Acts 2:3
They saw what seemed to be individual flames of fire alighting on each one of them.
This description of the manner in which the Holy Spirit descends upon the first disciples is highly significant. Let us consider two critical aspects of this historic occasion.
Firstly, the distribution of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost is of critical significance. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit was not en masse as such, but it singled out every person present individually without exception. Now, that is precious beloved!
Among other things, it follows that although we all receive from the same Spirit, yet each one of us receives a unique anointing. Each of us is filled and empowered to the fullest extent of our capacity and assignment (see 1 Cor. 12:4). So the baptism in the Spirit is both uniform for all believers and unique for individual believers. It is both shared and special. How awesome!
The uniformity implies that God does not exclude anyone from the Father’s promise. We can all request and receive the Spirit’s baptism. Don’t let anyone suggest otherwise (see also Lu 11:13). The early church had a 100% success rate at a corporate level; why should we settle for less? On the other hand, the uniqueness implies that we must not try to copycat others. We must all personally receive our own tailor-made anointing. Have you? Will you?
Pastor Josh