As a matter of fact – Elishama is an interesting character not because he’s an interesting person so much. In fact, there is not a lot known about Elishama. We do know he was a scribe and secretary that is mentioned by name briefly in scripture (Jeremiah 36:12). What makes this obscure Bible character interesting is the extra-biblical evidence that is connected with him and in turn, the historical reliability of Scripture he gives us.
In 1986 outside of Jerusalem a clay seal was found that said “Elishama, servant of the king,” proving that he was indeed a scribe in the exact time setting and situation that Scripture describes. That is one more piece of evidence that all of the scripture is God-breathed, even down to the tiniest detail and seemingly “insignificant” person! Good stuff!
Please pray – Lord God, Heavenly Father, thank You for Your tender mercy and the Grace afforded me. Lord let Your Love shine through me and allow me to receive You with a joyful heart. Release Your Holy Spirit and fill me Father with Your Love. Give me the power to walk this journey You have planned for me and help me stay on this path that leads me to You. I ask this in Jesus name, Amen.
During fellowship with a few good guys that love the Lord and are actively seeking Him, a discussion came up about two topics. First, the always topical subject and in some circles controversial, the gift of speaking in tongues. As a charismatic full gospel believer, I have no issues with this gift but this seems to be a very troubling or difficult topic for some folks to grasp. Let me say this in the very beginning, it is not a requirement of Salvation or any baptisms, just to set things straight. However, there are those who believe it is no longer relevant or it was a timing thing for the day of Pentecost and it served its purpose for that particular instance and over the years in some disciplines (and a lot of Pastors), are attempting to explained it away as irrelevant after the day of Pentecost. It’s been said that there is no need for the gift of tongues any longer; “it’s served its purpose”. Just being told this makes me question a Pastors logic and where and who his influences are. Seriously, think about it, there is a promise from Jesus and a part of the Trinity that is no longer needed or relevant!? That to me is harder to believe than speaking in a Holy language. When I’m approached about the Holy Spirit and the speaking of tongues I can say for certainty that it is real. How can I prove it? Very easily actually, I could speak in the angelic language as proof but some would think it to be gibberish so I’ll turn to Scripture instead. It’s all the proof I need but I also know it needs to be explained. Allow me to make more sense of those scriptures that speak specifically on this subject. But before I forget I need to mention the second topic we were discussing during our fellowship because I believe they go hand in hand. That is, the topic of baptism. When it comes to talking about the Holy Ghost, for me, it’s always a joyful and eye opening revelation. This is going to be fun!
So let the fun begin with a definition. Definitions allow us understanding of context and meaning.
Baptism: noun; symbolizing purification or regeneration and admission
Greek: Baptizien or Baptizmo; immersed, consumed, covered.
There are a lot of Christians that are missing out on the fullness of the promise Jesus made before His ascension. But before we go there, let’s look at the baptisms we receive as believers. That’s right, baptisms; plural – more than one, in fact, there are three and many Christians don’t realize it only because of the doctrine some churches practice and teach or possibly Pastors overlook this particular topic or elect to “not go there”. There is a Trinity of baptisms. Is it so hard to believe that God would be that obvious to have a trinity of baptisms? I’m sure this was intentional. I can scripturally prove it, even with events in the Old Testament. There is a process of our redemption and we must follow through according to scripture. The first baptism is in Jesus. Remember the definition of baptism, “immersed”, we are immersed in Jesus, consumed in His love and forgiveness. Our salvation is the first baptism, by accepting Jesus as our Savior. The Holy Spirit baptizes us in Jesus. We become consumed in Jesus as a part of the “body of Christ” by the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:12-13, 12 The body is a unit, though it is comprised of many parts. And although its parts are many, they all form one body. So it is with Christ. 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free, and we were all given one Spirit to drink…
Baptism of the Holy Spirit is Him immersing us in Jesus at the time we accept Jesus as our Savior. Once we believe and are saved we are to be baptized in water.
