Bible Basics: Spiritual Gifts
By:
Brother S. Evans
Promises of the Holy Ghost
Isaiah 44:3
For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon
the dry ground: I will pour my spirit
upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring: 44:4
And they shall spring up as among the grass, as willows by the water
courses.
Joel 2:23 Be glad then, ye
children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause
to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month.
Joel 2:28 And it shall come
to pass afterward, that I will pour out
my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your
old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: 2:29
And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I
pour out my spirit.
Acts 2:16 But this is that which was spoken by the
prophet Joel; 2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see
visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
2:18 And on my servants and on my
handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall
prophesy:
Eight
hundred years before Christ came to earth in mortal flesh, the prophet Joel
wrote of the promise of the baptism of the Holy Ghost. His account prophesies
events on the day of Pentecost and those that we have seen fulfilled within the
last century. In Joel 2:23,28-29, we read, “Be glad then, ye children of Zion,
and rejoice in the Lord your God: for he hath given you the former rain
moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain,
and the latter rain in the first month. . . .And it shall come to pass
afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and
your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men
shall see visions: and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those
days will I pour out my spirit.”
Joel may
not have fully understood the prophecy that he gave, but God moved upon him and
those words were spoken by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, to let us know
that there would be an outpouring of the Spirit of God. The Former Rain
referring to the outpouring on the Day of Pentecost and the Latter Rain
referring to the outpouring of the Holy Ghost that began in the early 20th
century.
Matthew
Mark 1:8
I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.
John
John 14:16 And I will pray
the Father, and he shall give you
another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; 14:17
Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth
him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth
with you, and shall be in you.
John
Jesus breathed on them to symbolize “rushing mighty wind” that
would accompany the outpouring to come on Pentecost.
Who is the Holy Ghost
The Holy
Ghost is the third person in the Holy Trinity or God Head, composed of God the
Father, Jesus Christ his Son, and the Holy Ghost. Each of them is an individual
being but they work together in agreement as one. Some “Oneness” or “Jesus
Only” beliefs wrongly interpret the God Head as being one entity that has worked
in three different functions at various times in history, but the following
scriptures illustrate that there are three distinct entities in heaven.
If three
names refer to one person, why would that individual refer to themselves using
all three in one statement?
Matthew 28:18
And Jesus came and spake unto them,
saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all
nations, baptizing them in the name of
the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever
I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the
world. Amen.
All three
present at one time when Jesus was baptized by John
Luke 3:22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like
a dove upon him, and a voice came
from heaven, which said, Thou art my
beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.
Stephen
was filled with the Holy Ghost and looked up into heaven and saw God the Father
and Jesus at his right hand.
Acts 7:55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up
steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, 7:56
And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing
on the right hand of God.
Three bear
record in heaven and they agree as one, but are as distinct as the spirit,
water, and blood.
1John 5:4
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh
the world: and this is the victory that overcometh
the world, even our faith. 5:5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is
the Son of God? 5:6 This is he that came by water and
blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is
the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit
is truth. 5:7 For there are three that bear record in
heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are
one. 5:8 And there are three that bear witness
in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in
one.
The names
“Holy Ghost” and “Holy Spirit” are interchangeable in Scripture; they are both
translated from the same Greek word in the original texts. He is part of the
Trinity that is comprised of God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son of God, and himself.
He was
present at Creation as we read in Genesis 1:2 , “The
Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” From Creation and through out
the Bible, we see evidence of Him, but in the New Testament, we find a fuller
revelation of the workings of the Holy Ghost.
What are the functions of
the Holy Ghost in our lives?
The Holy
Ghost provides helps to all born again believers as some of the following
topics illustrate, but other blessings are only received in the fullness of the
Holy Ghost baptism. Listed below are some of the benefits, but definitely not a
complete list.
Brings
Conviction of sin and Reproves the World
John
8:9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience,
went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was
left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.
Romans
2:15 Which show the work of the law
written in their hearts, their
conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing
or else excusing one another;)
John
16:7 Nevertheless
I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not
away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him
unto you. 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 16:9
Of sin, because they believe not on me;
16:10 Of righteousness, because I
go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
16:11 Of judgment, because the
prince of this world is judged.
He will
demonstrate these matters so clearly as to leave no doubt on the minds of those
who are simple of heart.
Define:
REPROVE - 1. To scold or correct usually gently or with
kindly intent. 2. To charge with a fault to the face; to chide; to
reprehend.
1John
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.
1John
3:1 Behold,
what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called
the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
He
provides a witness of Jesus Christ and God the Father
1John
5:6 This is he
that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by
water and blood. And it is the Spirit
that beareth witness, because the Spirit is
truth. 5:7 For
there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy
Ghost: and these three are one. And
there are three that bear witness in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the
blood: and these three agree in one. If
we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of
his Son.
Hebrews
10:15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said
before, 10:16 This is the covenant that I will make with
them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my
laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;
John16:13 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 show you things to come.
John
15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will
send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
Provides
the believer with Boldness
After
receiving the baptism in the Holy Ghost, you receive a spiritual uplift or
boldness to work on God’s behalf in a greater way.
