What about the Holy Spirit?

 Various denominations have varying ideas of what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Some think that when the Holy Spirit came the first time on the day of Pentecost, what happened then needs to be repeated in the life of Christians, meaning all will speak in tongues. I’m not sure if this includes the wind and fire and wondered why we need to do language study if going to a foreign mission field.

When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Acts 2:1–4)

After this, they shared the good news with all visitors who spoke different languages and they understood what was being said.

Others use a term “slain in the Spirit” and fall to the ground unable to move, yet this is not highlighted in the Bible.

The most characteristic activity of the Holy Spirit throughout Scripture is to reveal God and speak for him. The prophets received messages from the Spirit of God and were empowered by him to deliver those messages to God’s people. All of Scripture was written by human authors carried along by the Spirit. The words, styles and genres are the authors’ but they’re also the words of God, inspired (breathed into them) by the Spirit of God.

At that initial filling of the Spirit, the preaching of the apostles was effective and underscored with signs and wonders. The Spirit also directed their activities by telling them whom to send where and forbidding them from entering certain territories while leading them into others.

The Spirit still teaches and sanctifies God’s people through the Word of God, giving us power over sin and conforming us to the image of Jesus, helping us live and pray as He produces ‘fruit’ in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. He also gives each believer specific gifts so we edify one another. These gifts motivate us to share His teaching, encouragement, compassion, and other blessings that edify and strengthen the Body of Christ. To limit His fullness to speaking in other languages or falling on the floor seems short-sighted.

Perhaps this happens when the Bible is interpreted by experiences only. It could also happen with false associations. When my husband and I attended a church slo-pitch game for the first time, our team won for the first time. When we went to a second game, someone said, “So glad that you came, you are our good luck charms.”

I need to say these things to warn people about experiences. For instance, speaking in tongues can be valid, but at least one of the cults does it — and they deny Jesus as their Lord and Savior. I need a close relationship with God to be able to discern what is true and from Him, and what will lead me off on a tangent. For that, reading and studying the Bible is important, but so also is keeping short accounts regarding sin and being obedient to what I know is true. The Liar is continually trying to trip me up. The world’s ideas are also contrary to God’s ways.

PRAY: This day started with unexpected news that seems false. Jesus, I need You and Your Spirit to guide me, even in the little things, and to fill me so my attitudes and behavior honors You. I am rejoicing that You love me and want the best for me — and that blessings from You are always true, biblical, and bring You glory.