Matthew 28:18 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
Remember the Trinity here in this verse. The water baptism is a separation of our old self; our flesh from our new spirit. All things old washed away, all things are new as a new born babe in Christ. Now, we have established two baptisms thus far, right? This is where most Christians would have me stop with the two baptisms. I can’t. It’s not biblical. In some circles of uncertainty, even from Pastors, I would get quoted the scripture from Ephesians 4:5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; I’m told, “there it is, written in the bible that there is one baptism!” It does say that, but it also says in this verse there is one Lord. We know and believe the Trinity and that they all agree as one. There is a Trinity of baptisms also that all agree as one.
1 John 5:7, 7 For there are three (Trinity) that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word (Jesus), and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. 8 And there are three (Trinity) that bear witness in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the blood (Jesus); and these three agree in one.
Ok, I’m going to swing for the fence and knock it out of the park with this one,
thank you Lord. Look at 1 Corinthians.
1 Corinthians10:1-2, 1 For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. 2 They were all baptized into Moses (God’s messenger, baptized in his belief of the one true God) in the cloud (the Holy Spirit) and in the sea (water baptism).
Remember the verse in Matthew 28:18? The baptism of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. There are three baptisms and we’ll see how it’s important for us in just a minute but first let’s move on to Acts 19;
Acts 19:1-6 1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive (baptized in) the Holy Spirit when you believed?” They answered, “No, we have not 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’s baptism was a baptism of repentance (water baptism). He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” 5 On hearing this, they were baptized (Saved) in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Afterwards) 6 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, (filled them) and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.
Paul, while at Ephesus, found some disciples who looked to Jesus as the Messiah. They believed who He was but they had not been led to expect the miraculous powers of the Holy Ghost, they were not informed of Him, nor had they been informed that the gospel was especially the service of the Spirit. Is it safe to say the pastor missed this important part of the sermon? And how many pastors miss it today? Paul stepped in and shows them that John never intended those he baptized (immersed in water), should rest there, but told them that they should “believe on Him who should come after him”, that is, Christ Jesus.
Matthew 3:11, 11 I baptize you with water for repentance, but after me will come One more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
They thankfully accepted the good news and were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, meaning becoming immersed as one in the body of Christ. Now if that isn’t enough, let’s look at:
Acts 8:12-17, 12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, (received Grace) both men and women. 13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized (saved), he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. (Holy Spirit) 14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the Word of God (who is the Word? Jesus is the Word, so received Jesus), they sent unto them Peter and John: 15 Who, when they arrived, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost (filling of the Spirit). 16 For as yet (after salvation) He was fallen upon none of them: “only” they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.”
Philip basically had an alter call. They had them receive Jesus as their Savior. But it doesn’t end there, once we accept Jesus and are immersed (baptized) in His Grace and forgiveness we are to profess our salvation by water baptism. This represents our proclamation of our belief in Jesus as the Savior and becoming new in Christ through forgiveness.
Christians are being taught this is all you have to do but the scripture clearly teaches us there is one more step and to miss out on this is not what God would have us do. He knows sometimes we need more of Him. He’s very clear on this, so let me break it down for us, ok?
John 16:7, 7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you
…and…
John 14:12, 12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.
So Jesus is informing us that when He leaves this earth He will send the Comforter (His promise) and we will be doing the same works as Jesus only greater things because when Jesus goes back to the Father, He is sending His Spirit to fill us and give us the power to do these things and all the works we are commissioned to do. How else are we to do these “greater things” than what Jesus had done unless we have the fullness of His Spirit? Ok, what have we learned so far…
- We learned our definition for baptism is translated from Baptizmo: immersed, consumed, covered completely.
- We’ve learned when we accept Jesus as our Savior, we are baptized (or immersed) by the Holy Spirit in Jesus, which is salvation, meaning we are immersed into the body of Christ.
Acts 19:5 On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Romans 12:5 so in Christ we who are many are one body, and each member belongs to one another.
- We have learned the baptism by water is repentance, the remission of sins, our profession of faith and it signifies a cleansing; meaning out with the old in with the new.
Titus 3:5 He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. (renew: Greek; anakainoó – make new; change; amend;).
- And finally we have learned there is a third baptism. We know that the Holy Spirit gives us power, encouragement, guidance and comfort. We found that Jesus baptizes us with (in) the Holy Spirit.
John 1:33 I myself did not know Him, but the One who sent me to baptize with water told me, “The man on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is He who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.”
The promise of our Lord:
Acts 1:4-5 And while staying with them he charged them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “You heard from me, for John baptized with water, but before many days you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
The baptism in the Holy Spirit is a blessed experience and is a crucial step just as our initial conversion experience was. Notice what Jesus says to His disciples in Acts 1:4-5. It is so important that Jesus “charged them” or commanded them to not go without the baptism of the Holy Spirit. We cannot be gradually baptized in the Holy Ghost, just as we cannot be gradually baptized in water or even gradually receive Jesus as our Saviour. Certainly we can be gradually filled with God’s Spirit, but one day that “filling” will spill over into a baptism or complete immersion in the Holy Ghost. Many believe they don’t need to ask for this experience because they think they receive the Holy Spirit at conversion. While this is true in the sense that the Holy Spirit comes upon us to plant the seed of life in Christ in us, and to give us comfort, it is not true that we are completely filled with His Spirit unless we ask for it.
Luke 11:13 …How much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?
Many people have been “born again” and have the Holy Spirit working in their lives, but have not received the baptism in the Holy Ghost which equips them for service and gives them the power needed to overcome in Christ.
Acts 1:5 and 8:1 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost “not many days hence”.
(meaning after baptism in Christ, baptism in water and not at conversion)…
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
As a Christian, being filled by the Holy Spirit gives us the power of God in being able to overcome sin, temptations, and allows us the courage to witness as well as to know God in His fullness. He gives us the gifts to teach, prophesy, speak in tongues, to be Apostles and evangelists, disciples and servants of the Lord. We need to ask God for the baptism in the Holy Ghost. If Jesus and the disciples of the Lord needed to be filled with the Holy Ghost, then how much more do we need to be filled in our day? We should not allow the pulpit or daily conversations with lay persons direct us from the baptism in the Holy Ghost and preventing you from seeking this wonderful blessing. Do not accept the doctrine of man’s interpretation. Seek the Lord with a humbled heart for the truth for what was God breathed and clearly documented by those who knew Jesus better than any of us. Ask Jesus to baptize you in the Holy Spirit. It is done by Jesus so we can trust it’s not demonic or weird. Come to Him with an open heart and mind with a willingness to obey. The acceptance of this baptism is by faith, the same as it is when receiving Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Nothing funny will happen to you as some may have you believe, on the contrary, if the Holy Spirit fills you to the point where you can’t contain it then you are being blessed the way God wants you blessed. He will use those who yield to Him.
We have come a long way to get to the second topic. But I feel it’s so important to set the ground work for this topic. The Scriptures clearly show us there is more than one kind of baptism. They received Christ as the first baptism and then had received water baptism, but not the Holy Ghost baptism until Paul laid his hands on them and prayed. Once received, we see certain gifts of the Holy Spirit accompany this baptism, (not always), as they spoke in tongues and prophesied. Having the Holy Spirit living in us is one thing but being filled until an outpouring of His Spirit, is another.
Acts 2:2-4 is the day of Pentecost, the most controversial scripture I’ve had to explain in my entire Christian life. And why? We all know this story and there are those who will believe everything in the scriptures, including healing and prophesying but will not accept tongues. Even though these are “spiritual gifts” given to us by a spiritual God, they cannot understand that Spirit filled Christians are able to speak to our Father in a language given to us by the Holy Spirit. Their doctrine explains tongues as the day of Pentecost and the utterance of tongues as it is being led by the Holy Ghost, was for that day and that particular instance only but yet Paul says this,
1 Corinthians 13:1-2, 1 If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.
Obviously his point is Love should be the focus of these gifts because it is Love that is allowing us this privilege. Notice though he is saying “if” he speaks in tongues of men or of “angels”, meaning he can and he will speak in either language. It is a choice to do so. It doesn’t mean its uncontrollable, the Spirit isn’t going to make you burst out in an uncontrolled, sporadic verbal onslaught of syllables at a gas station. No it’s a language that is purposeful and meaningful directed to God and orchestrated by His Holy Spirit. Paul, the most accredited Apostle, wrote,
1 Corinthians 14:1-2, 1 Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. 2 For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit.
If it was a timing thing for just the day of Pentecost, then why would he teach this gift and then explain what this gift was if speaking in tongues was irrelevant. Paul said,
1 Corinthians 14:5, 18:5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: and; 18 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all.
The essence of being baptized with the Holy Spirit is when a person, who is already a believer, receives extraordinary spiritual power, not just gifts. We are commissioned to minister and to witness and this we know but how should we be prepared or be guarded? How do we keep ourselves from harm’s way? First, the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the gifts we receive are a matter of empowerment. It gives us security that we can take onto the battlefield and be victorious.
Ephesians 3:16….that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man.
Secondly, although speaking in tongues is a communication process between us and God, we need to be built up also and God understood this therefore allows us the gift to speak to Him in a language only He understands. Because of this, we become stronger in faith and are ready for battle.
1 Corinthians 14:4, 4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself…
Then, the Holy Spirit gives us confidence to witness by us allowing Him to flow through us for the benefit of the unbeliever.
Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Third, a new power to prophesy. Paul explains how important the gift of prophesy is. The filling of the Holy Spirit will allow such power to be released.
1 Corinthians 14:5 I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.
Finally, the baptism in the Holy Spirit is almost always associated with an extraordinary power for ministry. A Spirit filled ministry has defeated the enemy every time and to go into battle without being filled with Him is spiritual suicide.
Luke 24:49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.
Now, for the rest of who believe the outpouring of the Spirit and speaking in tongues was a dated phenomenon for the day of Pentecost only and is no longer needed or is not relevant for our daily walk, the Holy Spirit has put this theory to rest as well. First of all, allow me to say this comment hurts my spirit and it grieves the Holy One who lives in me, for anyone to be bold enough to teach that there is a part of the Father or the Son or the Holy Ghost that is not relevant or no longer needed. I’m sure this idea is taught but a discerning Christian will learn the truth and apply it to their walk. We are to be good stewards of the Scripture.
Titus 1:7-9 For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it Our Lord is the same every day, then and now.
So with that said, I want to show the timeline of the day of Pentecost to the time Paul spoke and taught about speaking tongues. I’ve highlighted in yellow the times of Pentecost and the time Paul preached about tongues. Just scroll down, I’ll wait….
Bible Timeline
All Dates are Approximate
| 6 BC | Birth of John the Baptist | Luke 1, John 1:6 |
| 6 BC | Augustus Taxes the Roman Empire | Luke 2 |
| 5 BC | Birth of Jesus | Matthew 1, Mark 1, Luke 2:6, John 1:14 |
| 5 BC | Visit of the Magi | Matthew 2 |
| 5 BC | Escape to Egypt | Matthew 2:13 |
| 4 BC | Slaughter of Infants | Matthew 2:16 |
| 4 BC | Return to Nazareth | Matthew 2:23 |
| 8 AD | The Boy Jesus at the Temple | Luke 2:41 |
| 26 AD | John the Baptist Prepares the Way | Matthew 3, Mark 1:4, Luke 3, John 1:15 |
| 26 AD | The Baptism of Jesus | Matthew 3:13, Mark 1:9, Luke 3:21 |
| 27 AD | Temptation of Jesus | Matthew 4, Mark 1:12, Luke 4 |
| 27 AD | Jesus Calls his First Disciples | Matthew 4:18, Mark 1:16, Luke 5 |
| 27 AD | Wedding at Cana | John 2 |
| 27 AD | Jesus Teaches Nicodemus | John 3 |
| 27 AD | Jesus Testifies to the Samaritan Woman | John 4 |
| 27 AD | Sermon on the Mount | Matthew 5 – 7 |
| 28 AD | Instructions on Prayer | Luke 11 |
| 28 AD | Jesus Ministers in Galilee | Matthew 8, Mark 2, Luke 4:14 |
| 28 AD | The Pool of Bethesda | John 5 |
| 28 AD | Jesus Lord of the Sabbath | Matthew 12, Mark 3, Luke 6 |
| 28 AD | Jesus Answers John’s Disciples | Matthew 11, Luke 7 |
| 28 AD | Jesus Speaks Many Parables | Matthew 13, Mark 4, Luke 8 |
| 28 AD | Jesus Heals a Demoniac | Matthew 8:28, Mark 5, Luke 8:26 |
| 28 AD | Jesus Heals a Paralytic | Matthew 9 |
| 29 AD | Jesus Sends out His Twelve Apostles | Matthew 10, Mark 6 |
| 29 AD | John the Baptist Beheaded | Matthew 14, Mark 6:14 |
| 29 AD | Jesus Feeds the 5,000 | Matthew 14:15, Mark 6:30, Luke 9, John 6 |
| 29 AD | Teachings on Clean and Unclean | Matthew 15, Mark 7 |
| 29 AD | Peter’s Confession of Christ | Matthew 16, Mark 8, Luke 9:18 |
| 29 AD | The Transfiguration | Matthew 17, Mark 9, Luke 9:28 |
| 29 AD | Greatest and Least in the Kingdom | Matthew 18 |
| 29 AD | Jesus Sends out the Seventy-two | Luke 10 |
| 29 AD | Jesus Teaches at the Feast of Tabernacles | John 7 |
| 29 AD | The Woman Caught in Adultery | John 8 |
| 29 AD | Jesus Affirms He is the Son of God | John 9 |
| 29 AD | The Shepherd and His Flock | John 10 |
| 30 AD | Jesus Speaks More Parables | Luke 12 – 16 |
| 30 AD | Jesus Cleanses the Ten Lepers | Luke 17 |
| 30 AD | Jesus Raises Lazarus | John 11 |
| 30 AD | Final Journey to Jerusalem | Matthew 19, 20, Mark 10, Luke 18 |
| 30 AD | The Triumphal Entry | Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, John 12 |
| 30 AD | Closing Ministry in Jerusalem | Matthew 22 – 25, Mark 12, 13, Luke 20, 21 |
| 30 AD | Thursday Before Passover | Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, John 13 |
| 30 AD | Jesus Comforts His Disciples | John 14 |
| 30 AD | Jesus the True Vine | John 15 |
| 30 AD | Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit | John 16 |
| 30 AD | Jesus’ Intercessory prayers | John 17 |
| 30 AD | Jesus’ Betrayal, Trial, Crucifixion | Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, John 18, 19 |
| 30 AD | Jesus’ Resurrection | Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20, 21 |
| 30 AD | The Ascension | Acts 1 |
| 30 AD | Matthias Chosen by Lot | Acts 1:12 |
| 30 AD | The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost | Acts 2 |
| 30 AD | Peter Heals and Preaches | Acts 3 |
| 30 AD | Peter and John Arrested and Released; | Acts 4 |
| 30 AD | Believers Share All | Acts 4:32 |
| 30 AD | Deaths of Ananias and Sapphira | Acts 5 |
| 30 AD | Apostles Preach and Heal | Acts 5:11 |
| 31 AD | Stephen’s Speech, Stoning and Death | Acts 6, 7 |
| 31 AD | Saul Persecutes the Church | Acts 8 |
| 31 AD | Philip in Samaria | Acts 8:3 |
