InstaStudy

William E. Bostic and the Apostolic Pattern of Receiving the Holy Ghost

A Bible study exploring the biblical pattern of receiving the Holy Ghost as recorded in the Book of Acts (KJV), illustrated through the historical experience of early pioneer William E. Bostic.

1. The Promise of the Holy Ghost in Scripture

1.1 The Prophetic Promise

Verses: Joel 2:28; Luke 24:49
  • The outpouring of the Spirit was prophesied as a universal gift for all believers.
  • Jesus instructed His disciples to tarry until they were endued with power from on high.

1.2 The Outpouring at Pentecost

Verses: Acts 2:1-4; Acts 2:39
  • The Holy Ghost was first given on the Day of Pentecost with physical and spiritual evidence.
  • The promise is explicitly extended to all future generations who answer the call of God.

2. The Initial Evidence of Speaking in Tongues

2.1 The Consistent Pattern in Acts

Verses: Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • Believers in Caesarea and Ephesus spoke with tongues immediately upon receiving the Holy Ghost.
  • Speaking in tongues served as the undeniable sign to observers that the Spirit had been received.

2.2 William E. Bostic's Historical Witness

Verses: Acts 2:4; Mark 16:17
  • William E. Bostic's reception of the Holy Ghost mirrored the biblical pattern of speaking in other tongues.
  • His experience testified to the modern revival of apostolic power and the restoration of the early church pattern.

3. The Apostolic Plan of Salvation

3.1 Repentance and Faith

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 13:3
  • A sincere turning away from sin is the essential first step in responding to the gospel.
  • Repentance prepares the believer's heart to receive the indwelling of the Holy Ghost.

3.2 Water Baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ

Verses: Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5
  • Apostolic baptism in the Book of Acts was consistently administered in the name of the Lord Jesus.
  • This baptism represents the washing away of sins and identification with Christ's death and resurrection.

3.3 Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost

Verses: Acts 2:38; Romans 8:9
  • The gift of the Holy Ghost is a distinct and necessary experience for spiritual regeneration.
  • Possessing the Spirit of Christ is essential for belonging to Him and walking in newness of life.