Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? (3)
“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Ac 1:8
The baptism of the Holy Ghost can be received by any of the following means:
1. Through the preaching of the gospel
“While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening to the message.” Ac 10:44. This is the centurion Cornelius and his family. No one lay hands on them. Through hearing the preaching of the gospel, they got baptised with the Holy Ghost at the same time they were saved. This is not a common occurrence, but sometimes the Holy choses to do it this way.
2. Through prayers
”And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Ac 2:1-4. The disciples were gathered together, and were praying with one accord. Then the Holy Ghost came down and baptise them.
“And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.” Ac 4:31
3. By laying on of hands
“And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking with tongues and prophesying.” Ac 19:6. The people of Samaria got born again as a result of Philip’s preaching. They did not received the Holy Ghost. Then Peter and John came from Jerusalem. ”Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit.” Ac 8:17
Saul after his conversion, received the Holy Ghost baptism through laying of hands. “So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Ac 9:17. To receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost after being born again, all you have to do is get someone who is filled with the Holy Ghost to lay hands on you.
If you have been born again and yet to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, now is the time to receive it. It is the promise of the Father. Ac 1:4. It is a good gift from God. Lk 11:13. It is God’s promise to you and your children. Ac 2:38-39. Ask God in faith, don’t doubt, don’t fear. The Holy Ghost baptism is God living in you. Pray a prayer of faith like this:
Thank you Father, for making me a member of your family. You promised to send the Holy Ghost to all who believe in Jesus Christ, your only Son. Father, I believe and I have made Jesus Christ my Lord and Saviour. Baptise me with the Holy Spirit now Father, as you promised. Thank you for Holy Ghost baptism, in Jesus Name.
Start praising and thanking God after the prayer. If you feel like singing, sing and don’t stop. If you feel like talking in a new language, open your mouth and let the Holy Ghost fill it.
