“Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?”
Many sincere people believe in Jesus but have never been asked the question Paul asked the disciples at Ephesus: ‘Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?’
The New Testament presents the Holy Spirit as more than an idea or quiet assumption. He is God’s gift, personally received, bringing a clear and life-changing experience.
The promise is for those God calls
On the day of Pentecost, Peter told the people to repent, be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. He then said the promise was for them, their children and all who were afar off.
You do not earn the Holy Spirit by becoming good enough. You come to God with faith, repentance and a willing heart, trusting Him to give what He promised.
“Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ... and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”
Speaking in tongues is the scriptural evidence
In Acts 2, the disciples spoke with other tongues when they were filled with the Holy Spirit. In Acts 10, Peter knew the Gentiles had received the same gift because he heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. In Acts 19, the Holy Spirit came upon the believers and they spoke with tongues.
This was not a language they had studied or an emotional performance. The Spirit gave the utterance as they yielded their voice to God.
How should I seek God?
Come sincerely and expect God to answer. Ask Him for the Holy Spirit. Worship Him aloud rather than waiting silently for something to happen. You speak, but allow the unfamiliar words God gives to come without trying to control or understand them.
You do not need to copy another person or force an experience. Keep your attention on God, trust His promise and allow Him to lead you.
Receiving is the beginning
The Holy Spirit gives power for a new life, prayer and witness. Receiving Him is not a badge of superiority; it is the beginning of learning to walk with God.
We continue by praying in the Spirit, reading Scripture, gathering with other believers and allowing God to change our character.
Questions for reflection
- 1.Have I personally received the Holy Spirit as the believers did in Acts?
- 2.Am I willing to ask God and trust His promise?
- 3.Would I value someone praying with me and explaining the Scriptures?
You are welcome to contact us if you would like someone to pray with you to receive the Holy Spirit. There is no pressure and no performance—only a simple opportunity to seek God and see His promise fulfilled.