| II Kings 13:1-14:29, Acts 18:23-19:12, Psalm 146:1-10, Proverbs 18:2-3
“Then Paul pointed out to them that John’s baptism was to demonstrate a desire to turn from sin to God and that those receiving his baptism must then go on to believe in Jesus, the one John said would come later. As soon as they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then when Paul laid his hands upon their heads, the Holy Spirit came on them and they spoke in other languages and prophesied.” Acts 19:4-6
Since the men were unaware of Holy Spirit, Paul took a minute to locate where they were spiritually. He discovered they had only been baptized in John’s baptism but didn’t know Jesus. I mean they listened to John and were baptized, symbolically turning from sin and that was great because this shows a desire to be obedient to God. But water baptism, being nice, changing our behavior, none of this stuff saves us, only knowing Jesus and receiving what He has done saves us. When Paul told them about trusting Christ, they had no problem. The salvation experience doesn’t stop there. After receiving Jesus’ sacrifice, they had the bonus of Holy Spirit, and so do we. Jesus said that it was necessary for Him to leave so the Comforter would come. Holy Spirit is with us. He is God. He leads and guides us. He provides shelter from the stress of this world. I’m asking you like Paul asked these Ephesians, “Have you received Holy Spirit since you’ve believed?”
PRAYER: God I acknowledge Holy Spirit as part of the trinity. I ask to receive Holy Spirit and everything He brings with Him. Thank You for not leaving us without Your Presence. I appreciate You Lord. In Jesus’ name. |
