Unfortunately, the subject expressed in the title is something many Christians would rather avoid. Given the un-scriptural emotionalism and radical manifestations that are found in some Charismatic meetings, the concerns are understandable.However, even Jesus Christ, God incarnate and the perfect, sinless Savior was empowered and equipped with the Holy Spirit before starting His earthly ministry (Matthew 3:16,17).
Jesus Christ commanded His disciples to “wait for the Promise of the Father…[for] you will shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you” (Acts 1:4-8). Were not these the same disciples who had fled in fear and disowned their Lord? How could these same disciples now proclaim the gospel with power and miraculous demonstrations? The answer is the same for them as it is for us. Only when we are equipped and empowered by the Holy Spirit will we accomplish the tasks that will bring glory to God. Even waiting on tables should not be originate in the flesh (Acts 6:3).
There is much false teaching concerning the Holy Spirit. There is no biblical evidence that the fullness or baptism of the Holy Spirit is the exclusive domain of one particular gift, fruit or ministry of the Holy Spirit. Numerous gifts of the Holy Spirit were demonstrated at Pentecost (Acts 2) and the others followed in rapid succession. In obedience to our Lord, let us be continuously (Acts 13:52; Ephesians 5:18) filled with the Holy Spirit that we may complete the challenges and opportunities that come our way.
Calvary Chapel of Richmond is a local fellowship of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. Our supreme desire is to know Christ and be conformed to His image by the power of the Holy Spirit through the continuous study and application of God's Word.
