INTERNATIONAL EDITION

Volume 36 / Number 1

ACTS

The Anointing
“‘Not by might nor by of the
Holy Spirit
power, but by My Spirit,’
says the Lord of hosts”
(Zech 4:6).
By Rev. Frank R. Parrish

We hope you enjoy this expanded issue of ACTS Magazine! Please see page 63
for instructions on how you can continue receiving ACTS in print – and even earlier by email.
 The Anointing of the
Holy Spirit
AUTHOR’S NOTE – IMPORTANT!
Dear Fellow Church Leader:
This issue of ACTS Magazine on “Anoint-
ing” is designed to be an in-depth, biblical
study on this subject. It will require of you
some serious thought, study and effort in
order to gain a better understanding of this
critical topic.
It may require some extensive time to get
through this study. You may study through
only two or three pages each day. But I strongly urge
you to apply yourself both in prayer and in diligent
study. If you do, your life and ministry will be
changed!
I was in ministry many years before I understood
God’s desire for His Spirit’s anointing in my life and
ministry. When I opened my heart and allowed God
to “open the eyes of my understanding”, I was
changed! My ministry was changed! The Holy
Spirit’s presence and power were far more active and
visible in and through my life and ministry.
Much more fruit became evident in my ministry.
I experienced the presence of God in a more pro-
found way than ever before. My life did not become
easier; but there was a greater ability to live as more
than a conqueror through Christ who loves me (see
Romans 8:37).
I strongly encourage you to apply yourself as a
diligent and steadfast workman in your study of this
material. Here are some practical suggestions that
will help you to do this:
First, I have given many Bible references
throughout this teaching. Please take the time to
look up each and every Scripture reference. This will
serve several very important purposes: 1) As a church
leader, you should never simply accept every teaching
you read or hear, no matter the source. Always search
the Scriptures for yourself (Acts 17:11); 2) As a
church leader, it is important for you to advance in
your knowledge, familiarity and understanding of the
Scriptures (2Tim 2:15-18). This will protect you and
those you lead from error, as well as cause you to be a
skilled workman with the Word of God; 3) Only the
Word of God is backed up by the power of God
2 • ACTS
by Rev. Frank R. Parrish
(2Tim 3:16,17; Heb 4:12,13; 2Pet 1:20,21).
It is only the combined action of the Holy
Spirit and the Word of God that can trans-
form the human heart.
Second, keep a notebook or paper handy
and write down notes, questions or scriptures
for further study. God will speak to you and
REV.
FRANK reveal truth to you as you study His Word.
PARRISH
Let this study be a journey of personal growth
for you, which will help you far beyond just receiving
good teaching material.
Finally, my dear fellow-worker, I would strongly
encourage you to accompany your study time with
much prayer and waiting upon the Lord. For it is the
Holy Spirit who reveals truth and the nature and
character of Christ (John 14:17,26). Do not let this
study involve only your mind, for you will then be
limited in what you can receive. Our minds are a gift
from God, but they are still limited (see 1 Corinthi-
ans Chapters 3 and 4). Open your heart, and allow
the Holy Spirit to teach you and to shape you. You
can lead others only where you, yourself, have
been. So pray, study and enjoy this teaching – and
may you grow in God’s anointing power even as you
read!
Also, please take note of the new feature we have
added to this issue of ACTS Magazine. Throughout
the teaching, there will be special notes from me to
you. They are designed for you as a church leader to
receive a more in-depth look at an important princi-
ple from the Bible regarding ministry or personal
growth. These special notes are identified as “Pastor
To Pastor” and are set in a gray background in order
that you might readily identify them.
Pastor, I love you in Christ and I believe in the
purposes of God for you. You are God’s chosen in-
strument, whom He desires to use for His Kingdom’s
sake and glory, and to bless His Church. I bless you
in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Now may God
bless you, strengthen you and enlarge you, as you
study and receive from His Word and His Spirit!
Your brother, Rev. Frank R. Parrish
Director, World MAP
 The Anointing
of the

Holy Spirit
“‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’
says the Lord of hosts” (Zech 4:6).
by Rev. Frank R. Parrish

INTRODUCTION TO THIS TEACHING

efore an effective, biblical study of “Anointing” established and lived out in your own life and ministry.

B can begin, we must establish some important foun-

dational principles. These principles will form a
biblical platform from which we can attain a proper view
of anointing.
The beginning sections of this article will address
those foundational principles. They may be new to you,
or they may already be familiar. However, since it is crit-
ical that we have a common foundation from which to
build this study, I would ask you to study the following
principles carefully. Allow time for the Holy Spirit to re-
veal, convict, test and affirm how well these principles are
Fellow leader, this is not a study of easy “shortcuts” to
maturity. Nor does it offer quick formulas or fancy tech-
niques that can be used to make you a “success”.
Rather, this is a biblical study of how we as church
leaders must grow and function within God’s Kingdom.
The pathway to maturity is a necessary process in order to
be truly fruitful, to have a lasting ministry that brings
much glory to God!
Therefore, let us apply ourselves with diligence as we
learn about this issue of anointing. God can bless only
what He has established as His way and will. Thus, it is es-

OUTLINE OF “THE ANOINTING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT”

INTRODUCTION 2. Anointing Not To Be Kept To Ourselves
3. Anointing Can Be Limited Or Stopped
I. HISTORICAL AND BIBLICAL 4. Anointing Can Be Abused Or Misused
BACKGROUND OF ANOINTING D. OLD TESTAMENT FORETYPES
A. Anointing In The Old Testament OF ANOINTING
1. Origin of the word “anoint” 1. Symbolic Foretypes
2. Origin of the word “messiah” 2. Lessons From The Anointing Oil
B. Anointing In The New Testament
1. Aleipho III. WALKING IN THE ANOINTING
2. Chrio A. PROTECTING THE ANOINTING
3. Chrisma 1. Rats In The Well
2. The Pathway To Purity
II. THE NATURE, PURPOSE AND 3. Seven Characteristics Of Genuine Anointing
FUNCTION OF ANOINTING B. GROWING IN THE ANOINTING
A. THE NATURE OF ANOINTING 1. Character And Anointing
1. What The Anointing Is Not 2. The Master’s Footsteps
2. Three Aspects of Sanctification a. Jesus Was Subject To Authority
3. The Pathway To Growth b. Jesus Grew Into Maturity
B. THE PURPOSE OF ANOINTING c. Jesus Walked In Humility
1. Anointing Defined d. Jesus Understood Testing
2. Power With A Purpose 3. Pursuit Of The Person Of God
a. Divine Enablement C. RECEIVING HIS ANOINTING
b. Who Can Have The Anointing 1. Be Filled!
