“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 1:8
The baptism in the Holy Spirit is administered in two ways according to the New Testament. Firstly, it can occur directly from heaven, as seen on the Day of Pentecost and in the house of Cornelius. Secondly, it can happen through the laying on of hands by other believers, as demonstrated in Acts 8:14–19, Acts 9:17, and Acts 19. This impartation of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands signifies a transfer of supernatural power from one believer to another.
The primary purpose of receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit is to obtain supernatural power from God, as expressed by Jesus in Acts 1:8. This power, likened to dynamite, enables believers to be effective witnesses for Christ (Acts 1:8). It is essential for testifying to the supernatural truths of the gospel and engaging in supernatural acts such as healing the sick, casting out demons, and even raising the dead (Matt 10:8). This power distinguishes the message of the gospel as supernatural and commands attention from both believers and non-believers alike (Rom 15:18–19).
The baptism in the Holy Spirit equips believers to operate in the supernatural realm, where the gospel can be effectively proclaimed. It is not merely about acquiring theological knowledge but experiencing the tangible presence and power of God in one’s life and ministry. Through this baptism, believers are empowered to demonstrate the reality of the gospel through signs, wonders, and miraculous interventions. It is a transformative experience that enables believers to fulfill their divine mandate and impact the world for Christ.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk