Bible Studies/how do I know?

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Expert: - 8/10/2011


Question
Scott,
Hi, I am wondering whether the promise of the Father from the Lord Jesus to the disciples is the same gift that we have today as believers and, how do we know that we have the baptism of the Holy Spirit upon salvation?
Thanks.
Zhane
P.S. I have been taught for years that Baptism of the Holy Spirit is a secondary experience, after salvaation. So I guess I mean to ask "Is this true according to Scriptures?"

Answer
Hi Zhane,

It's nice to hear from you.

Jesus promised His disciples (and us) that, after He left them, He would send them His "alter ego"--the Holy Spirit. Because this was a new event, the Holy Spirit's initial "arrival" took place in stages. This was accompanied by miracles and special signs to verify that this was truly a God thing.

However, today, a believer receives the Holy Spirit immediately at the time of salvation.

Recently I discussed this topic at length with someone else who came to the site with a similar question. May I recommend that you read those discussions to see if they provide you with the answers you seek.

Go to http://en.allexperts.com/q/Bible-Studies-1654/indexExp_15405.htm. There you will find questions that I've recently answered. Click on the link for Dec 29, 2010, Dec 31, 2010, and Jan 1, 2011.

If you still have questions, feel free to write back and we can discuss further.

Scott

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Scott Talbot

Expertise

I have studied the Bible and Bible-related topics since the time I was very young. My education includes a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Bible, and a Master of Divinity degree. I enjoy delving into deep theological issues and always enjoy a healthy debate. But more importantly, I like working with people and helping them to find the answers that they are looking for. And I am convinced that these answers are available in the Bible.

Experience

By the grace and mercy of God, I have been saved, born again, adopted into the family of God. God has given me a love for the Bible, and for Bible-related subjects. In addition, He has blessed me with ongoing training in the Scriptures, from my youth on up. The more I learn about God through His Word, the more I want to share!

Organizations
Campus Crusade for Christ, Grace Church at Willow Valley

Education/Credentials
Pillsbury Baptist Bible College - B.S. Bible & Pastorology; Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary - M.Div.

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