| 31 AD | Simon the Sorcerer | Acts 8:9 |
| 31 AD | Philip and the Ethiopian | Acts 8:26 |
| 34 AD | Saul’s Conversion | Acts 9 |
| 37 AD | Peter Preaches to the Gentiles | Acts 10, 11 |
| 42 AD | Barnabas Sent to Antioch | Acts 11:22 |
| 42 AD | Peter Led from Prison by the Angel | Acts 12 |
| 44 AD | Herod Agrippa Dies | Acts 12:20 |
| 45 AD | James Writes his Letter | James 1 – 5 |
| 48 AD | Paul’s First Missionary Journey | Acts 13 |
| 48 AD | Paul preaches in Pisidian Antioch | Acts 13:14 |
| 48 AD | Paul and Barnabas in Iconium | Acts 14 |
| 48 AD | Paul and Barnabas in Lystra and Derbe | Acts 14:8 |
| 48 AD | Paul and Barnabas Return to Syrian Antioch | Acts 14:21 |
| 48 AD | Return to Syrian Antioch | Acts 14:24 |
| 48 AD | The Council at Jerusalem | Acts 15 |
| 49 AD | Paul’s Second Missionary Journey | Acts 15:36 |
| 49 AD | Paul in Philippi | Acts 16 |
| 49 AD | Paul in Thessalonica, Berea, Athens | Acts 17 |
| 51 AD | Paul in Corinth | Acts 18 |
| 51 AD | Paul Writes to the Thessalonians | 1 Thess. 1 – 5 |
| 52 AD | Paul Writes again to the Thessalonians | 2 Thess. 1 – 3 |
| 54 AD | Paul in Ephesus | Acts 19 |
| 54 AD | Paul Writes to the Corinthians | 1 Corinthians 1 – 16 |
| 54 AD | Paul Writes to the Galatians | Galatians 1 – 6 |
| 57 AD | Paul in Macedonia and Greece | Acts 20 |
| 57 AD | Paul Writes to the Romans | Romans 1 – 16 |
| 57 AD | Paul Writes again to the Corinthians | 2 Corinthians 1 – 13 |
| 59 AD | Paul Returns to Jerusalem | Acts 21 – 23 |
| 60 AD | Paul imprisoned in Caesarea | Acts 24 |
| 62 AD | Paul Before Festus | Acts 25 |
| 62 AD | Paul Before Agrippa | Acts 26 |
| 62 AD | Paul Sails for Rome | Acts 27 |
| 62 AD | The Shipwreck | Acts 27:13 |
| 62 AD | Paul Ashore at Malta | Acts 28 |
| 62 AD | Paul Preaches at Rome | Acts 28:11 |
| 62 AD | Paul Writes to the Ephesians | Ephesians 1 – 6 |
| 62 AD | Paul Writes to the Philippians | Philippians 1 – 4 |
| 62 AD | Paul Writes to the Colossians | Colossians 1 – 4 |
| 62 AD | Paul Writes to Philemon | Philemon 1 |
| 63 AD | Paul Writes to Timothy | 1 Timothy 1 – 6 |
| 64 AD | Peter Writes his First Letter | 1 Peter 1 – 5 |
| 66 AD | Paul Writes to Titus | Titus 1 – 3 |
| 67 AD | Paul Writes Again to Timothy | 2 Timothy 1 – 4 |
| 67 AD | Peter Writes his Second Letter | 2 Peter 1 – 3 |
| 68 AD | Letter to the Hebrews | Hebrews 1 – 13 |
| 68 AD | Jude Writes his Letter | Jude 1 |
| 90 AD | John Writes his First Letter | 1 John 1 – 5 |
| 92 AD | John Writes his Second Letter | 2 John 1 |
| 94 AD | John Writes his Third Letter | 3 John 1 |
| 95 AD | John’s Revelation on Patmos | Revelation 1 – 22 |
In 1 Corinthians 14:5, Paul speaks of tongues and wishes that all would speak it but would rather we prophesy because it is a greater gift than tongues. He was teaching this 24 year after the day of Pentecost.
In Acts 19:1-6 They were filled so full of the Holy Spirit they spoke in tongues. This took place 24 years after the day of Pentecost.
The Holy Spirit hasn’t change who He is, or the way He does things. If we start to change what the gifts are so it fits “our” doctrine, then what is stopping us from changing any of the other principles that are in the Word. It is also documented in the old testament the Holy Spirit was active and God giving His gift to the those who believed and obeyed the Lord.