C. THE FUNCTION OF ANOINTING 2. Seek God!
1. Anointing Related To Calling
ACTS • 3
 INTERNATIONAL EDITION
VOLUME 36 / NUMBER 1
PUBLISHED BY WORLD MAP
CHENNAI
ACTS
Contents
THE ANOINTING
OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
“‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’
says the Lord of hosts” (Zech 4:6).
By Rev. Frank R. Parrish
Author’s Note ..................................................................2
Introduction And Outline.................................................3
Part I:
Historical And Biblical Background Of Anointing .........9
Part II:
The Nature, Purpose And Function Of Anointing .........11
Part III:
Walking In The Anointing .............................................35
Editors . . . . . . . . . . . . .Frank & Wendy Parrish
International Editor . . . . . . . . . . .Gayla Dease
Managing Editor, India . . . . . . . .E. Velayutham
Copy Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Keith Balser
Illustrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dennis McLain
PUBLISHED AT WORLD MAP,
CHENNAI - 600 010, INDIA
POSTAGE PAID AT
CHENNAI - 600 010 INDIA
VISION AND MISSION OF WORLD MAP
To provide practical Bible teaching and ministry train-
ing free of charge to church leaders in developing na-
tions so that they will be equipped to fulfill the Great
Commission in their own nations and around the
world. Founded in 1961 by Ralph Mahoney, World
MAP continues today under the leadership of Frank
and Wendy Parrish.
ACTS (ISSN 0744-1789) is published semiannually at
World MAP ACTS INDIA, 67 Beracah Road, Kilpuak,
Chennaim 600010, T.N. INDIA. Head office and copy-
right: World MAP, 1419 N. San Fernando Blvd., Bur-
bank CA 91504 USA. Branches: P.O. Box 4142,
Manila, Philippines; Private Bag, White River 1240,
South Africa; P.O. Box 721, Arusha, Tanzania.
Visit our website at: www.world-map.com
See page 63 for renewal instructions.
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the
New King James Version.
Copyright © 1979, 1980, 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.
4 • ACTS
sential that we lay a proper foundation from His Word be-
fore we move on to the related issues of anointing
(Isa 28:10).
Unlimited Ministry
The subject of ANOINTING is of great importance to
any and every believer in Jesus Christ. However, under-
standing ANOINTING – what it is, how it functions, and
how we can walk and grow in it – is critical. This is es-
pecially true for those who are called to full-time ministry.
Unfortunately, ANOINTING is often poorly under-
stood or is a subject perhaps even avoided by some lead-
ers. Though it is something that God desires to give us,
many leaders do not know what it is or how to receive it.
Thus, they try to replace the anointing of the Holy Spirit
with other things.
Some leaders may become skilled in administration
or organization. Perhaps they pursue education, adding
degrees and titles before and after their names. They might
attend many conferences and be inspired by great
speakers. They might even develop their own speaking or
singing skills in order to lead or motivate people more
effectively.
These things mentioned above are not necessarily
wrong, and may or may not prove helpful in ministry.
BUT THEY ARE NOT THE ANOINTING! Nor can they
replace the genuine anointing of the Holy Spirit in the
minister’s life.
Education and administrative skills can be good and
helpful. However, they are limited in what they can help
the leader to accomplish. When we rely upon our
education, the best result we can hope for is the limit of
our education. When we rely upon our eloquent speaking
or other skills, we are limited to what those skills can
accomplish.
However, when we rely upon the Holy Spirit, we
are limited only by what the Holy Spirit can do!
Whatever we choose to rely upon, or place our trust
in, in order to accomplish the call to ministry – that is what
will set the limits of what we are able to do. How much
limitation do you want on your ministry?
With God, there are no limits! (See Luke 18:27.)
Therefore, if I put my trust and reliance upon God and His
power and ability, my only limitations in ministry are
God’s will and His desires for me (Phil 4:13).
It is God’s will for every born-again believer to show
the evidence of the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:16-26) in their
behavior and actions. The fruit of the Spirit is the charac-
ter of Christ. This same type of character is required es-
pecially of those who are called to lead others in the Body
of Christ. It is the leader’s role to model godly behavior
for those whom they lead (1Cor 11:1; Phil 3:17;
1Tim 4:12). There are no gifts, administrative skills or
preaching or teaching abilities that can replace having
Christ-like character and integrity.
It is also God’s will – especially for those called to
lead – that we have the supernatural power of the Holy
Spirit. Jesus told His disciples, “You did not choose Me,
but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and
bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain”
(John 15:16).
From this passage we see that it is the desire of Jesus
that the fruit of our lives remain. How can that happen?
When our ministry is filled with God’s anointing power –
the power of the Holy Spirit – His power through us en-
ables us to influence the lives of people in a way that is
fruitful and lasting.
It does not matter how talented or smart a leader is.
Without the enablement of the Holy Spirit, a leader can-
not fulfill God’s will in God’s way in ministry. Fortunately
for us, God knows what we need far better than we do.
And He has already provided for us His power and abil-
ity to help us fulfill His high call.
Form Without Power
Today, there are many churches and ministries where
God’s presence and the power of the Holy Spirit have been
limited. These ministries may have large crowds, sophis-
ticated facilities or exciting events. But if the genuine
presence and power of the Holy Spirit is not welcomed
and evident, these gatherings can be just empty, religious
ceremonies.
