to Cornelius and his household, the Holy Ghost fell upon them, then Peter commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.
Acts 10:44-48 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
The church was growing so fast, they had as start sharing responsibilities. They were not spending enough time in prayer, preaching, and teaching the Word of God. Seven men were chosen, one was Stephen.
Stephen’s Qualifications
Stephen was full of “faith and power”
Acts 6:8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
He not only did what God wanted him to do, but he looked for other opportunities to serve.
He was so successful that he was picked as a target by the enemies of the church.
Stephen on Trial
Stephen’s opponents were no match for his wisdom and spirit.
Acts 6:10 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.
They hired false witnesses to testify against him.
Acts 6:13 And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:
This is similar to what they did against Jesus.
Mark 14:55 And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none. For many bare false witness against him, but their witness agreed not together. And there arose certain, and bare false witness against him, saying, We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands. But neither so did their witness agree together.
Stephen Preaches and Dies
Men testified against Stephen, but they could not change his character.
The Jewish leaders became alarmed when they saw his shining face as an angel.
He preached about the way God dealt with Israel in the Old Testament.
He preached truths they could not contradict.
He finished up by proclaiming that his listeners had betrayed and slain the Son of God.
In anger, they cast him out of the city and stoned him to death.
Acts 7:57-60 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
One of the leaders of the persecution was Saul of Tarsus, who was a witness of and gave consent to have Stephen killed
As a result of the persecution, the truth spread into all of Judea and Samaria and into all the world.
Saul’s Part
Chapter 9 of The Book of Acts describes the conversion of Saul who became known as Paul.
Paul is a key figure in the New Testament.
Saul the Persecutor
When the Jewish leaders had stoned Stephen to death, Saul was in agreement with their actions
Saul launched an all-out persecution of the church.
Acts 8:3 (KJV) As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison
Hale: to compel to go
Saul on the Damascus Road
On the way to Damascus, a bright light from heaven shone around Paul; then be heard a voice.
Paul had an encounter with Jesus and was fully persuaded to surrender to Him.
Acts 9:2-9 (KJV) And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.
3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:
4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.
7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.
8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.
9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.
Paul’s life was never the same from that point on.
It is the same with our conversion to Jesus:
Saul Receives His Sight
Saul was blinded by what he saw.
He was led to Damascus where the Lord sent him for further instructions, telling him he would find help there.
After Paul prayed and fasted for three days, the Lord sent a messenger to him.
A disciple named Ananias visited Saul, laid hands on him, and prayed,
Immediately, Saul received his sight and was filled with the Holy Ghost and Ananias baptized Paul.
Acts 9:17-18 (KJV) And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.
Paul received both physical and spiritual sight that day.
Acts 9:19-21 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?
Luke, in A.D. 63, wrote the book of Acts of the Apostles. This book records the birth, and inauguration of the New Testament church.
The church became a dynamic organism.
They proclaimed, with the anointing of the Holy Ghost, the purpose of God manifested through the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ.
2 Peter 1:16 (KJV) For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty
FELLOWSHIP
Apostles’ Teaching (Matthew 28:20; Acts 2:42)
We need the Word of God to live by.
Matthew 28:20 (KJV) Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Romans 10:17 (KJV) So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Fellowship of the Church
A phrase that describes the life of the early church is steadfast.
Acts 2:42-44 (KJV) And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
We are to first fellowship with Jesus Christ
1 John 1:3 (KJV) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ
Breaking Bread from House to House
Witnesses told everyone about what God was doing in their day.
They went from house-to-house sharing the gospel.
Acts 20:20 (KJV) And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have showed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,
Prayer
After the outpouring of the Holy Ghost the church kept praying.
Because of prayer, God gave the church favor with all the people and added to it daily.
Acts 2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
THE FIRST MIRACLE OF THE CHURCH
The first miracle performed after the ascension of Jesus was the healing of the lame man.
Acts 3:6-8 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God:
The miracle produced evidence that the power of Christ was upon His followers.
As a result of the healing, people gathered Peter preached his second sermon, and many believed, more souls were added.
This second sermon is recorded in Acts 3:12-26
After the initial outpouring of the Holy Ghost, 3,000 more souls were added
After this miracle many more were added, 5,000
Acts 4:4Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.
THE GIVING SPIRIT OF THE CHURCH
There was a singleness of devotion and dedication of the early church.
They were God-centered and had a concerned with one another’s needs.
Acts 4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
The Lord’s Stewards
As stewards of the Lord’s blessings, those who prospered materially shared with others that had needs
Acts 4:34-35 (KJV) Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.
Barnabas Shows the Way
Barnabas was a Levite.
Acts 4:36 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,
He gave money after selling some land.
Acts 4:37 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
He uplifted and inspired many of the churches in his ministry and encouraged the apostolic circle to receive Paul as a fellow preacher.
