In the book of Acts there are five accounts of the Baptism in the Spirit. Here we see how the believers were baptised in the Holy Spirit, as well as the different manifestations or evidences of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit.
| Account | Manner Given | Manifestation(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Acts 2:1-6 (Pentecost) | Violent wind and tongues of fire | Speaking in tongues |
| Acts 8:14-19 (The Samaritans) | Laying on of hands | “Saw” a manifestation - vs.18 |
| Acts 9:17-19 (Saul’s baptism) | Laying on of hands | Healing {Paul also spoke in tongues 1 Cor 14:18} |
| Acts 10:44-46 (Cornelius’ household) | Preaching of the Word | Speaking in tongues and praising God |
| Acts 19:1-6 (The Ephesians) | Laying on of hands | Speaking in tongues and prophecy |
From these accounts we see that the most common manner that the Holy Spirit was given, was through the laying on of hands by believers who had already been baptised in the Holy Spirit. We also see that the most common manifestation of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit was speaking in tongues.
Why Should we Speak in Other Tongues?
It is the initial evidence/sign of the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4), The first Gentiles to be saved received the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues (Acts 10:44-46). Over 20 years after Pentecost, those who received the Holy Spirit, spoke in other tongues (Acts 19:6). The Apostle Paul was convinced of its benefits for he spoke in tongues “...more than all of [them]... (1 Corinthians 14:18). When you speak in tongues you speak to God in a spiritual prayer language which edifies you and builds you up. (1 Corinthians 14:2, 4). It gives you a new language for both prayer and praise (singing), giving thanks by the Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:14-15, 17; Acts 10:46). Paul encouraged: ‘Forbid not speaking in tongues” (1 Corinthians 14:39) It assists you in praying in line with God's will (Romans 8:26-27). It serves as a reminder of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling presence (Acts 2:4),
How to Receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit
• Simply ask in faith {believing} and God will answer you.
“How much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!"
Luke 11:13
As you ask, remember:
• He is a gift, not a reward. Don't be afraid that you will receive something false or evil (Luke 11:11-13).
• Your mind will not understand what you are saying when you pray in tongues (1 Corinthians 14:14). You are not mocking or cursing Jesus (1 Corinthians 12:3). You are in complete control of your spirit; therefore it is an act of your will. You choose to receive the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:32). You do the speaking, not angels or some supernatural force. He gives you the utterance/motivation inside you, but you need to speak out loud to release your prayer language (Acts 2:4).
After being baptised in the Spirit, the Bible encourages us to be continuously filled with the Holy Spirit .
“Ever be filled and stimulated with the Holy Spirit”
Ephesians 5:18 (AMP)
Being a Spirit-filled Christian is much more than simply having had an experience of Holy Spirit Baptism in the past! We are to live daily in the power and presence of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to lead us.