Acts 1:4,5, “…wait for the promise of the Father…for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with (in) the holy spirit. Verse 4 tells us that this was a promise from God.
The Greek word for “baptize” is Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #907 baptizo, and it means to make whelmed (fully wet). “Spirit” is Strong’s Greek word #4151, pneuma, referring to a current of air, breath, breeze, spirit, etc. Essentially, it represents an invisible force or power. So, the holy spirit is the power of God starting a new life in the believer which transforms the character into Christlikeness. Romans 12:1,2, “…present your bodies as a living sacrifice…be transformed by the renewal of your mind…”
Galatians 5:22-25, “…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…if we live by the Spirit, by the Spirit let us also walk.”
This gift was given to the apostles and those gathered in the upper room on the day of Pentecost, 50 days after Christ’s resurrection and after his ascension.
Acts 2:2, “and suddenly there came a sound from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were staying.”
At this point, the believers were baptized with the holy spirit and started a new life in the Lord.
Additional Resource:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #946: “How Can I Get the Holy Spirit?”
What the holy spirit is, what it does, who gets it and why
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episode #1325: “Does God’s Holy Spirit Speak to Us?”
Unfolding how the holy spirit does and does not function in our lives
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episode #1306: “Are Christians Really Baptized Into Christ?”
Comparing several biblical baptisms with baptism into Christ
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
For PDF Booklet: “The Holy Spirit” – describes the operation of God’s holy spirit in the lives of His people and how it is the Christian’s link to God.
For children, parents and Bible class teachers:
Animated video: What is the holy spirit?
Animated video: What does the holy spirit do?
Animated video: How do Christians receive the holy spirit?