A large building or stadium can have huge crowds,
sophisticated facilities and exciting events for just a soc-
cer game. But these outward circumstances have little to
do with making disciples who follow diligently after Jesus
Christ!
In the history of the Church, there are many places in
our world where God did great and miraculous works
through yielded human vessels. Many of those churches,
and even vast geographic regions, were once known for
their dynamic Christian presence. Sadly, today they are
spiritually darkened. Where the Church once thrived and
had great influence, these places are now empty and with-
out the light of the Gospel.
Of the more well-known in New Testament history
are the churches of Asia Minor (now the nation of
Turkey). These churches can be read about in the Book of
Revelation. They are commonly known as the “Seven
Churches of Revelation”.
These churches were once heralded as mighty
fortresses of Christ’s redemptive work in the hearts of
men. Many miracles had taken place there (read the Book
of Acts). But today, tourists pay money to walk among the
ruins where great apostles once held forth the Word of
Life. These places are now lifeless and void of the power
of the Gospel.
What happened to these once-great churches and min-
istries? These empty ruins, now occupied only by birds of
the air, stand as a warning and a lesson to us all.
Here is what we can learn: Whenever church lead-
ers begin to rely upon their own abilities, or upon tradi-
tions, titles, church politics, or even upon education and
learning – instead of dependence upon the Holy Spirit
of God and the timeless truths of His Word – that is
when God’s life and power begin to depart from us as
leaders, and from the ministries or churches that God
has entrusted to us.
Holding
forth
the Word of Life.
What Is The Church?
The Holy Spirit inspired Paul to address the condition
of the church (see 1 Corinthians 3). The Corinthian church
was being rebuked for their carnal, immature and selfish
fighting with one another. They were dividing up into
groups for the purpose of trying to assert their supposed
superiority over one another (3:1-4). This was, and still is
today, nothing more than puffed-up pride – the sin of the
devil (1Tim 3:6). This prideful behavior and self-depen-
dent efforts of men still hinder fruitfulness in the Church
today.
Paul goes on to state clearly that God is the One who
causes the Church to truly grow. “So then neither he who
plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives
the increase” (1Cor 3:7).
There is only ONE FOUNDATION on which the
Church can be built: Jesus Christ who is the Chief Cor-
nerstone (1Cor 3:10,11; see also Ephesians 2:20-22). This
is our Cornerstone for the Church today, as much as it was
when the Church was born more than 2,000 years ago!
The Core Of The Church
There is something very unique about the use of a cor-
nerstone in the ancient world that will help us understand
better why Jesus is called the “chief cornerstone”
(Matt 21:42).
In the ancient Middle East, houses and buildings were
all built the same way. One stone was carefully positioned
first, that being the chief cornerstone. The rest of the build-
ing, including its size, layout and setting, was measured
and lined up with that one particular cornerstone.
This is the illustration used by the Holy Spirit through
Paul to show the preeminence of Christ in how the living
Church is to be built. It is of living stones, growing and
spiritually alive, all upon the Cornerstone of salvation
through Jesus Christ (1Pet 2:4-10). Nothing else will line
up properly without this Cornerstone at the very center of
the Church.
As church leaders, we are called to partner with Christ
in obedience to His purposes and plans to assist in
ACTS • 5

Discipling and building people.
building up the living Church of God. The New Testament
Church – Christ’s Church – is made up of people who
have come to the saving knowledge of faith in Jesus
Christ. The term “church” in the New Testament does not
mean organizational structure, titles, buildings or
denominations. The “church” is the people who are saved
and justified by faith in Christ, and who are maturing
disciples.
True Fruitfulness
Other terms used in the New Testament for describing
the Church include: “living stones” (1Pet 2:5); “the Body
of Christ” (1Cor 12:27); God’s “field”, “building”, or
“temple” (1Cor 3:9,16,17). All of these terms have this in
common: They all refer to people who are true believers
in Jesus Christ.
This is critically important to understand. As church
leaders, we are called to more than administrating the
church, overseeing new buildings, or coordinating church
functions. We are called to partner with God in discipling
and building people.
We are called by God to pastor and nurture the living
Church of the living God, the believing people – and to
help them become growing disciples of Jesus Christ. We
cannot adequately fulfill this stewardship role without
God’s help and power (see Psalm 127:1).
God will hold us accountable for how we build upon
the One Foundation of salvation through Christ
(1Cor 3:12-23). Are we just drawing a crowd through our
own ideas, strength and cleverness? This can appear to
succeed for a time, but it will not produce the lasting fruit
that God desires (John 15:5,8,16).
Or are we, instead, daily yielding to the Spirit of God
and surrendering to His will? Are we being led by Him as
true sons of God (Rom 8:14), depending upon Him for
every moment of ministry He allows us to have? If so,
6 • ACTS
then by His power and help, we can be truly fruitful, and
our fruit will be of an eternal nature (John 15:16).
Please understand that fruit and fruitfulness are not
defined by God in the same way that human wisdom
might define them. Men might say that fruitfulness is hav-
ing large numbers of people as followers, or becoming
rich and influential. Human wisdom may define it as hav-
ing fame, power or fortune.
But true fruitfulness from God’s perspective is defined
and measured by one criterion: the lives of people being
transformed into the image and character of Christ as they
mature as His disciples. Understanding the following prin-
ciples will help you to grasp the truth of this definition.
Restored To His Likeness
Humanity was created in the image of God
(Gen 1:26,27). This is not necessarily a physical image,
but one of abilities and capacities. “Image” in this scrip-
tural context refers to qualities of reason, intellect, emo-
tion, curiosity and the ability to make choices. We were
created with the capacity to love, sacrifice and appreciate
what is good and true and right.
Why did God make us this way? God made us for one
purpose: for Himself, that we might have relationship with
Him. That is truly our highest calling! God did not need or
desire more angels, or He would have made more of them.
Instead, we see throughout the whole of the Bible that God
desired sons and daughters who would share an intimate
and loving relationship with Him.
