"Why Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?
Let me quote for you one of the insightful, dynamic prayers of decades ago: 'God, rule us so by Thy Word and Spirit that we may submit ourselves more and more to Thee; preserve and increase Thy church, destroy the works of the devil, and all violence which would exalt itself against Thee; and also wicked counsels devised against Thy holy Word until the full perfection of Thy kingdom takes place, wherein Thou shalt be all in all' (Heidelberg Catechism).
The scriptures teach that a supernatural enduement of God's Spirit is essential for all (Acts 1:8). The early church recognized the absolute right of God to rule in their lives. They were a mere collection of natural and ordinary men and women until after they were endued with power from on high. As a result of the Holy Spirit's outpouring, they went forth with supernatural annointing, preaching the Word with signs following. It's one thing to be filled; it's quite another to be full. Fullness is not a one-time experience, 'I was filled,' but a continual, 'Be ye being filled,' (Ephesians 5:18). Agree with me that the gifts are not the issue, and that our need is to be supernaturally endued with power from on high, with whatever works accompany it.
1. Why should I be filled?
The most prominent reason in the Scriptures is that Jesus invites you (Acts 1:4; Luke 24:49; John 7: 37-39). Secondly, ministry requires annointing (Numbers 11:29; Joel 2:28-31, being lived out in Acts). The word 'promise' in Acts 2:33,38 is sounding the message that God will have an annointed, priestly people equipped to minister to this world (Exodus 19:6; Revelation 1:5,6).
2. How should I be filled?
There is only one way, and that is to be filled by Jesus, as those in the Word. In Acts 2:1, they were obedient and a people of simple trust. They were also willing to let the Lord do an unusual thing (Acts 2:2,3). Finally, they were open to fresh dimensions of praise (Acts 2:4,11), prophecy (2:17,18), and prayer (I Corinthians 14:14,15,18; Jude 20; Ephesians 6:18).
3. When should I be filled?
First let me say no time is better than the present. It is for all who have received Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord: (1) Saul - Acts 9:17; (2) The Ephesians - Acts 19:1-6; (3) Cornelius' household - Acts 10:44-48; (4) The Samaritans - Acts 8:5-17. It comes by faith alone. You don't receive because you are more worthy or spiritual than others. You only need to meet the requirements of our Lord. 'Blessed are they who hunger and thirst after righteouness (God's supernatural workings), for they shall be filled' (Matthew 5:6).
Understanding the Holy Spirit's purpose and plan is both critical to our lives and necessary for growth. If my focus is unbiblical, then it will produce unbiblical results.
Feeling full,
Ron Mehl"