The church age started with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4). The Apostles and Disciples tarried at Jerusalem just as Jesus instructed until they were baptized by the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-8). The church did not start until they were baptized with the Holy Spirit.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is a promise for everyone who professes Jesus as Saviour and Lord. It is therefore your right and heritage as God’s child. if you earnestly desire this glorious experience, ask the Father for it and you will receive. (Luke 19:9-13).
We have all heard about the Holy Spirit but not all of us really understand the subject clearly. In order to understand this subject well , we will take a look at what the Holy Spirit is not.
Let us consider some of the prevalent but incorrect belief by majority of people.
What the Holy Spirit is not
The event in the upper room on the day of Pentecost have left some confusing the signs of the Holy Spirit for who the Holy Spirit is.
- The Holy Spirit is not a fire (He does not have a literal fire)
- The Holy Spirit is not wind
- The Holy Spirit is not sound
- The Holy Spirit is not an angel
- The Holy Spirit is not tongues
- The Holy Spirit is not a force
- The Holy Spirit is not an influence
- The Holy Spirit is not a ghost (He is not dead)
- The Holy Spirit is not a visitor. He has been sent to stay permanently with us. John 14:16-18
A classic example of what the Holy Spirit is not is in the story of Elijah as recorded in Kings 19:11-18
