24 May 2021 - Wait for the PROMISE

Jesus’s final word to his disciples is “wait”. Acts 1:4 (NKJV) “wait for the Promise of the Father”

Jesus’ final instruction was to wait. Wait for the PROMISE. The promise of the Holy Spirit. The Bible refers to three baptisms. Many Christians are unfamiliar with the baptism in (with) the Holy Spirit. In fact, most believers only know about water baptism.

Baptism of the Holy Spirit Note this is the baptism OF the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit baptises us in Jesus. It is referred to the salvation. This is when you accepted Jesus as your personal saviour. 1 Corinthians 12:13 (NKJV) “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit.”

When you experienced salvation, you were baptised into the body of Christ. The Holy Spirit is the agent who did the baptising.

_Water baptism_This is baptism referred to Mark 16:16 (NKJV) “He who believes and is baptized will be saved” This baptism symbolises our new life in Christ. Through water baptism you are saying to the world and to God, I am dying to myself and my way of doing things and I am being raised to live my life God’s way.

Now let’s get to the Baptism that took place on the day of Pentecost. The Baptism IN (WITH) the Holy Spirit Jesus baptises us in the Holy Spirit. In Matthew 3:11 (NKJV) John writes the following; “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He (Jesus) will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Acts 2:37-38 (NKJV) “Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Peter outlines three baptisms. Repent This is the baptism of salvation. Be baptized. Peter urges his listeners to follow Jesus’ example by submitting themselves to water baptism. Receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus commanded His disciples to wait in Jerusalem until the promised Holy Spirit came to be clothed in heavenly power and to be empowered.

Acts 1:8 (NKJV) “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you”

Many are living lives of defeat and failure. Open your heart and be empowered with the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is wonderful to have God the Holy Spirit as a best friend. Pray and receive the Holy Spirit today.