Here, we read why the Holy Spirit baptism is not just important for some believers, but for all believers.
1. Paul sees that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is for every generation (vs 6). Twelve disciples in Ephesus are filled with the Holy Spirit for the first time, several years after Pentecost. These disciples had only heard of John’s baptism.
2. Paul correctly discerns the leading of the Holy Spirit (vs 8-9). When Paul sees that the Jews are resisting him in the synagogue after 3 months, he goes to preach and teach Jews and Greeks at the lecture hall for 2 years.
3. Paul is given supernatural strength in the Holy Spirit to witness for the kingdom of God. Some ancient records indicate that Paul would preach for 5 hours a day between 11am-4pm, five days a week!
4. The power of the Holy Spirit protects Paul from the attacks of the enemy. Ephesus was a mega-center for practice in witchcraft and sorcery. When those who did not know the Lord tried to cast out demons in Jesus came, they were overcome by evil.
Eagerly seek the filling of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). Be honest with God about your struggles (Phil 4:6), and invite the Holy Spirit to lead your steps. The Holy Spirit brings strength to the weary (Is 40:29). Don’t just resist the enemy, draw near to the Holy Spirit (James 4:7-8).