Monday, May 02, 2005
Controversial Concepts
In modern times, I cannot think of a more controversial Christian discussion than that of "The Baptism of the Holy Spirit." I believe in such a thing, but fear it. I have prayed ardently for it, but have experienced it only in small and quiet ways. I have seen it bring great blessing and I have seen it cause the ultimate harm.
Therefore, I read this post from Adrian Warnock with anticipation and trepidation. Adrian quotes Charles Finney's testimony, which is amazingly absent a manifestation of tongues, which is generally associated with the experience.
Therefore, I read this post from Adrian Warnock with anticipation and trepidation. Adrian quotes Charles Finney's testimony, which is amazingly absent a manifestation of tongues, which is generally associated with the experience.
Because of some experiences in my youth with this phenomena, ones that hurt many, many people about whom I still care greatly, I have studied this area with some urgency. But rather than pontificate I would like to hear some discussion on the matter. Here are some important questions.
- Absent miraculous signs, how can Finney's or anyone else's experience be established as a genuine encounter with the Holy Spirit?
- Is such an experience necessary for sanctification?
- Will this experience always be spectacular, even if not miraculous?
- Where does the spiritual end and the emotional begin? How do we discern that point?
- Is the experience accessible to all? How? If not, why not?
- Are those who have had such an experience better or more connected to God than those that have not?
- Can the evil one create similar experiences? How do you tell between ones originated in the Spirit and in the evil one?
- If "faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things unseen" and grace comes through faith why does God provide such experiences?
In all my studies I have answers for these, but am not fully satisfied with them. I am interested in the thoughts of others. This much I know. The experience is utterly ecstatic, but if not grounded in deep thought and understanding, it can be highly misleading and dangerous.
