Bible Passage: Galatians 5:22-23
Introduction
THE baptism of the Holy Spirit with evidence of speaking in tongues is not without controversy even today. The controversy is, however, man made. God’s word is crystal clear. “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance” Acts 2:4.
Acts 19:2-6 “They said we have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. When Paul had laid hands upon them the Holy Ghost came upon them and they spoke with tongues and prophesied”.
Outlines
Baptism and Tongues
A baptism in the Holy Ghost without speaking in new tongues is conceivable only as a concept and doubtful in practical terms. All scriptures make the speaking in an unknown tongue the required evidence of Baptism in the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:1-8, Acts 1:8. There is a clear distinction between water baptism and baptism of the Holy Ghost when He Himself gives “utterance” – Acts 2:4
The Fruit of the Spirit
There is only one single fruit of the Holy Spirit made up of nine separate strands or elements or components. They are all interrelated and closely knit. The fruit brings all nine, even when some strands seem predominant. The baptism of the Holy Spirit and the fruit of the spirit thereof produce good works or good fruits. Jesus desires much fruit – John 15:8 and by their fruits you shall know them – Matthew 7:16. The chief strand of the fruit of the spirit, so to say, is love. It is listed first – Corinthians 13:13, 1 John 3:14, 4:7. The other eight strands are joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. The flesh cannot achieve these. It has to be by the Spirit.
Conclusion
Every child of God should receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the Fruit of the Spirit. Then and only then can we be vessels unto honour. You will receive Him today in the name of Jesus. And the evidence will manifest.
