InstaStudy

Praying Persistently for the Gift of the Holy Ghost, Because Persistent Prayer is the Key to Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

This study explores the profound importance of persistent prayer in seeking and receiving the promised gift of the Holy Ghost. We will examine scriptural foundations for this divine experience, understand its nature as the Spirit of the living God dwelling within believers, and discover how unwavering supplication opens the door to this transformative power, enabling a deeper walk with the Lord and empowering us for His service.

1. The Divine Promise of the Holy Ghost

1.1 The Prophetic Foretelling

Verses: Joel 2:28-29; Isaiah 28:11-12
  • God's ancient promise to pour out His Spirit on all flesh.
  • The new covenant includes this spiritual outpouring, bringing a new dimension of spiritual experience.

1.2 Jesus' Promise to His Disciples

Verses: John 14:16-17; John 16:7; Acts 1:4-5; Acts 1:8
  • Jesus promised a Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, who would abide with them forever.
  • He instructed them to wait for the power from on high, which would enable them to be His witnesses.

1.3 The Fulfillment on the Day of Pentecost

Verses: Acts 2:1-4; Acts 2:38-39
  • The initial outpouring of the Spirit was accompanied by the evidence of speaking in other tongues.
  • Peter's sermon connected this experience to the promise for all who believe and obey.

2. Understanding the Nature of the Holy Ghost

2.1 The Spirit of God and Christ

Verses: Romans 8:9-11; 2 Corinthians 3:17; Philippians 1:19
  • The Holy Ghost is identified as the Spirit of God and the Spirit of Christ.
  • It is the indwelling presence of the Lord Himself, making Him real and active in our lives.

2.2 Not a Separate Entity, but God's Indwelling Presence

Verses: John 4:24; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Ephesians 4:4-6
  • God is Spirit, and the Holy Ghost is God dwelling within us, making our bodies His temple.
  • There is one Spirit, one Lord, and one God and Father of all, emphasizing the singular nature of God's presence.

2.3 The Power for Transformation and Service

Verses: Acts 1:8; Romans 15:13; Galatians 5:22-23
  • The Holy Ghost empowers believers for witness and service, giving them divine ability.
  • It brings joy, peace, and righteousness, and produces the fruit of the Spirit in a believer's life.

3. The Imperative of Persistent Prayer

3.1 Jesus' Teaching on Persistent Prayer

Verses: Luke 11:5-10; Luke 18:1-8
  • The parable of the friend at midnight teaches the importance of importunity and not giving up.
  • The parable of the persistent widow emphasizes that God rewards those who diligently seek Him and do not faint.

3.2 The Disciples' Example of Waiting and Praying

Verses: Acts 1:12-14; Acts 2:1-4
  • The disciples gathered in one accord, continually in prayer, demonstrating their earnest expectation.
  • Their persistent waiting and supplication preceded the powerful outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost.

3.3 Seeking with All Your Heart

Verses: Jeremiah 29:13; Matthew 7:7-8
  • God promises to be found when sought with the whole heart, indicating a deep and sincere desire.
  • Asking, seeking, and knocking are active, persistent actions that lead to receiving, finding, and opening.

4. The Evidence and Benefits of Receiving the Holy Ghost

4.1 Initial Evidence of Speaking in Other Tongues

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • Speaking in tongues is the consistent initial sign of receiving the Holy Ghost, as recorded in Scripture.
  • It is a supernatural utterance given by the Spirit, enabling believers to speak divine mysteries.

4.2 Empowerment for Witnessing and Ministry

Verses: Acts 1:8; Acts 4:31; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11
  • The Holy Ghost provides boldness and power to share the gospel effectively.
  • It bestows spiritual gifts for the edification of the body of Christ and for effective ministry.

4.3 Deeper Relationship and Spiritual Understanding

Verses: Romans 8:14-16; 1 Corinthians 2:10-14
  • The Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, fostering a deeper relationship.
  • It reveals the deep things of God and grants spiritual discernment, enabling us to understand divine truths.

5. Cultivating a Heart Ready to Receive

5.1 Repentance and Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:14-17; Acts 19:1-6
  • Repentance and water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ are foundational steps for receiving the promise.
  • The Holy Ghost is given to those who obey God and follow His prescribed plan for salvation.

5.2 Faith and Expectation

Verses: Galatians 3:14; Luke 11:13
  • The promise of the Spirit is received through faith, believing that God will fulfill His word.
  • God is eager to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him with sincere faith and expectation.

5.3 Removing Hindrances and Yielding to God

Verses: James 4:8; Ephesians 4:30
  • Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you; a clean heart and pure hands are essential.
  • Grieve not the Holy Spirit by unconfessed sin, resistance, or a lack of yielding to His will.