Acts 4:30
By stretching forth thine hand to heal;
and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child
Jesus.
The Holy
Ghost is that Comforter that Jesus promised
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.
Spirit of
Truth
John
15:26 But when
the Comforter is come, whom I will
send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit
of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he
shall testify of me:
John16:13 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 show you things to come.
The Holy
Ghost is a teacher
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.
1Corinthians
The Holy
Ghost provides prophetic incites
2Peter
Joel 2:28 And it shall come
to pass afterward, that I will pour out
my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your
old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:
Provides
spiritual Joy
Romans
Acts
Praying in
the Spirit
Jude
1Corinthians 14:15 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 8:27
And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh
intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Provides
spiritual Power
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
Acts 10:38 How God anointed
Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost
and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were
oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
Romans
Luke 10:19
Behold, I give unto you power
to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy:
and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
1Thessalonians 1:5 For our gospel came not unto you in
word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as
ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.
Renewing
Titus 3:5
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according
to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Seals our
Salvation
The Holy
Ghost seals our salvation to the point that nothing can separate us from the
love of God except ourselves.(Rom 8:38-39).
Ephesians 1:12
That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted
in Christ. 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard
the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye
believed, ye were sealed with that Holy
Spirit of promise, 1:14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until
the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
Ephesians
Fills the
believer’s mouth with Spirit-filled words in the time of need, leads a
Christian
Luke 12:11
And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto
magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer,
or what ye shall say: 12 For the Holy
Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.
Romans
Mark
13:11 But when they shall lead you, and
deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye
premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy
Ghost.
Helps to over come lust of the flesh
Galatians
Gives and administers spiritual gifts to the Church
1Corinthians 12:4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 12:5 And there are differences of
administrations, but the same Lord. 12:6 And there are diversities of
operations, but it is the same God which worketh all
in all. 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to
profit withal.
He abides in us
1Corinthians
Sanctifies Christians to holiness
A person needs to be sanctified to receive the baptism of the Holy
Ghost, but even before that point the Holy Ghost helps us to reach this
consecrated life.
Romans 15:16 That I should be the minister of Jesus
Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of
the Gentiles might be acceptable, being
sanctified by the Holy Ghost.
Anoints those that minister his Word
Acts 10:38 How God anointed
Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing
good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the
gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach
deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at
liberty them that are bruised,
First outpouring of the
Baptism of the Holy Ghost
Prior to
his ascension to Heaven, Jesus instructs his followers to wait in
Luke 24:49
And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of
Act 1:4 And, being
assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the
Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. 1:5 For John truly
baptized with water; but ye shall be
baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
One
hundred and twenty (including the Disciples and Jesus’ relatives) were gathered
in an upper room tarrying in prayer as Jesus had instructed them.
Acts 1:13 And when they
were come in, they went up into an upper
room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and
Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus,
and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of
James.
This group
of one hundred and twenty was in one accord or in agreement with each other and
with God on the day of Pentecost. We can also look back to the Holy Ghost
revival during the early 1900s in Topeka KS, Wales (Great Britain), and (Azusa
Street) Los Angeles, CA where the people gathered together with a hunger or
desire for more of God’s spirit. During some of these occasions there were
people praying day and night for God to send the his blessings (they typically
rotated in shifts of three people for three hour intervals). This act
demonstrated the hunger that they had for the blessings of God, and they were
rewarded with the baptism of the Holy Ghost and many miracles following. (In
2Chronicles
2Chronicles
7:14 If my people, which are called by
my name, shall humble themselves,
and pray, and seek my face, and turn from
their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their
sin, and will heal their land.
After
tarrying for ten days, the promise of the comforter was fulfilled on the day of
Pentecost (This Jewish holiday is celebrated in late May or early June, This
feast provided closure for the festival activities during and following the
holiday of Passover).
Acts 2:1 And when the day of Pentecost was
fully come, they were all with one
accord in one place. 2:2 And suddenly
there came a sound from heaven as of a
rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were
sitting. 2:3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat
upon each of them. 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began
to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 2:5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem
Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. 2:6 Now when this was noised abroad, the
multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. 2:7
And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold,
are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 2:8 And how hear we every man in our own
tongue, wherein we were born? 2:9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites,
and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and
Asia, 2:10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia,
in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews
and proselytes, 2:11 Cretes and Arabians,
we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.
God made His presence known to this group of believers in an
outstanding way in this initial outpouring of the Holy Ghost. The coming of the
Spirit was accompanied by two manifestations: the sound of “a rushing mighty
wind,” and the appearance of “cloven tongues like as of fire.” John the Baptist
had foretold of one who would baptize “with the Holy Ghost, and with fire”
(Matthew 3:11, Luke 3:16), and the two physical manifestations made a graphic
picture of the coming of the Holy Spirit.
The evidence of this amazing event was that those who had been
filled began to speak in “other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
Those from faraway countries who were in the city for the Day of Pentecost
recognized the languages that were spoken and were amazed to hear the believers
speaking in languages of which the disciples would not have known. Peter stood
and declared that this was what had been prophesied by the prophet Joel—the
Holy Ghost had descended. Peter's sermon that day resulted in the salvation of
three thousand souls and many thousands more later.
