The believer is indwelt by the Holy Spirit at conversion. This indwelling is associated with the work of redemption, with being bought with a price, 1 Cor 6:19,20. Being bought with a great price and our bodies being the temple of the Holy Ghost are inseparably connected.
The infilling of the Holy Spirit however is something entirely different. This indwelling of the Holy Spirit is never to be equated with the infilling of the Holy Spirit. They are two entirely separate things.
Sadly in some circles the infilling of the Holy Ghost is not given the place that it ought to have. Maybe this lack of emphasis is a reaction to the Charismatic movement and the mistaken teaching and practices which surround their understanding of this topic. It might be deemed too charismatic!
However, as we have noticed the Holy Spirit has a distinct work which He performs as a part of the Trinity in the lives of believers. It is very important to give the Holy Ghost His rightful place.
We are commanded to seek in the infilling of the Spirit upon being converted. It is something that a Christian needs to seek and experience continually throughout their lives.
This is no, one off, second blessing type of an experience. It is a vital matter that every Christian needs to give continual attention to. |
