“Understanding the Times” Part VII

1 Chronicles 12:32

understand – assess the times in which we are living; discern what is taking place

                 – then take action

What should the church be doing in these last days?  We must get every believer baptized in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues

-wind describes this Biblical experience – we need the ind of the Spirit today – Acts 2:1-4

(1) THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS OFFERED TO EVERYONE WHO IS SAVED – LUKE 9:23

-the Lord is a gentleman.  He invites people to do things…

-the baptism of the Holy Spirit is an invitation

-it is ours forever

-you can receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit right now

-the Baptism of the Holy Spirit can be resisted

*Because of ignorance – 1 Cor 12:1

ignorant means a lack of information, knowledge or education

-this speaks of people who do not know anything about this topic

*Because of what others are saying

-no matter who speaks against this Biblical experience, they are wrong and the Bible is right

*Because of what people personally think the bIble says as they study

-the Bible cannot be interpreted differently by everyone

-2 Timothy 2:15 rightly divide – means to cut straight – keep the Bible in context

*Because of the enemy coming against this Biblical experience – 1 Thess 2:18

hindered – to block progress

-the enemy resists believers receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit because of  what occurs when it is received

(2) THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT WAS GIVEN BY JESUS TO BRING REFRESHMENT TO HIS PEOPLE – Acts 3:19

-we must be refreshed every day in the day in which we live

-can we be refreshed every day?  YES…

2 ways to get refreshed:

1. salvation – John 4:14

-this is a one time event – you drink once

2. being filled – Ephesians 5:18 – be being filled

-this is an every day event to stay refreshed

When we are refreshed, joy is produced.

joy – means a calm gladness that produces strength

*praying in tongues produces joy and strength during tough times

*praying in tongues produces times of exuberance and excitement also – Acts 2:1-15

(3) THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS AN IMMERSION – Romans 8:9-11 & 1 Cor 14:14-15

a. we receive the Holy Spirit at salvation

b. the baptism of the Holy Spirit is an immersion of our spirit with the Holy Spirit.  It is more from God…..

**********WE MUST BELIEVE THE LORD FOR MORE************

-more of His Spirit upon our spirit which gives us more joy, peace, power and presence…