What does it really mean to minister? Especially as a woman? Luke 8:1–3 gives us…
Empowered for More. Acts 19:1-7
The Christian journey goes beyond salvation—it’s about experiencing the fullness of God’s power.
Acts 19:1-7 illustrates this when Paul met twelve disciples in Ephesus who had received John’s baptism but had not yet been baptised in the Holy Spirit. This passage highlights the importance of both water baptism and the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which brings transformation and empowerment.
Waiting for God’s Timing.
Paul’s journey to Ephesus reminds us that even good intentions must align with God’s timing. In Acts 16:6, the Holy Spirit prevented Paul from preaching in Asia, leading him instead to Philippi. This delay was not a denial but preparation. When the right time came, Paul returned to Ephesus, where God had already been working.
This teaches us that walking in step with the Spirit requires trust in His timing. Paul emphasises this in Galatians 5:16-25:
“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh…
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires…
Since we live by the Spirit, let us walk in step with the Spirit.”
The Holy Spirit leads us away from sin and into a life marked by love, joy, peace, and self-control. When we follow His guidance, we align ourselves with God’s heart and purpose and our actions are transformed from dead works into good works!
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is More Than an Experience.
Many assume that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is only for pastors or church leaders, but the Bible shows that it is for all believers. The Holy Spirit empowers everyday people, in all areas of life, to live boldly for Christ.
John’s Baptism of Water vs. the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
John’s baptism focused on repentance and preparing hearts for Jesus. Water baptism is an outward declaration of an inward transformation—it signifies turning from self-reliance to total dependence on Jesus.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit, however, brings divine empowerment. At salvation, we are sealed by the Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14) and gain access to a relationship with God.
And the Holy Spirit starts to do an inward, private transformative work in our lives, and baptism in the Spirit is a separate and ongoing experience that strengthens us to live out our faith boldly (Acts 1:8).
The Holy Spirit is about transformation and empowerment.
What is the Baptism of Fire?
The Bible refers to a “baptism of fire” in different contexts. Some see it as the tongues of fire at Pentecost (Acts 2:3), others as the Holy Spirit’s refining power, and still others as the trials believers face. We also see that John the Baptist spoke of fire as a symbol of the final judgement (1 Corinthians 3).
Receiving the Holy Spirit: What We Learn from Ephesus.
The believers in Ephesus received the Holy Spirit in a clear, tangible way:
- Faith in Jesus – They believed in Christ and sought more.
- Water Baptism – They publicly expressed their faith.
- Laying on of Hands – Paul prayed for them to receive the Holy Spirit.
- Signs of the Spirit – They spoke in tongues and prophesied.
While tongues and prophecy often accompanied the Holy Spirit’s baptism, they are not the only signs. The greatest evidence is boldness to proclaim the gospel.
In Luke 1:41, Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, immediately recognised Jesus as her Lord and Saviour. The Holy Spirit always leads us to glorify Christ. Any other gifts are secondary, and we cannot boast in them.
Living a Spirit-Empowered Life.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is distinct from salvation and is available to all believers. It is not a one-time event but a continuous experience that strengthens our faith and equips us for good works in our daily lives.
Just as Paul encouraged the Ephesians to receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit, we too should seek to walk in His power every day.
Are you ready to step into the fullness of what God has for you? The Holy Spirit is available to empower you for a life of boldness, purpose, and impact!
Great post. I used to be checking continuously this weblog and I am inspired!
Extremely useful information specifically the closing phase 🙂 I
maintain such information much. I used to be seeking this
particular info for a very long time. Thanks and best of luck.