Numbers 11:25 Then the Lord came down in the cloud and spoke with him, and he took some of the power of the Spirit that was on him and put it on the seventy elders. When the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied—but did not do so again. And; Isaiah 28:11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ…
Scripture references:
- Isaiah 28:11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.
- Ephesians 5:18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit.
- Jude 1:20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.
- Galatians 3:27 For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
- John 7:39 But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
- Acts 4:31 And when they had prayed, the place where they had gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness.
- Acts 10:44-46 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening to the message. All the circumcised believers who came with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they were hearing them speaking with tongues and exalting God. Then Peter answered.
- John 20:22 And when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit”.
- Mark 16:17 “These signs will accompany those who have believed: in My name they will cast out demons, they will speak with new tongues;
- Acts 11:15-16 “And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them just as He did upon us at the beginning. “And I remembered the word of the Lord, how He used to say, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’
- 1 Corinthians 12:10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.
- 1 Corinthians 14:1-2, 1 Earnestly pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy. 2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men, but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries in the Spirit…
I know, that’s a lot of scripture but these aren’t all of them so obviously, relevance is not the issue nor is it the lack of need. The Holy Spirit is still very relevant and needed and is certainly validated by Scripture. Perhaps, the extension of one’s faith and the ability to believe in the supernatural even though our faith is based on these principle of belief, may be the real issue. The Holy Spirit energizes the tongue to edify believers through language and music. Diverse tongues are the most misunderstood and dynamic gift. It is not your prayer language, but it can surface through intercession, conference, or through the individual.
Romans 8:26 In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groaning’s too deep for words.
Supernatural utterance in languages not known to the speaker may be existent in the world, revived from some past culture, or “unknown” in the sense that they are a means of communication inspired by the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 28:11; Mark 16:17; Acts 2:4, 10:44-48, 19:1-7; I Corinthians 12:10, 13:1-3, 14:2, 4-22, 26-32). The spiritual gift involving ability to speak in tongues is to respond to the experience of the Holy Spirit by uttering sounds which those without the gift of interpretation could not understand. At Pentecost the church received the gift to communicate the gospel in foreign languages (Acts 2). God gave His Spirit to all His people to empower them to witness and prophesy. In Corinth some members of the church uttered sounds the rest of the congregation did not understand (1 Corinthians 12-14). This led to controversy and division because they were not aware of the principles God put in place for these gifts. Paul worked with the people, assuring the church that there are different gifts but only one Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). He did not tell them the gifts of tongues were for the day of Pentecost only and are no longer necessary, on the contrary, he assured the church that the gifts are of one Spirit and that we should desire spiritual gift. He taught of the different gifts and how to abide by their purpose, 1 Corinthians 14:1, 26-33. There are many churches today that have split for lessor reasons and the common thread is usually congregates that have either a personal agenda or are not willing to follow the direction of the full doctrine of our Lord Jesus Christ. Splits come from discerning Christians filled with the Holy Spirit. If it is not 100% Bible believing, meaning all scriptures and all commandments with all the principles then a division of the church will be the least of that church’s problems. We are, as teachers of Christ, held to a higher accountability than layman. We are instructing the principles of the Most High and I certainly cannot take it lightly.
Let me break it down even further. There are three types of tongues in the Bible:
- An unknown tongue unto God (I Corinthians 14:2). This type of tongue edifies you (I Corinthians 14:4; Jude 20), assists you in prayer (Romans 8:26 27), stirs up the prophetic ministry (I Corinthians 14:5), refreshes your soul (Isaiah 28:11-12), gives victory over the devil (Ephesians 6:18), and helps you worship in the Spirit (I Corinthians 14:14-15; Hebrews 2:12). When you sing in the Spirit, God joins in with you and confuses and defeats the enemy (Isaiah 30:29-31); it breaks the yoke of bondage (Acts 16:25); it brings you into the presence of God (Psalm 22:3); and it aids you in intercession (Romans 8:26).