I think it is interesting that God chose this sign of speaking in
unknown tongues to show unity with him, but the inverse was true when he
confounded the wicked people at
Genesis
11:9 Therefore
is the name of it called
What is meant by the
baptism of the Holy Ghost?
The filling of the Spirit, or the baptism of
the Holy Ghost, is an experience beyond
regeneration (salvation) and sanctification. Although the baptism of the Holy Spirit was
alluded to by Old Testament prophets, it was not until after the crucifixion,
resurrection, and ascension of Jesus that the Holy Ghost was made available to
all believers. When Jesus completed his work on earth and returned to the
Father, the Holy Ghost came as the promised Comforter. We read in Luke
1:15,41,67 that John the Baptist and his parents were filled with the Holy
Ghost for the preparation of Jesus’ ministry, but this wasn’t the wide spread
outpouring that was written about in the book of Acts.
There are
various theological understandings and opinions of the baptism of the Holy
Ghost. Some say that this experience was only for the early church and not for
believers today. Others teach that a person receives all that God has for him
at the point of conversion. However, we must base our beliefs on the Holy scripture. What does the Bible have to say about the baptism
of the Holy Ghost?
Let me
make note that all Christians are helped by the Holy Ghost, but to be baptized
goes to a much deeper experience. This is evident in that the Old Testament
prophets were moved upon by the Holy Ghost, but they did not receive the
baptism.
Just as
you can’t express in words how a person feels when they are saved, the same can
be said of receiving this spiritual baptism. It brings such spiritual strength,
faith, and boldness that can’t be realized until you receive it. It is an
amazing realization to comprehend that the third person in the Godhead or
Trinity is physically working through you.
Luke
Acts
2:38 Then Peter
said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus
Christ for the remission of sins, and ye
shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
It is
obvious from Acts 2:38 that this promise of the Comforter is available unto all
generations and all races of people.
If the
Holy Ghost baptism is actually received at salvation, why would Paul have asked
the Ephesians if they received the Holy Ghost since they believed? It is
obvious that this is not a one step process. (Acts 19:2)
Acts
19:2 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.
John the
Baptist prophesied that Jesus, the one of whom he spoke, would baptize with the Holy Ghost and with fire. I believe that the fire
represents the power and strength provided by the Holy Ghost. On the day of
Pentecost there was also the visual sign of the cloven tongues of fire.
Matthew
The word
that is translated as baptism means
“to be immersed; to be totally covered”
and can be understood by looking at the physical demonstration of water
baptism. When we come to be baptized in water after we have been saved, we go
down into the water and the water completely covers us. We are immersed,
totally under the water. When we receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost, we are totally immersed, covered, and filled with
the Holy Ghost.
Scriptures referring to being full of the Holy Ghost
Acts
6:3 Wherefore,
brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom
we may appoint over this business.
Stephen
was full of the Holy Ghost
Acts
7:55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven,
and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,
Barnabas
was full of the Holy Ghost
Acts
Jesus also
used the word baptism in connection with the outpouring of the Holy Ghost. He
explained to His disciples that just as John had baptized with water, they
would be baptized with the Holy Ghost. The word baptize gave his followers an
idea of what they were to expect—that they would be immersed in the Holy Ghost.
How do I receive the
baptism of the Holy Ghost?
What are the qualifications?
In order
to be eligible to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, essential requirements
must first be met.
A person
must first be saved or born again, justified by faith.
Scripture is clear that the Holy Ghost is not given to the unconverted. Notice
the words of 1 Corinthians
1Corinthians
John
Acts
Acts
19:4 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. 19:5 When they heard this, they were
baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 19:6 And when Paul
had laid his hands upon them, the Holy
Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
The second
step is entire sanctification, which
occurs when the saved person goes deeper in consecration and God purges the
heart and life. Believers are not only forgiven for committed acts of sin, but
they also need to be delivered from the inherited nature of sin through entire
sanctification. The old sinful nature must be crucified so that the new nature
of Christ can be fully expressed. After sanctification, the heart is ready for
the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Romans
8:1 There is
therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus
hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
Galations
1Corinthians
John
In Luke
24:49, the purpose in the disciples to tarry in
Luke
24:49 And,
behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of
The 120
who gathered in the upper room at the time of the initial outpouring were saved
individuals; they were close followers of Christ, and were obviously committed
to following his instructions. They had gathered in the upper room and had
continued in prayer and supplication. When the Day of Pentecost came, ten days
after Jesus' ascension, they were all “with one accord, in one place.” Jesus
had prayed for them to experience the unity described by that phrase (John 17).
John
17:20 Neither pray I for these alone,
but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; 17:21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father,
art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent
me.
Salvation
and sanctification accomplish the forgiveness of sins and then the removal of
the sinful nature. Then the condemnation for committed sins and the nature of
sin are gone, and the heart is a suitable dwelling place for the Holy Ghost.
