Evergreen Faith : The Baptism in the Holy Spirit

Bible Verses

• Acts 1:4-5, 8: "On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: 'Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit... But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.'"

• Acts 2:4: "All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them."

• Acts 10:44-46: "While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message... For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God."

• Acts 19:6: "When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied."

• Luke 11:13: "If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

Hey there. We are so glad you’ve leaned in to explore one of the most beautiful and empowering aspects of the Christian walk. If you’ve been around Boundless Online Church for a while, you know we talk a lot about "Evergreen Faith", the kind of faith that stays fresh, vibrant, and growing no matter what season of life you’re in.

One of the keys to that lasting vibrancy is something called the Baptism in the Holy Spirit.

Now, if you grew up in a traditional church or maybe no church at all, that phrase might sound a little intimidating. You might wonder, "Is this some kind of weird ritual?" or "Is this only for people who are super spiritual?" The short answer is: No. It’s for you. It’s for the late-shift worker trying to find strength at 3:00 AM, the stay-at-home parent feeling overwhelmed, and the seeker looking for more than just a Sunday routine.

What is the Baptism in the Holy Spirit?

To understand this, we look at the 16 Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God. We believe that all believers are entitled to and should ardently expect and earnestly seek the promise of the Father: the Baptism in the Holy Spirit.

Think of it like this: When you accept Jesus as your Savior, it’s like having a well of living water inside you. It’s life-giving and essential. But the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is like that, well overflowing into a rushing river. It’s an endowment of power" for life and service. It isn't just about feeling good or having a "spiritual high"; it’s about being equipped to do what God has called you to do.

Is it Different from Salvation?

This is a great question we get asked a lot. In the book of Acts, we see people who already believed in Jesus but were later baptized in the Holy Spirit. It is an experience that is distinct from and after the experience of the new birth.

When you are born again, the Holy Spirit works in you to change your heart and make you a new creation. When you are baptized in the Holy Spirit, the Spirit comes upon you to empower you for the mission of sharing Jesus with the world. You can read more about the roots of our faith and what it means to be Pentecostal on our blog.

Why Do We Need This Power?

In Acts 1:8, Jesus told His followers they would receive "power" to be His witnesses. The word used there in the original language is dunamis, which is where we get the word "dynamite."

We live in a world that can be exhausting. Maybe you’re navigating a difficult health diagnosis, or you’re living in an area where it isn't safe to talk about your faith. Maybe you’re just tired of trying to be "good" on your own strength. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit gives you:

• An intensified consecration to God.

• A deeper love for people.

• An active hand in the ministry of the church.

• A greater power to share the Gospel.

This isn't just "church power"; it’s life power. It’s the strength to keep going when things get tough.

The Sign: Speaking in Tongues

We believe in the biblical pattern shown in the Book of Acts. The initial physical sign of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is "speaking in other tongues" as the Spirit gives utterance.

While this can seem unusual to some, it’s a beautiful, personal prayer language between the believer and God. It’s a sign that the Holy Spirit has fully occupied the person's life, even their speech. It’s important to remember that while this is the initial sign, the purpose is the power that follows. It leads to a life of fruitfulness and spiritual gifts.

How Do I Receive This Gift?

The best part about this gift is that it is free, and Jesus is the one who gives it. You don't have to "earn" it or be perfect to receive it.

1. Ask: In Luke 11, Jesus says the Father loves to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask.

2. Thirst: Have a desire for more of God.

3. Wait and Yield: Sometimes it happens instantly, and sometimes we find ourselves in a season of waiting with purpose. It’s about opening your heart and saying, "Holy Spirit, I’m yours. Fill me."

Whether you are watching our media content from home or reading this on a break at work, God can meet you right where you are. He isn't limited by geography or a physical building.

Living a Spirit-Empowered Life

Once you receive this baptism, it’s not a one-time event that you put on a shelf. It’s meant to be a daily walk. The Holy Spirit becomes your Comforter, your Guide, and your Teacher.

For our friends who are caregivers or working late shifts, this power looks like patience when you’re at your wits’ end. For our global community in persecuted areas, it looks like boldness to stand firm in your faith. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, making your faith truly evergreen.

Practical Next Steps

If you’re curious about this or want to dive deeper into the Bible, we invite you to check out our blog archives for more studies on the 16 Fundamental Truths. You might also find encouragement by wearing something that reminds you of your faith, like a t-shirt, or keeping a journal to record what the Spirit is teaching you.

We are here to walk with you. No question is too small or too big. We want to help you meet Jesus and grow in your faith online, wherever you are in the world.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, I thank You for the promise of the Father. I thank You that You didn't leave us to live this life on our own strength. Right now, I ask for the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. Fill me to overflowing. Give me the power I need to be Your witness and to live a life that honors You. I open my heart to everything You have for me. Amen.

Call to Action

Do you have questions about the Holy Spirit or want someone to pray with you as you seek this gift? We would love to hear from you. We believe in the power of prayer and that God is moving in your life right now.

Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341 (message & data rates may apply). Not for emergencies.

We also invite you to explore our Online Community, where you can find more resources to help you grow.

Boundless Online Church is a ministry of FA Memphis.