What exactly happens spiritually when you become a Christian? Drawing from Acts 1 and other key scriptures, Dr. Stanley explains how the Holy Spirit places each believer into a permanent, inseparable union with Christ at the moment of salvation. Discover the biblical truth behind this vital work of the Spirit and distinguish spiritual baptism from the filling of the Holy Spirit.
Sermon Outline
What does it mean to be baptized by the Holy Spirit? This week, Dr. Stanley takes a closer look at one of the most misunderstood aspects of the Spirit’s work and what believers need to know about it.
Key Passage: Acts 1:1-5
Supporting Passages: Acts 2:1-4; 1 Corinthians 12:11-14
Understanding the transformative power of the Holy Spirit is essential to our Christian walk.
“The church isn’t brick and mortar. It’s a body of people who have been born again and baptized by the Holy Spirit into Christ.”
What is the baptizing work of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:1-5)?
The term “baptize” comes from the Greek word baptizo, which means “to submerge or immerse.”
Through baptism, the Spirit places every believer into a new union with Jesus and His church (1 Cor. 12:13).
The baptism of the Spirit ...
Happens once, at the moment of salvation.
Is not commanded. It is something God does for every believer.
Establishes our position in the body of Christ.
Centers on our relationship to God, which can never be severed.
Is God’s work, not ours. We simply receive it.
Happens to every single believer without exception.
The filling of the Spirit ...
Happens repeatedly throughout the believer’s life.
Is commanded. Paul teaches believers that they are to be filled.
Is the provision we need for daily life and service.
Is affected by our daily choices.
Calls for our participation. It’s the Spirit’s work, but we open the door.
Is available to every believer, but not every believer walks in it.
“Through the power of the Holy Spirit, our life can make an impact and bring God glory.”
What does this mean practically for believers?
The baptizing work of the Holy Spirit places us in union with Jesus Christ—it’s an indestructible relationship.
The Holy Spirit determines which believers receive which gifts, and He exercises them through us.
When we hold on to sin, we grieve the Spirit, and our gifts stop producing the fruit they’re meant to bear.
After Watching
Whether you feel close to God or not, remember that the moment you trusted Jesus as your Savior, the Spirit joined you to Christ. That bond can’t be undone. There’s nothing left to earn or to prove. You’re already His. Let that truth anchor you today and every day.
Being filled with the Holy Spirit calls for daily dependence. Use the following prayer (or one in your own words) to ask for His help: Holy Spirit, fill me with Your power today and work through me so that all I do brings glory to God. In Jesus’ name, amen.