The God who wants to live within us is a Holy God. The place where He dwells
must be a holy place. So we must have the sin taken care of and the heart
cleansed. When the habitation is made holy, we are ready to receive the
fullness of the Holy Ghost.
Acts
Romans
12:1 I beseech
you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and
perfect, will of God.
1Cor
John
Acts
15:8 And God,
which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he
did unto us;
Acts
15:9 And put no
difference between us and them, purifying
their hearts by faith.
1Cor
6:9 Know ye not
that the unrighteous shall not inherit
the
Romans 15:16
That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles,
ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be
acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy
Ghost.
Pentecostal
leaders at the start of the 20th century (when the “latter rain” was poured
out) were firm advocates of salvation and of sanctification as a second work of
grace. These included William Seymour, the leader at the
We see
today that this worldly counterfeit charismatic movement which does not teach sanctification, is very wide spread. Some churches even
“teach” people how to “speak in tongues”, which is totally against what the
Bible describes when it says “as the spirit gives utterance”. These worldly
charismatic movements are instruments of Satan as they attempt to tear down the
Holiness doctrines and bring confusion among the church. If God wanted us to
repeat phrases provided by man, then he would have given a script for it, but
he did much more than that by providing a genuine experience.
As a young
Christian seeking for the baptism of the Holy Ghost, I was concerned that I
would be deceived or “in myself” in speaking in tongues instead of receiving
the genuine gift. Because of this, I fervently asked the Lord to baptize me and
remove any doubt about my experience. The Lord heard my prayer and provided an
experience that I could not doubt or deny. Once I received the baptism and
started to speak in tongues as the Spirit gave utterance, I could not stop
speaking in this new language on my own. All through the remainder of that
church service and up to going to bed that night, every word that I spoke came
out in another language. It was one of the most amazing things that I have
personally experienced. When people asked me questions and I tried to respond
in English, but it came out in some other language. Needless to say, the Lord
proved to me that without a shadow of doubt, that there is a real baptism in
the Holy Ghost with a real evidence of speaking in tongues!
I also
recall that while seeking for the baptism, that Satan sent a false prophet that
tried to convince me that you could be filled with the Holy Ghost without the
experience of speaking in tongues. I have to admit that this preacher had me
questioning what I had been taught and believed, but the Lord showed a sister
in the church that the devil was trying to deceive me and the others that were
seeking God for this gift. After she let us know about this warning from the
Lord, I had no doubt that speaking in other tongues was the sign that is given
as the evidence of the Holy Ghost baptism. It wasn’t long after this incident, that we had a great outpouring and several of us
received the baptism.
The
baptism is a gift to those that meet the qualifications, and is not for
sale as demonstrated with Simon in Acts 8 (below).
Acts
Acts
A third
step in receiving the baptism is to have a hunger and desire for more of God
To receive
the Holy Ghost, one must have a hunger or real desire for more of God. This
typically involves tarrying in prayer and worship of the Lord. Robert Hayden
was my pastor during my youth and I recall him telling us to “seek” for the
Holy Ghost and not “sneak” for it. In other words, if we really wanted this
gift we should tarry at the altar at every opportunity and let God know the
sincerity of our desire. He also taught us that a Christian needs a real
“hunger” for the things of God in order to reach this goal and should pray that
God would provide an appetite that would not be quenched until we reached our
desire.
Luke
11:9 And I say
unto you, Ask, and it shall be given
you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Matthew
5:6 Blessed are
they which do hunger and thirst after
righteousness: for they shall be filled.
Laying on of Hands to receive the
baptism
I have
both witnessed and experienced the baptism being given by the Laying on of
hands. There are also numerous accounts in the Bible that verify this. The
qualifications of salvation and sanctification are still required, but Laying
on of hands can be a conduit of faith to receive the baptism. More recent
history tells us that churches during the early 20th century
revivals also experienced many baptisms by the laying on of hands.
Acts
8:14 Now when
the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word
of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
8:15 Who, when they were come
down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 8:16
(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in
the name of the Lord Jesus.)
Acts
9:17 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.
Acts
19:6 And when
Paul had laid his hands upon them, the
Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with
tongues, and prophesied.
What are the signs of the
Baptism of the Holy Ghost?
Acts 2:2
And suddenly there came a sound
from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where
they were sitting. 2:3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat
upon each of them.
Before the
initial outpouring, God provided special signs to those gathered in the upper
room on the day of Pentecost. There was a sound from heaven as a rushing mighty
wind (Jesus breathed on them -John 20:22) and then what appeared as “cloven
tongues like as fire” (fire representing power and being purified as gold) upon
each person. Cloven means divided, so
the fire looked like it was a forked or a split flame. Records of the early
1900s outpourings (latter rain) also witness to cloven tongues of fire
appearing unto them. I personally haven’t heard of these two special signs
being experienced at other times, but that is not to say that it doesn’t or
couldn’t occur. What would we witness when someone is baptized in the Holy
Ghost, if we could see with our spiritual eyes instead of the fleshly man? I think that these two occasions were so
significant that God provided the two special signs to those gathered, showing
that this was Joel’s prophesy of the “former” and “latter rain” being
fulfilled.