But the opportunity for relationship with God was ru-
ined when sin entered the world through Adam and Eve’s
willful disobedience. Their disobedience brought sin to
the whole human race (Rom 5:12-21). Yet, at that time,
God’s awesome plan for the redemption of His relation-
ship with mankind was set into motion (Gen 3:15: “her
Seed” refers to the eventual incarnation and virgin birth of
God the Son, Jesus).
At the appointed time (Gal 4:4,5), Christ came to earth
and died for our sins. His sacrificial act opened the possi-
bility of restored relationship with our Creator God, which
had been destroyed by sin. Through receiving Christ’s
work of salvation and through faith in Him, our sins can
be forgiven, and we can know God and commune with
Him.
The Work Of Transformation
But beyond that, God also wants to set us free from
the effects of sin, and the damage it does in our lives. Thus,
as a direct result of our salvation in Christ, God begins to
work in our lives to transform us back into that “image” in
which we were created.
“For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be
conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the
firstborn among many brethren” (Rom 8:29). This verse
reveals that for those who come to Christ in salvation it is
God’s foreordained will that we are to be changed, so that
we would be “conformed to the image of His Son”.
This work of transformation begins at salvation and
continues throughout our lifetime. God is infinitely wise.
 The Holy Spirit will impact
others through
you.
He designed His Kingdom to function a certain way for
specific reasons. As we are changed more into the “image”
of our original creation (the image of His Son), two criti-
cal things will happen:
1) We will be able to walk in an unhindered and ever-
deepening relationship with God. It is sin that destroyed
and can still destroy our relationship with God. Thus, as
we are freed from sin and its effects, we then have a
greater capacity to experience a more loving and profound
relationship with our Creator.
2) We will be restored to God’s intended place and
purpose for us. Man was not created in or for sin. We were
created in holiness, innocence and purity. All of God’s
original creation was good. “Then God saw everything
that He had made, and indeed it was very good”
(Gen 1:31).
We were not created with flaws, but sin destroyed the
goodness of our original pattern. Therefore, as we are set
free from sin and transformed to be further freed from its
effects, the result will be a greater joy, peace and sense of
freedom in our lives. We will then be far better equipped
to fulfill God’s will and purpose.
Therefore, we can confidently say that personal
transformation is one of God’s highest priorities for
each individual. Transformation is best defined in this
context as “being made more like Jesus in our thoughts,
desires and actions”.
Holy Spirit-Empowered Change
When we are saved, our old life passes away. We
begin a life-long process of all things becoming new
(2Cor 5:17). We are changed by the power of the Spirit
and the Word of God into the “image of His Son”
(Rom 8:29).
This marvelous work of change cannot fully be ac-
complished by our own strength or efforts (Jer 13:23). We
can change ourselves in minor ways, and usually only out-
wardly. We can work very hard to try and discipline our
lives and develop good habits.
But there is much deeper work that we desperately
need, such as: healing from brokenness and pain;
deliverance from rejection and other forms of bondage;
freedom from our selfish and sinful ways. This kind of
change is possible only by the power of the Holy Spirit
(Rom 8:1-11; see also Matthew 19:23-26; Ephesians 2:1-10;
Hebrews 9:13,14).
God requires us to grow and mature after coming to
Christ as Savior. Though His grace and forgiveness are
real and ever-present (1John 1:9), that is never an excuse
for continuing on in sinful or selfish behavior. God does
forgive a stumble or failure; however, one must not con-
tinue in that sin, but instead move forward in their walk
with God (Luke 9:23-26).
Those who will not change or who resist the Holy
Spirit’s process of transformation are actually in rebellion
against God (Jas 1:21-25). God’s judgment upon rebellion
is severe (Prov 29:1; Heb 3:8-11).
The Fruit God Seeks
To be a fruitful minister of the Gospel means that the
lives of the people to whom you minister are being trans-
formed more into the likeness of Jesus. Remember that
being fruitful has little to do with crowds or statistics. It is
easy to get a lot of people in your church. Just offer free
food, clothing or money and you can get a crowd! Or pro-
vide entertainment, tell them things that “tickle their ears”
(2Tim 4:3,4) and make them feel good.
But a crowd does not make a congregation. A large
gathering of people does not necessarily mean that you
have a healthy New Testament church or that you are mak-
ing disciples!
The question we must always ask ourselves about our
ministry is this: “Are the lives of the people I minister to
being changed to be more like Jesus?” Is your goal more
people in your church, or is it making true disciples who
are maturing and growing in Christ? It does not matter
whether there are 10 people or 1,000 people – you are
being fruitful if your flock is becoming more like Jesus!
The Right Kind Of Weakness
We have established that being transformed into
Christ’s likeness is God’s will for all followers of Christ.
We know this cannot be fully accomplished by human ef-
fort, but only by the power and presence of the Holy
Spirit. So what does this teach us about how we must con-
duct the ministry God has given us?
Simply put, we must understand this: It is the evident
and present power of the Holy Spirit working and
moving without restraint through a yielded human
vessel that will bring the greatest impact upon another
person’s life.
This may seem like such an obvious truth! But how
often do our well-meaning human efforts take the place
of the work of the Holy Spirit in our midst?
If we are honest as leaders and take a hard look at our-
selves, we must admit that often we are the problem. It
ACTS • 7
does not take long in ministry for us to recognize that we
are insufficient for the task. So we get busy with pro-
grams, education and other means to be effective or suc-
cessful. But the reality is that we do not have it within
ourselves to accomplish all that God wants to do! Can you
admit that about yourself?
As leaders, we want to be our best at all times. But
our best human efforts are not enough to fully accomplish
God’s will and purpose.
This may sound like bad news. But in reality – if we
are willing to accept it and embrace it – our insufficiency
is the beginning point of good news! Look at what one of
the greatest apostles wrote about this seeming paradox:
“Concerning this thing [Paul’s ‘thorn in the flesh’,
v.7] I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might de-
part from me. And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient
for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’
Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities,
that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I
take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in
persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I
am weak, then I am strong” (2Cor 12:8-10).
