Thursday 11 August, 2016

19 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road to Ephesus. When he arrived, he found some believers there. 2 He asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?” “No,” they answered. “We haven’t even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?” “John’s baptism,” they replied. 4 Paul said, “John baptized people, calling them to turn away from their sins. He told them to believe in the one who was coming after him. Jesus is that one.” 5 After hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 Paul placed his hands on them. Then the Holy Spirit came on them. They spoke in languages they had not known before. They also prophesied. 7 There were about 12 men in all.

It is interesting to me to note that, of all the questions Paul could have asked that was recorded for us of these disciples, it was, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” (Acts 19:2)

This must have been a crucial question not only for them but for us to read today. The presence and power of the Holy Spirit in us is crucial for the Christian life.

Where do I need more awareness, understanding, or power from the Holy Spirit in my Christian walk? These men had areas of understanding that were lacking, but they were also given someone to learn from in the Apostle Paul. Who can I learn from as well in the areas that I lack?

God, I seek you for clear answers to these questions as they have arisen from this passage. Both the what of my Christian life and development that is in need, and the “who” that will help me along on my walk. Amen.

Written by Ps. Rob Waugh