The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in your life as a Christian. While you may have heard about being "baptized in the Holy Spirit," the Bible also commands you to be continually filled with the Spirit. What does that mean, and why does it matter so much? Let’s break it down.

Understanding the Difference: Spirit Baptism vs. Filling

The baptism of the Holy Spirit happens once, at the moment of salvation. Ephesians 1:13-14 describes it as a seal and a guarantee of your inheritance in Christ. It’s God’s way of marking you as His own. This baptism is permanent and unchanging.

However, being filled with the Spirit is different. Unlike baptism, it’s not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Ephesians 5:18 commands, “Do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit.” The Greek verb here implies continuous action—being filled repeatedly. Why? Because as humans, we "leak." Life’s challenges, distractions, and sin can deplete our spiritual vitality.

What It Means to Be Spirit-Filled

Being filled with the Holy Spirit means allowing Him to take control of your thoughts, actions, and decisions. Think of it like raising the sails on a ship, letting the wind of the Spirit guide and propel you forward. It’s a life of surrender, where you align your heart with God’s will and invite His empowering presence into every area.

The Spirit’s filling isn’t just an internal experience. It manifests in tangible ways, the most evident being the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These are the markers of a Spirit-filled life.

Why the Spirit’s Filling Is Essential

Many Christians struggle not with receiving the Holy Spirit but with living under His influence. Being filled with the Spirit brings:

1. Transformation of Relationships
: Ephesians 5 and Colossians 3 both show how Spirit-filled living transforms your relationships. Husbands and wives love selflessly, parents nurture patiently, and coworkers serve humbly. A Spirit-filled believer reflects Christ in every relationship.
2. Empowerment for Ministry: 
The early Church was marked by Spirit-filled believers who boldly proclaimed the Gospel, performed miracles, and endured persecution. This same power is available to you, equipping you to fulfill God’s purpose for your life.
3. Victory Over Sin
: The Spirit empowers you to overcome the sin that so easily entangles. Through His strength, you can live in obedience and reflect God’s holiness.

How to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit

Here’s the good news: being filled with the Spirit isn’t about striving but surrendering. It’s a daily choice to submit to God’s will. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Confess and Repent of Sin: 
Sin blocks the Spirit’s work in your life. Confess and turn away from anything that hinders your relationship with God.
2. Spend Time in God’s Word
: Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” The more you saturate yourself with Scripture, the more the Spirit can guide and transform you.
3. Pray Continuously: 
Ask God to fill you with His Spirit. This isn’t a one-time prayer but a continual posture of dependence.
4. Worship and Gratitude: 
Spirit-filled living overflows into worship and thanksgiving, as seen in Ephesians 5:19-20. A heart of gratitude invites the Spirit’s presence.
5. Cultivate Humility and Surrender: 
Pride and self-reliance resist the Spirit’s work. Choose humility, acknowledging your need for His guidance and power.

The Evidence of a Spirit-Filled Life

How can you know if you’re filled with the Spirit? While some traditions emphasize miraculous signs, the clearest evidence is spiritual fruit. Are you growing in love, patience, and self-control? Is your life marked by joy and peace, even in trials? These are unmistakable signs of the Spirit’s filling.

Living as a Spirit-Filled Church

The early Church was both Spirit-baptized and Spirit-filled, and that’s God’s design for us today. Imagine the impact if every believer continuously walked in the Spirit’s power! It starts with you. Will you raise your sails and invite the Holy Spirit to lead?

Conclusion: Your Call to Action

You’ve been baptized in the Holy Spirit if you’re a believer. Now, God invites you to live in His fullness. Start today by surrendering, praying, and seeking His presence daily. As you do, you’ll experience the transformative power of being Spirit-filled, impacting not just your life but everyone around you.

For the Good of The City,

Derek Dunn

This post is based on a portion of a recent sermon. To listen to the full sermon, click the button below.