Paul did not accept an attitude of defeat, nor did he
think he was being punished by God. Rather, Paul rejoiced
in his revelation and personal experience of the overcom-
ing grace of God!
It is by God’s grace that we have the life and victory
of an overcomer (Rom 8:37). But it was Paul’s yielded
surrender and open acknowledgement of his need that
both opened the way for and released the power of the
Holy Spirit in and through his life.
God's Plan
for your
life
ANO
INT
ING
8 • ACTS
Paul did not try to hide or cover his weakness, but
rather “boasted in infirmities” (v.9) and “took pleasure”
(v.10) in his difficulties. For it was at these points that Paul
was totally reliant upon God’s power and sufficiency –
and he was able to experience that power which sustained
and enabled him! (See also 2 Corinthians 3:1-6.)
Pastor To Pastor: The nature of Paul’s “thorn in
the flesh” is unknown to us. But we do know that it was
not sin or moral failure by Paul. God will never excuse
our sin, but rather convicts and disciplines us to bring us
to true repentance (Prov 3:11,12; 2Cor 7:9,10; 1John
1:9). There is nothing hidden from God. Though His
mercy may allow a person time to come to repentance,
He is not fooled when we try to hide sin. Our sin will
eventually be found out (Num 32:23; Gal 6:7;
1Tim 5:24). ■
God Uses The Humble
For the purposes of this teaching, let us define weak-
ness as:
• recognizing our inability to perform God’s will
on our own;
• yielding our hearts and utterly depending upon
the power of the Holy Spirit;
• allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us to
accomplish the things of eternal value in min-
istry – changed lives – by His power and not our
own.
Church leaders often feel a great deal of pressure to be
a “success” in ministry. Unfortunately, our ideas of suc-
cess are often defined by the world’s standards or even by
our own pride. We want to be important in the eyes of oth-
ers. We want to be “great” in God’s Kingdom so that God
will greatly use us!
But the reality is, and always has been, that there are
no great men of God – only humble men greatly used of
God! (See Matthew 20:20-28.)
Again, the key ingredient for truly fruitful ministry is
the presence and working of the Holy Spirit! God is not
opposed to people who have education, organizational
gifts or many talents. But none of these is adequate to re-
place the anointing power of the Holy Spirit in ministry.
God can use our abilities and gifts to enrich our ef-
fectiveness. But He has made it very clear in His Word
that “without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). It is
“‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the
LORD of hosts” (Zech 4:6).
God knows what we need and has already made per-
fect provision for us. He has made available the Anoint-
ing of the Holy Spirit in order for us to be fruitful as we
fulfill His call to ministry.
Therefore, let us now study together to gain a solid,
biblical understanding of The Anointing of the Holy
Spirit.
This study will seek to: 1) define the anointing, what
it is and what it is not; 2) explain how the anointing func-
tions in and through a minister’s life; and, 3) reveal how
we can both receive and grow in that anointing. 
 The Anointing
PART I
HISTORICAL AND BIBLICAL
BACKGROUND OF ANOINTING
A. ANOINTING IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
In order to fully understand the Old Testament, we
must also use the New Testament. The New Testament
scriptures are like a “lens” that often helps give focus and
clarity to the Old Covenant (“Testament”) scriptures.
The New Testament explains that the Old Testament
(the Old Covenant or Old Agreement) of the Law is the
Word of God (Matt 5:17,18; 2Pet 1:20,21). However, we
now live under the New Covenant (“testament” or “agree-
ment”) of grace and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ
as Savior. We no longer live under the Old Covenant of
Law and we cannot attain salvation through our own
works (Gal 3:21-25).
The New Covenant has superseded the Old Covenant
(see Hebrews Chapters 7-8). This New Covenant fulfills
the Old Covenant (Matt 5:17,18; Luke 24:25-27) and es-
tablishes a “new and living way” (Heb 10:20) as a basis
for man’s relationship to God.
However, the Old Testament scriptures are still part
of God’s eternal Word (Isa 40:8). As we study the Old
Covenant, we can still learn many important principles
that can apply to our lives under the New Covenant.
Paul, in writing to the Corinthians (1Cor 10:1-13), ex-
plains that the history, events and lessons recorded in the
Old Testament should be studied, understood and applied
to our lives as New Testament believers. “Now these
things became our examples…” (1Cor 10:6).
Thus, we can gain valuable insights about the anoint-
ing of the Holy Spirit that is now available to New Tes-
tament believers by studying the pictures or “types” of
anointing foreshadowed in the Old Testament.
1. Origin of the word “anoint”
The Hebrew word for anoint in the Old Testament is
masah, and is used 69 times. This word means to apply
oil by pouring, spreading or smearing it upon the object or
person being anointed.
of the
Holy Spirit
The practice of anointing was common among many
cultures and people of the ancient Middle East. This prac-
tice had both an ordinary and a sacred use. For instance,
anointing guests as an act of hospitality was done even in
Jesus’ day (Ps 23:5; Luke 7:46; John 12:3).
But the practice of anointing had a far more profound
use in the Old Testament for the people of Israel. We en-
counter anointing for the first time when Jacob memori-
alized his first meeting with God. Jacob anointed the stone
on which he had laid his head while he dreamed
(Gen 28:10-18).
Later, oil was used to anoint the altar and other ob-
jects used in the worship of God in the Tabernacle
(Ex 30:26-29; Lev 8:10,11). The priests were also
anointed with oil (Ex 28:41; 30:30; Lev 8:12). The prac-
tice of anointing was also extended to kings (1Sam 9:16;
15:1; 16:3,12) and occasionally to prophets (1Ki 19:16).
Anointing was used for three important purposes in
the Old Testament. First, it was used to consecrate: to set
aside for a holy use, as in certain physical objects. This
included authorizing the object for service to God (i.e.,
the implements used in the Tabernacle for worship,
Ex 30:26-29).