What is
the evidence that we receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost?
2:4
And they were all filled with
the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them
utterance.
After they were filled with the Holy Ghost, the sign provided was
speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gave utterance.
Technically,
there are two terms or descriptions given to the way a person “speaks in
tongues”.
1) Glossolalia – speaking in a language unknown to humans or
in a heavenly language (1Corinthians
13:1) as the spirit gives
utterance (not performed by repeating phrases or chants as taught by some modern
churches). Our Spirit speaking directly to heaven through the Holy Ghost. This
language is typically manifested during prayer or worship for our own
edification, but we should pray that the Holy Ghost will provide an
interpretation for our understanding (1 Corinthians 14:4, 14:13). If the Holy
Ghost is providing the utterance, then the Holy Ghost can provide the
interpretation, if we ask God for it.
2) Xenoglalia - to speak an earthly language that he or she could not have
acquired by natural means but as they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost. This
manifestation can be understood by those present that know the language being
used or by interpretation provided by the Holy Ghost. In this manner, the Holy
Ghost can speak through us to provide a message to someone through a language
foreign to us or by interpretation. I’ve read and heard of several occurrences
where people from other nationalities have visited churches and received
warnings through a Holy Ghost filled person via their language.
There are
two distinct ways that the act of speaking in tongues are used in the church
1) The first
is that of a spontaneous manifestation typically during (but not limited to) prayer or worship.
The
tongues used in praying in the spirit or worship of the Lord. This manifestation
is the evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost and occurs as the spirit moves
spontaneously up on us. Anyone that is baptized by the Holy Ghost will
encounter this experience and can continue to be moved up on through out their
Christian experience.
The Bible
teaches that this prayer and praise language is provided for our own
edification (unless an interpretation is provided), while the “gift of tongues”
(see below) is only to be used with interpretation (for the edification of the
entire church). According to 1Corinthians 14:2 our spirit is speaking directly
unto God if the tongue is unknown.
I believe
that God can provide the interpretation of utterance (Glossolalia or Xenoglalia) by the Holy Ghost, when he feels necessary and
when we pray for it, but there is also a gift of “divers
tongues” that goes further in a spiritual experience than most people ever
achieve. As we will discuss later, there are Gifts of faith, healing, and
miracles, but that doesn’t mean that every Christian doesn’t have some lesser
amount of each function.
2) The
second is the gift of divers
tongues with interpretation. The gift of divers
tongues is one of the nine spiritual gifts to be used in the congregation to
present a message or sermon when there is a known interpreter present. If it is
done in the spirit, not the flesh and if the congregation is in order, there
will be an interpreter present. You do not receive the “gift of divers tongues” at baptism, but only the evidence of
speaking in tongues (described above).
The
"gift of tongues" is still available to those that seek for it, but
not everyone in the church has the "gift of tongues." But everyone
who receives the Holy Ghost does speak in tongues as the evidence of that
experience.
Did the
group on the day of Pentecost have the Gift of Divers Tongues? If so then they
should have spoken in tongues in an orderly manner with a known interpreter as
Paul instructed. They did not though, because they did not receive the “gift of
tongues”, but the baptism of the Holy Ghost with the evidence of tongues. (I’m
referring to Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 14:28 which is discussed in detail at the end of this commentary).
I’ve heard
of Pentecostal Holiness preachers that would stop a move of the Holy Ghost in
their churches because they wrongly interpret the instructions that Paul gave
the Corinthians concerning the
orderly use of the gift of tongues (see more details under spiritual gifts
section of this document). In either manifestation, a true move of the Holy Ghost is not to be stopped by man, as God’s
ways are much higher than man’s. After Paul’s instructions he concluded by
saying “forbid not to speak with tongues”. We know that Satan has a counterfeit for many
of God’s gifts and he can bring confusion (some times referred to as wild
fire), but I’m speaking of a true move of the spirit on someone that lives a
holy, consecrated, sanctified life. Spiritual wisdom, discernment, and common
sense can judge the real move of God vs. counterfeit. (Reference Matthew 7:20 “by their fruits”)
Out pouring of the Holy
Ghost after Pentecost
In the
years following the Day of Pentecost, the gift of the Holy Ghost continued to
be poured out upon believers. Scripture records some of those instances. The
Holy Ghost was given about eight years later to gentiles in the household of
Cornelius. Those with Peter immediately recognized that the believers (gathered
at the house of this Roman centurion) had received the gift of the Holy Ghost,
for they “heard them speak with tongues, and magnify
God” (Acts 10:46). In Acts 19:6, we read of the Holy Ghost falling on a group
of believers at Ephesus, and when that occurred, “they spake
with tongues, and prophesied.” All received the Holy Ghost with the evidence of
speaking in other tongues—a previously unlearned, distinguishable language.
Acts
Acts 15:5
But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which
believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them
to keep the law of Moses. 15:6 And the apostles
and elders came together for to consider of this matter. 15:7
And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto
them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among
us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and
believe. 15:8 And
God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness,
giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; 15:9
And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by
faith.