Acts 9:26-28 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.
Acts 11:25-26 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
Acts 131-4 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
Beauty of Holiness If someone could visualize their journey through life, they would see two roads. These roads symbolize the paths of life and death. One road brings blessings, while the other leads to a curse.
Proverbs 14:12 (KJV) There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
Deuteronomy 30:19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore, choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:
THE JOURNEY OF LIFE God desires that we enjoy an abundant and exciting life as we travel towards eternity. Moses chose the highway of holiness rather than an adventure in pleasures of a season.
Hebrews 11:25 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
God enables each of us to be changed more into the image of Jesus as we conquer the sinful nature
2 Corinthians 4:4 (KJV) In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
The image of God can only be reflected by the Spirit of God working in His people
1 Peter 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.
Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Hebrews 12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
A Beautiful Way of Life Holiness is a beautiful way of life that guarantees God’s protection and blessings from the major enemies of the soul. To sin is to miss the mark, or the purpose which God created us
Psalms 29:2 Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.
PERFECTING HOLINESS When God fills a person with His Holy Spirit, he receives a holy nature. Holiness does come from human works but from God’s Holy Spirit.
Romans 8:16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
John 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
A person must yield to the Holy Spirit
Psalms 101:3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil
If we do, God has promised us
2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV) Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new
Growing in the Lord
As the new person grows in the knowledge of the will of God, he will also grow in his ability to recognize activities and attitudes that may endanger his new life with Christ.
The Christian life is not governed totally by the question of whether or not something is sin but if it will damage the image of Christ.
The question is not: What do I have to do?
It is now:
What does Jesus want me to do?
How can I please Him, how can I draw closer to Him?
How can I become more like Him?
The Concerned Christ Christ does not force His love on anyone. He wants a chance to show what a great God He is. He will create a new heart to all who respond to Him.
Jesus does not want any of us to perish.
Even angels do not understand salvation
Peter 1:12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
John 3:15-16 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
It is exciting to witness the miraculous manifestations of God, but the greatest miracle is to experience the life changing transformation by the new birth experience. Jesus warned His followers not to rejoice that they had power over spirits, but rather rejoice because they were saved. Luke 10:20 Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. The Lord is obviously more concerned with salvation than other miracles.
The Greatest Work
Jesus gave use a promise that we would do greater works.
These works were to be done after His journey to Calvary.
John 14:12-14 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.
Jesus Brings Change Jesus brought transformation through His teachings. Everything He shared and the love and compassion He showed were meant to direct people toward the power of God. His mission was to fill the hearts and souls of humanity with the joys of heaven and the life of God.
Jesus Brings Victory Jesus offers victory over satanic forces, human weaknesses, and struggles of life. He paid the penalty of sin and removed the curse of sin by giving His own life.
John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
1 John 5:4-5 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?
1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
The Three Enemies of Humanity
Devil
The World with its ungodly lusts
Flesh
Hebrews 2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;
1 John 2:16For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
Two of our enemies exist outside us: the devil and the world. However, the most formidable enemy lies within.
Mark 7:21-23 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.
The Holy Ghost helps us to conquer the fleshly nature.
James 4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Romans 8:7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.
Ephesians 2:16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:
THE WORKS OF THE FLESH THE OLD MAN Sin comes from the carnal sinful nature.
Galatians 5:19-21Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
When left to itself the heart is capable of unbelievable evils. Through the carnal mind, it is impossible to please God.
For this reason, God gives us a new nature.
1 Corinthian 6:17 But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.
A new mind
1 Corinthians 2:16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? but we have the mind of Christ.
A new heart
Ezekial 36:26-27 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
A new inward man
Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
A new life
Romans 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Putting off the old man
Ephesians 4:22-24 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
The natural man cannot understand God
1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
Nor can he live holy before God
Romans 8.5-8 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh, but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be, So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
Can sweet water come from a bitter spring?
James 3:11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?
THE WORKS OF THE SPIRIT THE NEW MAN This new man, God has given many promises. The old man was associated with the curse of sin. Since actions flow directly from the heart, it was necessary that God create in man a new heart with new characteristics.
Luke 6:45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
The heart cannot be trusted.
Jeremiah 17:9-10 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.
David never dreamed that he had murder in his heart. He found out to late. He asked God to search his heart.
Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
The reasoning of the heart, human logic, and philosophy of this world cannot discover the things of God with the illumination of His spirit.
Corinthians 2:11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God
The Fruit of the Spirit When the Spirit of God lives in a person’s heart, the Spirit will produce fruit.
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
It is great to see the old man transformed into the new man.
Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Abundant Life Jesus said: Out of a man’s mouth a man speaks what is in his heart.
Luke 6:43-45 For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
God’s Aim for His people It is God’s will and aim to bring forth good fruit from His People.
