WEEK 27: Following Jesus

 Salvation, water baptism, and the baptism in the Holy Spirit are steps in a journey of faith that deepen one’s relationship with God. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is emphasized in scripture as a vital, empowering experience—it was modeled by Jesus, prophesied by the prophets, promised to believers, commanded by Christ, and ultimately realized in the early church. This experience, which is both experiential and follows salvation, is something God intends for believers to seek repeatedly. By following the example set in scripture—first embracing salvation, then engaging in water baptism, and continually seeking the Holy Spirit—believers can experience God’s empowering presence and be reminded of His constant support. God desires this repeated encounter, inviting us to ask Him to fill us over and over so that we can be strengthened to follow Jesus faithfully.