The Holy Spirit (Part 7)

I want to answer some questions concerning the baptism of the Holy Spirit.  The two principle questions I want to deal with are: 1) Has the baptism in the Holy Spirit been done away with? 2) Is there any purpose for this gift in the church today?  I will answer these questions based on what the Word of God teaches and not what man believes.

1.  Has Tongues Been Done Away With?

Those who teach that tongues are no longer relevant in the church today, often use 1 Corinthians 13:8 as their primary scripture to validate their point.  This scripture reads in part "...But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled;..."  Upon close examination of this passage, it also says that "...where there is knowledge, it will pass away." If one is going to use this scripture to fortify their argument that "tongues have ceased" then they will also have to acknowledge that "knowledge has passed away" and we know this isn't the case. This passage is referring to the perfect age when none of these will be necessary.

2.  Why Some Believe It Is Not Necessary To Speak In Tongues.

For those who teach that it isn't necessary to speak in tongues, they use 1 Corinthians 12:27-30 as their primary scripture, especially verse 30 "...do all speak in tongues?..."  To which the inferred answer is "no."  What they fail to see and understand is that Paul is addressing "ministry gifts" and not the baptism of the Holy Spirit.  He is talking about the ministry of tongues and interpretation. If one tries to use these verses as argument for "tongues not being necessary" then they are stretching the intent of Paul's words and taking them out of context.

3.  The Purpose of Speaking In Tongues.

There are five reasons why Paul encouraged the Corinthian church to speak in tongues:

• It is the initial evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4; 10:44-46; 19:1-6)
• It is a way to speak directly to God (1 Corinthians 14:2)
• For self-edification (1 Corinthians 14:3; Jude 20)
• It helps the believer pray for the unknown (Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 14:2)
• It brings the tongue under subjection (James 3:8; 1 Corinthians 14:2, 5)

Allow God to speak to you and show you the truth of His Word.  It is exciting to see what God will do when we yield ourselves completely to Him.

-- Pastor Temple

How To Honor Your Mother

Yesterday was "Mother's Day."  I know many mom's had a great day as their children pampered them, feed them, and perhaps gave them cards and presents.  I think it is great that we set aside a day to recognize the hard work and challenges of motherhood.  But I believe it's important for us to honor our mothers everyday.  I want to share with you eight ways you can honor your mom.

1. Verbally.  Whenever possible make sure you tell your mom how much you love her!  As often as possible, express your admiration for all the wonderful qualities she has.  And if there are any issues you need to talk to her about, do it with love and respect.
2. Affectionately.  Remember, your mother was the first one to hold and cradle you.  She was the one who affectionately cared for all your needs.  As you get older be sure to reciprocate that affection by hugging and embracing her often.
3. Patiently.  No one is perfect.  But if there is one person who merits our understanding and patience, it's our mothers.  Remember, she labors under a huge responsibility.  Instead of complaining, we should pray for her often.
4. Gratefully.  In general, moms give an incredible amount, and all they usually want in return
   
   is to be appreciated and heard.  Be grateful while you have your mother with you.  Don't wait until it is too late.  Look for special ways to show your gratitude for all she has done.
5. Generously.  If you have the means, consider what you can do to make your mom's life a little easier.  Give her what she needs, lovingly and sacrificially.  It displeases the Lord when children concentrate on building wealth but leave their parents in poverty.
6. Forgivingly.  There is never a legitimate reason to hold a grudge against your mom. If you ever begin to feel angry over some past hurt, remember how many times she forgave you. Think about all the sacrifices she has made for you and show her forgiveness and compassion.
7. Cheerfully.  Many times we take our troubles to our mothers but forget to bring our joys and successes to them as well.  Our moms need encouragement.  We should try to stay positive, make them laugh and remember all the good times we've had together.
8. Honorably.  Do you live in such a way that your mom is proud of you? Nothing honors your mother so much as seeing you and your children as godly believers, fully devoted to Jesus Christ.  Live an honorable life to show respect for what your mother has poured into you.

Mothers are a precious gift to their families and the value of a godly mother is beyond measure.  So love your mom.  Whether she lives close to you or has gone on to be with the Lord, celebrate her life by how you live.

-- Pastor Temple

The Greatest Satisfaction In Life (Guest Post)

This week's post is from Keith Fife.  It covers the importance of preferring others over yourself and how that will bring you the greatest satisfaction in life.  You can read it here.