Second, the act of anointing, though done by a human
agent, was considered to be from God. A clear example of
this is when Samuel anointed both Saul and David to serve
as kings over Israel (1Sam 10:1; 16:12,13; 2Sam 12:7).
This anointing represented God’s choosing and calling of
an individual to be His appointed servant.
Third, this anointing was, in some cases, accompa-
nied by a divine enablement. This was from God and
was directly associated with accomplishing the task that
God had assigned to the person being anointed (see
1 Samuel 16:1-13; 2 Kings 2:9-15).
2. Origin of the word “messiah”
Taken from the root word masah of the Hebrew word
ACTS • 9
masiah, this has been translated as messiah, and means
“anointed one”. It is used 39 times in the Old Testament to
identify a wide range of individuals. The most obvious use
is for the Messiah – Jesus, the Son of God (Isa 9:7;
11:1-5; Isaiah Chapter 53). But this word is also used to
designate Israel’s kings in 1 and 2 Samuel and the Psalms.
It is used primarily to indicate the royal lineage of David
(Ps 2:2; 18:50; 84:9; etc).
B. ANOINTING IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
Three different words are used in the New Testament
for “anoint”. Each of these words reveals a different aspect
of anointing.
1. Aleipho (used eight times): actual, physical rubbing
on of oil or ointment (see Mark 6:13; Luke 7:38,46; James
5:14). In James 5:14, the anointing did not have a medical
purpose. Rather, this anointing was symbolic of both the
presence of the Holy Spirit and the sick person’s conse-
cration to ask in faith for God’s healing.
It should be noted that it is not wrong to receive med-
ical help. God created the elements from which medicines
are made and the wisdom for doctors to use them prop-
erly. However, Christians should live by faith in all of
life’s decisions. We should not look to prayer as the last
option when nothing else works. When there is sickness or
injury, seek God first for healing. If God miraculously
heals, then praise His Name! If God chooses to use med-
icine and doctors to heal, then praise His Name! If there
is no healing, then still praise His Name – for our ultimate
healing and final home is in His presence when we will
see Him face to face (1Thess 4:16-18). Our God is always
trustworthy and faithful!
2. Chrio (used five times): indicates a special ap-
pointment or commission by God that sets the person(s)
apart to fulfill a given assignment (see Luke 4:18;
Acts 10:38; 2 Corinthians 1:21; Hebrews 1:9).
3. Chrisma (used three times): an empowerment by
the Holy Spirit to know what is true and right; the power
of the Holy Spirit working in tandem with the Word of
God in the heart of the believer.
Both 1 John 2:20 and 2:27 refer to the ministry of the
Holy Spirit revealing truth to the heart of the Christ-fol-
lower (see also John 14:16,17,26; 1 Corinthians 2:10-16;
Ephesians 1:17,18).
The apostle John was writing this letter (1 John) to
counter the heresy of a group of people who claimed to
have a special knowledge of God. These false teachers de-
nied that God the Son had come in the flesh [incarnation]
(1John 2:18-23). They claimed that only they had a true
knowledge of God and that all must follow them.
But John reassured the Christians that these others
were operating under the demonic influence of the spirit
of Antichrist (v.18). John counters these false teachings
by reminding the believers that they already have the Holy
Spirit and know what is true (v.20). He also points out that
it is the Holy Spirit who “teaches you concerning all
things” (v.27).
John is not lessening or disqualifying the ministry of
teaching (see Romans 12:7 and Ephesians 4:11); rather,
10 • ACTS
John highlights the ministry of the Holy Spirit, who guides
us into understanding the Truth in God’s Word
(John 16:13).
The Anointed One
We have learned that messiah means “anointed one”.
The Gospels of the New Testament leave no doubt that
Jesus of Nazareth was (and is) THE Messiah, THE
Anointed One! Jesus was (and is) anointed for a particu-
lar mission or purpose.
In the original Greek language of the New Testament,
Jesus is called “the Christ” or “Jesus Christ”. “Jesus” is
a name. But the term “Christ” is a title that means “the
anointed”. The entire New Testament clearly reveals Jesus
to be the Anointed One (John 1:41; 4:25,26).
The Jews were looking for a messiah (Hebrew for
“anointed one”), a king in the royal line of David, who
would restore national Israel to its former glory as in the
days of Solomon. Because of this, many Jews rejected
Jesus. He did not fit their faulty and incorrect precon-
ceptions of the promised Messiah (Matt 11:1-19;
John 6:26-29).
The Jews did not see that God had a much larger plan
that extended beyond them (Isa 42:5-9; 49:5,6; Acts 4:8-
12; 13:44-49). God gave them (and us) something far
more than a temporary earthly king. He gave to the world
the King of kings, a true Savior for all, for all eternity –
Jesus, the Messiah, all glory to His name!
Summary
Anointing in the Old Testament was a ritual of great
significance. The anointing of physical objects, priests,
prophets and kings consecrated them to God’s purposes.
However, we must note that this anointing was only a type
or foreshadowing of what God would fulfill under the
New Covenant.
Under the New Covenant, there was to be a new and
living way for relationship between God and man. This
was first signaled by the sending of Jesus (John 7:28,29),
the Son of God, the Anointed One, to carry out God’s pur-
pose and assignment (John 3:14-17). Jesus fulfilled this
by dying on the Cross for our sins, thus opening the door
of salvation for all who would believe in Him
(Rom 10:9-13; Eph 2:1-10; Heb 7:11-25; 9:11-15).
Part of God the Father’s plan of salvation for
mankind was the provision of divine help for those who
would believe in His Son. Believers could have all the
help and power they would need to fulfill God’s will for
them.
Thus, when Jesus had finished His God-appointed
work on earth (John 17:4; 19:30), He promised to send us
the “Helper” (John 7:37-39; 15:26; 16:5-15). That Helper
(Comforter) is the Holy Spirit – God the Spirit.