John 15:8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
We must overcome the sinful nature
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
The sinful nature will oppose God’s work. The Christian has a dual nature, the nature of God and the sinful nature of the flesh.
Galatians 4:29 But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.
He promises forgiveness and strength if we confess and repent
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Hebrews 4:15-16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Paul’s Advice
Romans 6:12-13 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
The outpouring of God’s spirit molded together a spiritual body (group of believers scripturally defined as the New Testament church.
Ephesians 1:22-23 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Supernatural manifestations of the Spirit occurred, commonly referred to as gifts of the Spirit. By supernatural, we mean something that cannot be explained or understood by human reasoning. Do not limit God to our understanding.
Isaiah 58:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts
Similarly, the same book that teaches about the use of spiritual gifts states:
Corinthians 2:11 (KJV) For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God
THE GIFTS ARE TO PROFIT THE CHURCH
The spiritual gifts are given by God to His church to profit the church and its members.
1 Corinthians 12:4-7 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
There are those today who contend that the church can no longer experience these gifts. There is nothing in scriptures that says so. To the contrary, the gifts will remain in the church until Christ’s second coming.
1 Corinthians 1:2 Unto the church of God, which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:
1 Corinthians 1:7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:
There are also those who over emphasis some Spiritual Gifts to the ignoring of the other Spiritual Gifts. Neither is correct. All gifts are needs; just as all people are needed. The human body has many members, such as hands, fingers, etc. So also, is the body of Christ. There are many members of one body, and all are important.
1 Corinthians 12: 20-22 But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
The difference between the Gifts and the Fruit of the Spirit ➤ The gifts of the Spirit are not to be confused with the fruit of the Spirit. ➤ The fruit of the Spirit is spiritual grace in the character of the believer. ➤ The gifts of the Spirit are divine enablements to strengthen and encourage the church.
Great Care in Their Operation
Care must be taken in the operation of the gifts.
The Corinthian church became unbalanced in the operation of the more spectacular gifts.
Many churches today have likewise become unbalanced in the operation of the various gifts.
THE NINE GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT
1 Corinthians 12:1-12
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. Now, there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom;
to another, the word of knowledge by the same Spirit,
To another faith by the same Spirit,
to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
To another the working of miracles;
to another prophecy,
to another discerning of spirits;
to another divers kinds of tongues;
to another the interpretation of tongues:
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ
Power to Know Supernaturally
The Word of Wisdom
The word of wisdom and knowledge are supernatural manifestations of the Spirit.
They exist far above their natural and human counterpart
Sometimes, God gives a specific word of wisdom for a particular situation.
The word wisdom implies a thought or utterance through the direct operation of the Holy Spirit
An example of this gift is in Acts where Paul perceived a shipwreck.
Acts 27:10 And sand unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.
Acts 27:31 Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.
Acts 27:34Wherefore I pray you to take some meat for this is for your health: forthere shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you.
The Word of Knowledge
Every Christian must endeavor to “grow in grace” and in the knowledge of our Lord.
2 Peter 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen.
The word of Knowlege includes facts from God about people, places, things, and events that a person could not possibly know unless God reveals it to them.
An example of the word of Knowledge is Peter’s supernatural knowledge of the secret sin of Ananias and Sapphira
Acts 5:1-10 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles’ feet. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.
Discerning of Spirits
Is the ability on a particular occasion, to ascertain whether a spirit or action is of God.
The purpose of this gift is to detect true or false.
An example was when Paul rebuke of a spirit possessing a girl.
And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
Today we should use this gift to determine whether or not the person, word, or spirit is of God.
Remember that not everyone who claims to be of God is of God and not everyone who says “Lord, Lord” will be saved.
Matthew 7: 21-23 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Power to Act Supernaturally
Faith
The spiritual gift of faith is to be distinguished from saving faith or daily faith. The gift of faith is a measure of faith above the faith that all of us have.
Examples are the faith of Peter and John for the lame man.
Acts 3:2-11, 16 And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God: And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon’s, greatly wondering. And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.
Working of Miracles
A supernatural release of God’s power through a person’s life to affect an immediate super- natural event. It is an event that cannot be explained by “natural law”.
Examples are the raising of Dorcas and Eutychus back to Life and special miracles in Paul’s ministry at Ephesus.
Dorcas:
Acts 9:36-40 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and alms deeds which she did. And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.
Eutychus:
Acts 20:9-10 And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.
Special miracles in Paul’s ministry at Ephesus:
Acts 19:11-12 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.
The Power to Speak Supernaturally
Prophecy
The gift of prophecy is a specific message from God to the hearers in their own language.
True prophecy will always be in harmony with God’s word.
The gift of prophecy brings edification, exhortation, and comfort to the church
1 Corinthians 14:3But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
1 Corinthians 14:5 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
1 Corinthians 14:22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
Tongues
Speaking with Tongues means speaking miraculously in a language unknown to the speaker.