Acts 19:1 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,
19:2 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.
19:3 And
he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said,
Unto John's baptism. 19:4 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. 19:5 When they heard this, they were
baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 19:6 And when Paul
had laid his hands upon them, the Holy
Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and
prophesied.
1Thess 4:6
That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter:
because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned
you and testified. 4:7
For God hath not called us unto
uncleanness, but unto holiness. 4:8 He therefore that
despiseth, despiseth not
man, but God, who hath also given unto
us his Holy Spirit.
Pentecostal
outpouring at
In periods
prior to the 20th century, God poured out his Spirit on individuals here and
there. However, those were only “sprinklings” of the “latter rain” prophesied
by Joel. In April of 1906, a small group of people from Holiness organizations
arranged for prayer meetings in a home located on
Upon this
group on
As time
went on, the power of the Holy Spirit continued to fall, and thousands received
the baptism. People came from all over the world to receive their Pentecost,
and went forth to spread the flame, which began to set fire to the world. Those
attending the services compiled the accounts of the meetings into a paper
called “The Apostolic Faith”, and the headlines of the first edition published
the news, “Pentecost Has Come.” It proclaimed that “many are being converted
and sanctified and filled with the Holy Ghost, speaking in tongues as they did
on the day of Pentecost.” Don’t confuse the word Apostolic used in the title of
the paper with it’s present day use by some of the
Unitarian (Oneness, Jesus-only) movements, as this original group at
Sin Against
the Holy Ghost / resisting the Holy Ghost
From
scripture we can conclude that there is one sin that will not be forgiven in
this life or the one to come, which is to blaspheme the Holy Ghost. You may ask
the Oneness group to explain the difference in the penalty for blaspheming
against Jesus vs. the Holy Ghost if they are actually the same being (Matthew
12:31, Luke 12:10).
Define: Blaspheme
1. To speak of the Supreme Being in terms of
impious irreverence; to revile or speak reproachfully of God, or the Holy
Spirit. 2. To speak evil of; to
utter abuse or calumny against; to speak reproachfully of.
Matthew 12:31
Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall
be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy
against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. 12:32 And whosoever speaketh
a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy
Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the
world to come.
Luke 12:10
And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall
be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven.
This is a
serious matter and should not be taken trivial, but it should also be kept in
proper perspective. If we as Christians
are led by the Spirit, it would be impossible to blaspheme the Holy Ghost. I’ve
heard of Christians that would become nervous with worry that they might have
blasphemed, but I firmly believe that someone that blasphemes would be a
reprobate and have no conscience or concern for the things of God. We can see from the scriptures below that God
expects reverence and godly fear from us, but he hasn’t given us the spirit of
fear but of a sound mind.
2Timothy
1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear;
but of power, and of love, and of a sound
mind.
Hebrews
12:28 Wherefore
we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may
serve God acceptably with reverence and
godly fear:
Resisting
the Holy Ghost
How many
Christian denominations today are guilty of resisting the Holy Ghost? This
would not be considered blasphemy, but some preachers are so hard against the
Pentecostal experience that they could be in jeopardy.
Acts 7:51
Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in
heart and ears, ye do always resist the
Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.
Spiritual Gifts
The
Apostle Paul described the Spiritual Gifts that God has for his people. All of
these are described as being gifts of the Holy Ghost. All Christians have a
certain amount of Faith, Wisdom, Knowledge and those filled with the Holy Ghost
speak in tongues, but the Spiritual Gifts take these to a much higher level.
The same hunger or desire that helps us receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost is
also required to reach these other spiritual gifts.
Hebrews 2:3 How shall we
escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken
by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 2:4 God also bearing them witness, both with
signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost,
according to his own will? 2:5 For unto the
angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak.
The Nine
Spiritual Gifts described
1 Corinthians 12:1 Now concerning spiritual gifts,
brethren, I would not have you ignorant. 12:4 Now there are diversities of gifts,
but the same Spirit. 12:5 And there are differences of
administrations, but the same Lord. 12:6 And there are
diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh
all in all. 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is
given to every man to profit withal.
12:8 For to one is given by the
Spirit the word of wisdom; to
another the word of knowledge by the
same Spirit; 12:9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 12:10
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: 12:11
But all these worketh that one and the
selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
Functions
of the Spiritual Gifts described
1 Corinthians 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and
members in particular. 12:28 And God
hath set some in the church, first apostles,
secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps,
governments, diversities of tongues.
1) Word of Wisdom
–
God's
supernatural perspective on how to achieve His will. God's knowledge rightly
applied to specific situations. Spiritual wisdom doesn’t require education or
man’s wisdom but is a gift from God.
1Corinthians
2:6 Howbeit we
speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world,
that come to naught: 2:7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God
ordained before the world unto our glory:
2) Word of Knowledge
- "Facts" given by God that are
unknowable without revelation. The supernatural ability to
understand the meaning of the Word of God. The Word is foolishness to
the unbeliever but the Holy Ghost teaches us.
