The kingdom of God began, in its seed form, when Jesus was baptized in the Holy Spirit and began his ministry. Even during his lifetime, he began to give this power to others—notably the 12 and the 70, as he sent them out to villages, towns, and cities.
However, the New Covenant promise from God is, “I will pour out my Spirit on all people” (Joel 2:28). That is, all who will “ask” and “obey” God will receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire. It is not only for a select few, for prophets, for men, or for adults.
This pouring out began on the Day of Pentecost, when the 120 in the upper room were baptized in the Holy Spirit and fire. Then, through their combined efforts and the preaching of Peter, they added another 3,000 to the church that very day. All these 3,000 likewise received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Peter said, “Repent therefore, and be baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Keep Reading…
This in-depth Bible teaching appeared on the blog for the National Prayer Chapel.
