Sermon Central
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Do You Even Have To Ask?
Contributed by Jeffrey Sims on Jan 9, 2024 (message contributor)
Summary: If we have been baptized with the Holy Spirit then there should be evidence of its work in our lives.
Do you have to Ask?
Introduction,
Scripture tells us that when we repent and are baptized that we will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit... If that's the case, why aren't we showing the fruits and gifts that come with it?
Fortunately, we’re not the first ones to wrestle with this... Read Acts 19:1-3
So, What was John's Baptism? In Matthew 3 John the Baptist said that He baptized with water but one was coming after him that would baptize with fire. Jesus told us that He would send the Holy Spirit to help us and guide us.
? Jesus told the disciples to go and wait... Luke 24:49 says Listen carefully: I am sending the Promise of My Father [the Holy Spirit] upon you; but you are to remain in the city [of Jerusalem] until you are clothed (fully equipped) with power from on high.” (AMP)
? Acts 2:38 Says Repent and be baptized every one of you and you SHALL receive the Gift of the Holy Spirit!
? So It stands to reason... If you are a follower of Jesus then you have received the Holy Spirit
Evidence of the Manifestation of the Holy Spirit'
? 2 things Gifts & Fruits
? Gifts: wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment of the spirits, tongues, and interpretation.
? Fruits: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
? If you have been baptized with the Holy Spirit your actions , deeds and words should be evidence enough for others to know.
Our Salvation Does not come from Baptism
? Baptism is not where our salvation comes from
? Baptism by water shows our faith in Jesus and His saving power.
? scripture says that it is our belief in Jesus is what saves us.
? Romans 10:9-10 - Confess with your mouth "Jesus is Lord" and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
? Acts 16:30-31- Paul & Silas in prison and a violent earthquake shook the doors loose... jailer was afraid, and Paul said don't worry we are still here.... Then He asked them "What must I do to be saved?" ... Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved... You and your household...
? Our Salvation comes from repentance and belief in Jesus Christ
Conclusion
? So I guess I said all that to say this, The true sign of a Believer is a changed life
? The question we must ask ourselves is this, When people see us in our everyday lives do they see the evidence that we are followers of Christ... Basically do you have evidence of the Holy Spirit...( its much more than just getting baptized in water)
? So I guess we should ask ourselves this question ... Have I received the Holy Spirit and where is it evident in my life?
