Chapter 3 - The Baptism of the Holy Spirit

INTRODUCTION

According to Henderson, what is the definition of “baptize” in Luke 3:16?

“to immerse, submerge, to be fully wet.”

How does this definition help us understand the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is being completely immersed in the Holy Spirit like being baptized in water is being completely immersed in water.

THE PERSON AND PRESENCE

How does Henderson compare the anointing oil in Exodus 30:25 and Exodus 30:33 to the anointing of the Holy Spirit on our lives today?

The anointing oil in the Old Testament was a special anointing oil that was only for God’s chosen people. The anointing of the Holy Spirit is only available to those today who are in covenant relationship with God.

What does it mean in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 that the Holy Spirit has sealed us?

One of the roles of the Holy Spirit in our lives is to seal us and to be a guarantee of our salvation.

NOT JUST WITH US, BUT IN US

What does Henderson say is the difference between the Old Testament experience with the Holy Spirit and the New Testament experience? Refer to John 14:16-17.

The Holy Spirit is not just with us, but is in us.

What are the two reasons why Henderson believes Jesus had to leave planet Earth and return back to Heaven?

The first reason is that a full atoning work needed to be done so the Holy Spirit would have a suitable resting place. Think of the dove in the story of Noah and the ark. The second reason Jesus said He had to go away was because He said He would pray to the Father, and the Father would then release the Holy Spirit into the earth.

NOT THE SAME THING

Does Henderson believe that the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is the same as salvation?

Henderson writes, “One of the main questions people ask is if this baptism of the Holy Spirit is the same as the salvation experience. I would definitely say it is not the same thing.”

How does Acts 19:1-7 backup Henderson’s claim?

The disciples in Ephesus had a salvation experience, but had not heard about the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues. After Paul prayed for them, they received the Baptism.

TONGUES AS A RIVER

Henderson writes, “Biblically, the gift of tongues can be the initial outflow of the Holy Spirit as He fills and baptizes us.”

How does Henderson use John 7:37-39 to describe the outflow of tongues? What does he compare it to?

He compares it to Jesus’ promise that out of believer’s bellies would flow rivers of living water.

THIRST FOR GOD HIMSELF

Henderson states, “The first thing is to develop a thirst for God and who He is.”

ASKING TO RECEIVE

What are the two vital things that Henderson says are vital to receiving the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?

First, we must be thirsty. Second, we must ask.

ASKING IN FAITH

What is it that moves the heart of God according to Henderson?

Faith.

ACTIVELY RECEIVING AND SPEAKING

What does the word “utterance” mean in Acts 2:4?

It means to enunciate. It means to form words properly and release them clearly.

Henderson writes, “One other thing I want to mention here is that when we thirst, ask and receive the infilling and baptism of the Holy Spirit, as we begin to speak, we must be willing to allow unknown sounds to come out of our mouths. This is the intimidating part. As you or I begin to make sounds that are in an unknown language to us, it can seem strange and awkward. Yet this is the gift of tongues operating in us. We cannot evaluate what this gift may sound like in the natural.” How do we know whether we are trying to speak something out of our own mind, or whether it is truly the language of the Holy Spirit?

This is where faith comes in. The Holy Spirit gives the unction, but we must release the gift of tongues and receive. Repeating certain words or sounds is not needed. We just need to release the gift by faith when the Holy Spirit gives us the unction.