Colossians
2:2 That their
hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of
the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of
God, and of the Father, and of Christ;
2:3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
Colossians
3:10 And have
put on the new man, which is renewed in
knowledge after the image of him that created him:
1Corinthians
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.
3) The Gift of Faith
- The supernatural ability to believe God
without doubt. Essential to the Gift of Healing and Miracles.
Hebrews
11:1 Now faith
is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
4) The Gift of Healing
- Supernatural healing through special
anointing of the Holy Ghost.
1Peter
2:24 Who his
own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to
sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
5) The Working of
Miracles - A supernatural display
of power that goes beyond nature to counteract earthly and evil forces.
John
3:2 The same came to Jesus by night, and
said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou
doest, except God be with him.
6) The Gift of Prophecy
– The forth-telling of
God's utterance. It is divinely inspired and anointed words spoken by a
believer. A foretelling; prediction; a declaration of
something to come. Preaching; public interpretation of Scripture;
exhortation or instruction. True Prophecy will always agree with the Word of
God and up lift him, instead of uplifting man.
7) Discerning of Spirits
– Spiritual insight into
differences between the spirit of God, the spirit of Man, and evil spirits at
work in the earth. Ephesians 6:12 tells us that we wrestle not against flesh
and blood, but against spiritual powers of evil.
1John
4:1 Beloved,
believe not every spirit, but try the
spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out
into the world.
1Timothy
4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh
expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving
heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines
of devils;
8) Divers kinds of Tongues
- This is not to be confused with the use
of tongues in prayer or worship. This
refers to the ministry of tongues to others.
An utterance from a believer to another in a language
unknown to the speaker. Some of the people during the early 1900s revivals
obtained this gift and went to preach to nations where they had no former
knowledge of their languages. This would also be for prophesy in an unknown
tongue that would be interpreted for the benefit of the church (works in
conjunction with the gift of “Interpretation of Tongues”).
Acts
2:6 Now when
this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded,
because that every man heard them speak
in his own language. 2:7 And they were all amazed and marveled, saying
one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 2:8 And how hear we every man in our own
tongue, wherein we were born?
9) Interpretation of
Tongues - Supernatural power to
reveal the meaning of unknown tongues.
Not a translation by man’s knowledge, but an interpretation by the
Spirit. Tongues and Interpretation
working together can be the equivalent of prophecy.
1Corinthians 14:13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
Paul
explains to the Corinthians how the Spiritual Gifts should be manifested
Paul
instructs the Corinthians to seek for spiritual gifts, but explains that the
most beneficial gift to the church is that of prophesy. He explains that
speaking in an unknown tongue without an interpreter does not edify the church
as a whole as much as prophesying. He states that he would that they all spoke
in tongues, so it is obvious that he isn’t condemning the act, but explaining
the importance of edifying the entire church either by interpretation of the
unknown tongue or spoken word in the native tongue of the people. We should
also realize that we have to be edified ourselves before we can help others.
1Corinthans 14:1
Follow after charity, and desire
spiritual gifts, but rather that ye
may prophesy. 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. 14:3 But he that prophesieth
speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation,
and comfort. 14:4 He that speaketh
in an unknown tongue edifieth
himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth
the church. 14:5 I would that ye all spake
with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh,
with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. 14:6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you
speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you
either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? 14:7 And even things without life giving
sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how
shall it be known what is piped or harped?
14:8 For
if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the
battle? 14:9 So likewise ye, except ye utter by the
tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.
1Corinthians 14:10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of
voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.
In verse
12, Paul continues with this thought, as he suggests that they seek to edify
the whole church instead of the individual. He wanted to ensure that the whole
church benefited by the Word of God. He explains that he will pray in the
spirit (in unknown tongues) and with understanding (native language or
interpreted) as well as singing in both. Paul states that he speaks in tongues
more than any of us, but in the church he would rather speak five words with
his understanding that he might help others.
He continues by saying that we should not be children in understanding, but men.
If we look at the entire context of Paul’s
instructions as spiritually mature men or women, then we will not misunderstand
his teaching. I sense that Paul knew that people would wrongly interrupt his
instruction as thinking he was objecting to the Holy Ghost moving in the church
(by the evidence of speaking in tongues).
1Corinthans 14:12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are
zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that
ye may excel to the edifying of the
church.
In verse
21 we see that speaking in tongues is a sign to those that are lost, but to
receive instruction they also need to hear the Word with understanding.
Evidently the Corinthians had a lack of understanding that the lost needed to
hear the gospel and that reaching the lost is the most important objective that
we have as Christians. Paul also explains that if the whole church is assembled
into one place (public gathering) and all speak in tongues and no one
prophesies or preaches, then the unlearned and lost will be confused instead of
being helped.
1Corinthans 14:21 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.