What was foreshadowed by type in the Old Testament
with the pouring or spreading of oil (anointing) was now
to become a full reality for the believers in Jesus Christ in
the New Testament (Covenant). This was begun when
God the Spirit was poured out on the Day of Pentecost
(Joel 2:28-32; Luke 24:49; Acts 2:1-39). 
 The Anointing
PART II
THE NATURE, PURPOSE AND
FUNCTION OF ANOINTING
A. THE NATURE OF ANOINTING
There is a great deal of confusion about the subject of
anointing, due to a lack of sound, biblical teaching and
study on the subject. In this section, we will define anoint-
ing as it is revealed to us in the Scriptures.
Later in this section, we will define what anointing
actually is; but for now, let us clarify what the anointing
is NOT.
1. What The Anointing Is NOT
a. Anointing is NOT an impersonal force or mysti-
cal power. Anointing is not like electricity (a non-living
force), nor is it some type of magical power. Simon the
magician (Acts 8:9-25) had a type of power (demonic);
but he soon realized that what he had was nothing com-
pared to the power residing within the apostles. The
anointing of God is supernatural and spiritual.
b. Anointing, as spoken of in Scripture, is NOT
simple emotionalism, displaying a strong personality
or a particular style of preaching. God often does touch
our emotions when we are moving in the power of His
anointing. But just showing strong emotions does not
mean God’s anointing is present. People can display
strong emotions when entertaining or playing sports. But,
of course, that does not mean God’s anointing is present!
Some people think that when a preacher is loud or gets
excited and jumps about, he is anointed. But true anoint-
of the
Holy Spirit
ing from God may or may not be manifest in outward,
physical actions.
In the same way, the presence of God’s anointing can-
not be “earned” or obtained by education, knowledge or
organization. Neither are great natural talents or abilities
a sign of God’s anointing. Though our natural, human tal-
ents are gifts from God, even an unsaved person can have
and use their talents. Having talents and abilities must not
be confused with anointing.
It is true that God can empower our abilities with His
anointing to release them beyond what we could accom-
plish in our own power, as He did with Solomon
(1Ki 4:29-34). But our talent and ability are never to re-
place dependency upon God for His divine enablement.
The anointing from God is divine and supernatural,
and involves His power and abilities!
c. Anointing is not salvation. Every person who has
repented of their sins and turned to Christ for salvation
has the Holy Spirit! But that is not the same as the
anointing of the Holy Spirit.
Let us look at the works of the Holy Spirit at
salvation:
• A person can be born again only by the work and
power of the Holy Spirit (John 3:3-8; Rom 8:9,16).
• A person is supernaturally joined to Christ’s universal
Body at salvation, Christ’s Body being all of those
who have faith in Him for salvation (1Cor 12:13).
ACTS • 11

The Holy Spirit
ministers in us and
through us.
• A person is “sealed” by the Holy Spirit at salvation
(2Cor 1:22; 5:5; Eph 1:13,14). The Greek word for
“sealed” is arrabon, meaning guarantee or down-pay-
ment. But beyond those simple definitions is a deeper
meaning. First, to be “sealed” means to be marked as
belonging to God. It is a living symbol that God has
accepted the payment made for us. That payment is
the blood sacrifice of God’s Son for our sins
(Eph 1:7). Second, as we come to Christ in faith for
salvation (Rom 10:9,10) the Holy Spirit is given to us
as a “deposit” or “first installment” of God’s invest-
ment in us. This investment is God’s guarantee (or
promise) that we can increase daily in the life, joy,
blessing and power of the Holy Spirit until the day
when God receives us fully to Himself in Heaven!
(Phil 1:6; 2Pet 1:5-11).
The work and ministry of the Holy Spirit begins in us
and through us at salvation. What we receive when we are
first saved is but the first step in our maturing process.
God’s will for all believers is that they become mature dis-
ciples as His sons and daughters. This requires a constant
commitment on our part to personal growth and transfor-
mation. We must daily yield to the work of the Holy Spirit
in our lives as He convicts us, disciplines us, encourages
us and empowers us!
Pastor To Pastor: As a pastor and leader of the
church, you are called by God to be an example to
the rest of the flock of a commitment to be ever-grow-
ing in the things of God. It is tempting to think that, as
leaders, we no longer need to make our personal
growth in Christ a priority. But the exact opposite is
true! (See 1 Peter 5:2,3.)
Because we are leaders, we should all the more
be examples of Jesus’ words: “If anyone desires to
come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his
cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). Every be-
liever has been given the Holy Spirit at salvation; let
us submit, then, to His work and influence in our lives
every day! ■
12 • ACTS
d. Anointing is NOT the same as the Baptism of the
Holy Spirit. This baptism is a distinct experience, avail-
able to all believers in Christ (Matt 3:11). Holy Spirit bap-
tism is also not the same as the Holy Spirit coming to
dwell within the believer at salvation.
The gift of the Holy Spirit was prophesied by the
prophet Joel over 800 years before this gift was poured
out on the Day of Pentecost (see Joel 2:28-32 and
Acts 2:1-39).
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is designed to equip
every follower of Christ to be more useful and power-
filled for the work of the Master! It will lead the believer
in Christ to:
• a deeper passion for souls;
• a greater power in and desire for prayer;
• a deeper love for Christ and His Body;
• an equipping for spiritual warfare;
• an increased insight into the Word of God.
All believers in Christ receive the indwelling gift of the
Holy Spirit at salvation (John 3:5,6; Rom 8:15,16). The
Baptism of the Holy Spirit is for an infilling and over-
flowing of God’s Spirit. This baptism does not make you
more saved or more loved by God. But it will better equip
you to live a more effective and overcoming life in Christ!
If you have received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit,
be reminded that this is not a one-time experience to sim-
ply attain; rather, it is a lifestyle to be maintained. We are
to continually be filled! [See Part III, Section C.1., “Be
Filled!”, for more on this subject.]
Pastor To Pastor: When studying the Holy Spirit,
a word must be said also about the presence of other
spirits in our world. There are three categories of spir-
its operating on the earth in this present day:
1) Demon spirits
Demon spirits are present on the earth today.