There are three different kinds of tongues
It is initial evidence when someone is baptized with the Holy Ghost. Think about stammering lips of a repentant person crying out to God. It often times sounds similar to a crying child that is trying to talk.
Acts 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Acts 10:44-48 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Acts 19:6 (KJV) And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
Speaking to God in personnel prayer
1 Corinthians 14:2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries
1 Corinthians 14:14-15 For it I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
Romans 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Addressing the church, coupled with interpretation
Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.
Prophesied in the Old Testament
Isaiah 28:11-12 For with stammering lips and another tongue will be speak to this people. To whom he said. This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear
Interpretation of Tongues
By this gift, a person interprets a message in tongues for the church. When a person brings a message to the church through the gift of tongues, the gift of interpretation of tongues is used to edify the church.
1 Corinthians 14:13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
If there is no interpreter, the one speaking in the unknown tongue should keep silence in the church, although he can continue to pray in tongues personally.
1 Corinthians 14:28 (KJV) But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church and let him speak to himself, and to God.
The pastor should always have the oversight in the operation of the gifts.
1 Corinthians 14:29 Let the prophets speak two or three and let the other judge.
1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
The Holy Spirit works and empowers in many ways. The following is not an exhausted list of the many ways that the Holy Spirit works.
THE SPIRIT GIVES IMMORTALITY AT CHRIST’S RETURN
The baptism of the Holy Ghost bestows the same power that resurrected Jesus Christ from the dead.
According to Romans 8:11 we must have the spirit of Christ to be resurrected in the last days.
Romans 8:11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you
Additional Scriptures that refer to the Spirit.
Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
Corinthians 15:51-53 Behold, I show you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality
THE SPIRIT GIVES POWER
The baptism of the Holy Ghost gives the believer tremendous power to witness for the Lord. Without the Holy Ghost, the disciples would have been powerless in the hostile world they lived in. Jesus said:
Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
THE SPIRIT TEACHES
The Bible is not merely a product of human thinking and ability but:
2 Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost
Since it required inspiration of the Spirit for the writing of Scriptures, it also requires the inspiration of the Holy Ghost to understand God’s Word fully. Jesus promised that the Spirit would:
John 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
The Spirit Shows things to come
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
The Spirit GIVES RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE, AND Joy
Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
1 Peter1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
THE SPIRIT IMPARTS THE LOVE OF GOD
The gift of the Holy Ghost is a baptism of the love of God a boundless love that proceeds from God Himself, fills our souls, and then overflows from our lives like a mighty rushing river.
Revelation 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.
The Holy Spirit leads/ directs
Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
Acts 11:12 And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man’s house:
The Holy Spirit Searches and reveals
1 Corinthians 2:10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
The Holy Spirit Gives Gifts
1 Corinthians 12:1-4 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
JESUS SPOKE OF THIS EXPERIENCE Jesus spoke of this experience when He said
John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
PAUL PREACHED IT
Paul emphasized it with the words
Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
Christ actually comes and takes up His abode in a human body (temple).
1 Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
The baptism of the Holy Ghost is promised to all who obey God’s command to repent and who exercise faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul described it as: Joy unspeakable.
Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost
PETER TOLD OF IT
Peter spoke in Acts about the experience of the Holy Ghost. Later he described the feeling when the Creator dwells within his creation through the baptism of the Holy Ghost.
1 Peter 1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
The Evidence of the Holy Ghost
Acts 2:1-3 records the initial outpouring of the Holy Hust, when the believe the upper room spoke with other tongues.
And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
Who spoke in tongues in the Scriptures?
EVERYONE IN THE UPPER ROOM
On the Day of Pentecost all 120 were filled;
Acts 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Among them were Mary, mother of Jesus, Jesus’ four half-brothers, and all the disciples.
SAMARITANS RECEIVED THE HOLY GHOST
The Samaritans received the same experience and an outward sign to tell everyone when people received the Holy Ghost.
Even Simon the sorcerer knew they had received a heavenly gift and sought to buy the power
Acts 8:9-13 But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
GENTILES RECEIVED THE HOLY GHOST
The Holy Ghost fell on Cornelius and other Gentiles, and they spoke with other tongues
This sign convinced the skeptical Jewish Christians that the Gentiles had received the Holy Ghost, and this sign alone was sufficient for Peter to proclaim that the Gentles had received the same Holy Ghost experience
Acts 10:44-48 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Acts 11:15-17 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?
DISCIPLES OF JOHN THE BAPTIST RECEIVED THE HOLY GHOST
In Acts 19, a group of John the Baptist’s disciples were rebaptized in Jesus’ name by the apostle Paul, and they were filled with the Holy Ghost.
Acts 19:1-6 And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
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