- A known tongue that is a sign to unbelievers. (Speaking in an unlearned actual foreign language), (I Corinthians 14:2; Acts 2:6).
- A tongue that is understood through interpretation and edifies the church (1 Corinthians 14:15).
Please note that the gift of tongues is a product of both God and man. Every believer has a part to play in speaking with tongues for the Spirit gives you utterance, and you do the talking. The Holy Spirit does not talk with tongues. In fact, nowhere in the Bible does it mention that the Holy Spirit ever talked with tongues. Instead, you will be doing the talking in the flesh; after all, God said He would pour out His Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who has ever spoken in tongues was in the flesh; however, he or she was inspired by the Spirit when they spoke. The Word of God says that if you pray in tongues, you should pray that you will also interpret – not only for the benefit of others – but for your own benefit as well. If someone speaks in tongues, you can ask God to move through you to give the interpretation so others will understand, but you can also do this in your private prayers for your own personal benefit. You can pray, “Father, help me understand what I’ve just said to you in the Spirit,” and the Lord will give you the interpretation.
The gift of interpretation of tongues is the second of three inspirational or vocal gifts of the Holy Spirit. When combined with the inspirational gift of diverse tongues, the miraculous and supernatural phenomenon known as prophecy results. (Agape)
Our God is a supreme being that does not change to simplify our faith. He will not falter or waiver from His Word. God has not unintentionally done anything. He has purpose and meaning for all that He does, this includes all the gifts of His Spirit. I challenge all those who have not received the baptism in the Holy Ghost to ask and believe as you did when you asked Jesus for forgiveness. Receiving the Holy Ghost is a blessing from God, why wouldn’t you want it? For a long time, I doubted the power of the Spirit and even the gift of tongues until I yielded to Him and allowed Him to work within me. Receiving Jesus as my Savior and having the baptism of the Holy Spirit has been the best decision I’ve ever made. I have the power to witness to the lost and to the fallen, received knowledge and the gift to discern and teach the Word of God, speak in a language that has edified me, the church and my Savior. I’ve prophesied, laid hands on the sick and watched miracles happen right before my very eyes; had visions and dreams with interpretations. My Father has used me as much as I yield to Him and has blessed me beyond my understanding. Why would you not accept the Spirit of the One that is all powerful and all-knowing and all loving? If you want to receive the Holy Spirit today, I would love to lead you in a prayer for the filling of the Holy Spirit. If so, here is how to prepare for this gift. First, confess any sins you can think of and prepare your heart to receive the infilling. We must have our hearts and minds willing and submissive to Him. Second, you don’t have to do anything weird, Jesus is the one who will fill you with the Spirit and is ready when you are. All you have to do is ask for it. Thirdly, after your prayer, thank Him for the gift of His Spirit and be prepared to have a new boldness. The Holy Spirit doesn’t like to hide; He will make Himself known. God won’t force Himself on you but He will not stop your blessing either. Last but most importantly, start praising Him out loud believing with all your heart, truly believing you have received the filling of the Holy Ghost based on His word. If your praises come out of your mouth funny, just go with it, don’t be afraid and don’t worry who’s looking, it’s just you and the Father rejoicing.
Are you ready…? Please hold your hands out with palms up (signifies you receiving a gift), and pray with me out loud;
Heavenly Father, forgive me Lord of my transgressions. I cannot walk in purity without the power of Your Holy Spirit. Lord, I stand on Your Word; Jesus, You said that You would send the Promise of Your Father and You would baptize me with the Holy Spirit. Lord Jesus, I ask in Your name to send me the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Lord, immerse me with the Power and the might of Your Holy Spirit. Lord Jesus, fill me with Your Holy Spirit till He overflows within my heart and mind; Lord, I yield to Your Spirit and I accept this precious gift, in Jesus Holy name. Thank you Lord for baptizing me with Your Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, rise up within me as I praise my God. Praise Him, praise His Holy Name, He is worthy!!! Hallelujah to the Lamb of God! Thank you Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me and giving me this beautiful and powerful gift, in Jesus’ mighty name, Amen and Amen.