As the 26th
verse illustrates, the Corinthians also “competed” with each other during the
church services, as it states that “every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine ..”. In other words they all thought they should
sing, teach, preach, and speak in tongues in every service and sometimes at the
same time, but Paul said to let all things be done unto edifying of all. This
competition brought contention and confusion to the church, which means that
they were not in “one mind” or agreement. It is a great thing to have a desire
to perform God’s work, but in Romans 12:10 Paul instructed us to prefer one
another first. (Romans
12:10 Be kindly
affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in
honor preferring one another;) He lays
out a guideline for the church that two or three people should preach or
prophesy in the native language or in unknown tongues (with interpreter
present) during a service and that successively instead of altogether. It
definitely would not be logical for someone with the gift of “divers tongues” to present an entire sermon without an
interpreter or understanding of the hearers. I’m convinced that Paul isn’t talking
about the typical spontaneous move of the Holy Ghost, but the use of the “Gift
of divers tongues” in presenting a message to the
church. From the other verses, it seems that some in the Corinthian church were
guilty of providing an entire sermon in an un-interpreted tongue without the
rest of the church receiving understanding or edification.
In verse
32, he mentions that the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets,
meaning that evil spirits control those that are possessed, but God’s spirit
leaves a Christian to make use of their own judgment. In other words the Holy
Ghost does not control our decisions, but provides help and comfort in making
the correct ones. If there is contention among the church in preaching or other
functions, it is not due to God bringing confusion, but is directly a result of
man’s decisions and actions.
1Corinthans 14:26 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.
Some
preachers misunderstand Paul’s instructions in the 28th verse as
though it condemns the move of the Holy Ghost in the church. As we mentioned
earlier in this commentary, there are two manifestations of the
“tongues” in the church:
1) Speaking
in a tongue unknown to the speaker as evidence of the baptism of the Holy Ghost
(occurring during the initial baptism and after during prayer and praise). This
is a spontaneous response when the Holy Ghost moves through our speech.
2) The Gift
of Divers kinds of Tongues and Interpretation of Tongues. The
gift of “Divers kinds of Tongues” was illustrated in one form during the later
rain (early 1900s) when God miraculously gave people the ability to
teach/preach to other nations in languages that they did not previous speak.
Another example of this gift is when the Holy Ghost prophesies in an unknown
tongue with someone present that has the gift of interpretation. The gift of
“Interpretation of Tongues” allows one to interpret what is spoken by the Holy
Ghost in an unknown tongue. The main difference of the gift of tongues is that
it is a more “orderly” use of tongues. If this was not the case, how would Paul
expect us to know if an interpreter was present or not?
Let us
demonstrate why the speaking in tongues at Pentecost was not the "gift of
tongues." In 1st Corinthians, the Apostle Paul regulates and
gives specific instructions concerning the use of this gift in the church. Let
us see if these instructions apply to the Baptism of the Holy Ghost.
Paul said
"Let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let
one interpret." We read on the day of Pentecost that they all began to
speak in other tongues simultaneously, not just two or three by course (or in
turns). And we read nothing at all of any "gift of interpretation"
during the Pentecost outpouring. Let us look further. Paul said, "If there
be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to
himself and to God." If the "gift of tongues" was manifested on
Pentecost, the disciples were completely out of order! But we know that this was not the case, as
they were moved upon by the Holy Ghost and spoke as he gave utterance.
1Corinthans 14:34 Let your women keep silence in the churches:
for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under
obedience, as also saith the law. 14:35 And if they will learn any thing, let
them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the
church. 1Corinthans 14:36 What? came
the word of God out from you? or came it unto you
only?
You can
view the right of women to prophesy or teach as you understand it, but I think
it is clear in verses 34 and 35 that Paul was not addressing this question; as
it is evident that the women are being taught and not presenting the message.
Women were not allowed to question or dispute with a man in public, much less
question a man presenting the scripture. Also women should not disturb the
service by asking their husbands to explain the meaning of the message during
the meeting, but should wait until they are home and then ask their husbands.
Basically, Paul was requesting respect and honor in the house of God.
He said
that these instructions should be acknowledged as the commandments of the Lord,
but if they were not accepted as such, let that person remain in ignorance of
understanding.
Again,
Paul had great spiritual wisdom about how people would misinterpret his
instructions and use them to meet their own objectives, as he stated at the
conclusion “forbid not to speak in tongues”. During his discourse to the
Corinthians, he wasn’t condemning the act of speaking in tongues or spiritual
gifts but the use of the spiritual gifts in a manner that didn’t edify the
entire church.
Quote from – Charles Haddon Spurgeon (
Oh! men and brethren, what would this heart feel if I could but
believe that there were some among you who would go home and pray for a revival
- men whose faith is large enough, and their love fiery enough to lead them
from this moment to exercise unceasing intercessions that God would appear
among us and do wondrous things here, as in the times of former generations.
As C.H.
Spurgeon so eloquently spoke, what wondrous things could be achieved by the
church, if we would wholly seek for stronger relationship with God? We have the
promise of the Holy Ghost and his spiritual gifts available to us, but do we
desire them enough to make the necessary sacrifices in time, prayer, and
consecration? Imagine how many more lost souls could be reached if today’s
churches would rekindle the fire of God!
Wasn’t
reaching the lost with the Gospel the great commission that Jesus charged to
the Church? (Matthew 28:19).
Brother S. Evans
Email:
holyliving@gmail.com
Website:
www.trinity-holiness.com