Their self-given assignment is to lead all of humanity
astray (Rev 12:7-9) and to blind them to the truth of
who Jesus is (2Cor 4:4; 1John 2:22; 4:1-3). The de-
monic realm works primarily through false religions.
They use deception as their most powerful instrument,
working with the devil who is “a liar and the father of
lies” (John 8:44 nas).
Demon spirits have strong influence over non-be-
lievers (2Cor 4:3,4). But they also attempt to target
true believers in Christ, those through whom the glo-
rious light of the Gospel is preached (Eph 6:10-12;
2Cor 10:3-5; 11:3). The demonic realm, just like sin,
has no power over Christians – unless a Christian
willingly chooses to cooperate with their schemes or
temptations.
Satan will use human vessels (even some who
claim they are Christians) to try to lead people astray
(Matt 24:24; 2Cor 11:13-15; 2 Peter Chapter 2).
Demons will even speak partial truth on occasion
(Matt 4:1-11; Mark 5:1-8; Acts 16:16-19), but will
never do so to glorify God or advance His will.
Demon spirits know that God is real and true:
...Continued on the next page...
 “You believe that there is one God. You do well. • He is a Person, as Jesus and the Father are Per-
Even the demons believe – and tremble” (Jas 2:19). sons (John 14:16,17,26); He can be grieved
But demons are not repentant. They are working (Eph 4:30)
hard to deceive humanity, for they know that judg- A complete study of the Person of the Holy Spirit
ment is coming soon upon them (Rev 12:12). is far more extensive than this article will allow. How-
2) Human spirits ever, both the Old and New Testaments reveal that:
Each and every human that is conceived has a the Holy Spirit is real and is God; He is co-existent,
spirit. Man is made up of three parts: a body, a soul co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and the Son;
and a spirit (1Thess 5:23; Heb 4:12). Our spirit, how- and He is the third Person of the Trinity. ■
ever, is dead within us until we are made spiritually
alive through faith in Christ (Eph 2:1-8). e. Anointing is NOT the same thing as sanctifica-
The Bible teaches that once a human has died tion. Let us define and briefly study sanctification to gain
physically, their spirit leaves their body. Those who a better understanding of this important biblical process.
are in Christ go to be present with the Lord
(2Cor 5:6,8). Those who die without Christ are held Sanctification Defined
for the day of judgment (Heb 9:27; Rev 20:11-15). Sanctification has two important meanings. The first
The spirits of dead humans are not allowed to wan- is consecration – a setting apart of someone or something
der about on the earth! Nor are they reincarnated into for a specific and holy use.
another human or any other form. Every person has We have learned from the Old Testament that this per-
but ONE life, then the judgment (Heb 9:27). tained to physical objects, such as: houses (Lev 27:14); a
There are many religions that worship many field (Lev 27:16); utensils used in the Temple
kinds of spirits. Some even believe that they can (2Chr 29:18,19). These were all sanctified and set apart
communicate with the spirit of an ancestor or another for a holy use.
dead individual. But these people are not communi- People were also set apart for a special purpose:
cating with dead humans; they are in reality commu- Israel’s firstborn (Ex 13:2); priests (2Chr 29:4,5,15);
nicating with demon spirits that are masquerading as Jeremiah the prophet (Jer 1:5); Jesus Himself, as the
the spirits of dead humans. sinless Son of God (John 10:36; 17:19).
Do not be deceived by these counterfeits! The The second meaning of sanctification is cleansing – a
Bible teaches that Satan and his demons can even cleansing or purifying from moral defilement. For in-
appear as “an angel of light” and try to imitate stance, Paul when he addressed the condition of a be-
something godly (2Cor 11:14). If they can achieve liever’s entire life (1Thess 5:23); the conscience of a
that, it is not hard for them to mimic the voice or know believer (Heb 9:13,14); etc.
the history of a person who is dead. Never attempt to
communicate with the dead, or take part in any rituals
or ceremonies attempting to worship or pray to
ancestors or other dead humans. If you do, you are
inviting demonic interaction!
3) The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, and is the only
Spirit worthy of being called holy (Rom 1:4). The Holy
Spirit is fully God, as the Father is God and Jesus
is God (Matt 28:19; 2Cor 13:14).
Divine attributes are ascribed to the Holy Spirit in
Scripture:
• He is called God (John 4:24;
Acts 5:3,4; 1Cor 3:16; 2Cor 3:17)
• He is eternal (Heb 9:14)
• He is omniscient [all-knowing]
(John 14:26; 1Cor 2:10)
• He is omnipresent [everywhere present]
(Ps 139:7)
• He is omnipotent [all-powerful] (Luke 1:35;
at creation, Gen 1:2)
• He has foreknowledge (Acts 1:16; 11:27,28)
• He has love (Rom 15:30)
• He inspired Scripture (2Pet 1:21; 2Tim 3:16) Sanctification:
• He is the Agent in divine guidance
(Mark 13:11; Rom 8:14) being set apart for a holy use.
ACTS • 13

Pastor To Pastor: These two definitions of sanc-
tification help to highlight the difference between the
Old Testament concept of sanctification and that of
the New Testament.
In the Old Testament, that which was common
was considered holy and sanctified when it was set
apart specifically for God’s use or service.
In the New Testament, that which was common
was filled with God’s Spirit and transformed to be-
come a vessel fit for the Master’s use (2Tim 2:19-21).
As leaders in Christ’s Body, we have been called
with a holy calling (2Tim 1:9). This calling separates us
to Christ’s service. Yet God is not finished at that point.
He begins a “sanctifying” work within us, continuously
transforming us by His Spirit and His Word. As we co-
operate with this work and obey the Word, He trans-
forms us into the type of person whose thoughts,
words and actions in daily life reflect the One who is
Lord within us. ■
2. Three Aspects Of Sanctification
a. Positional Sanctification – An Accomplished
Work. Jesus, while on this earth, was morally perfect and
without sin. He was sent here by the Father to accomplish
the purpose of coming to our fallen world and offering
Himself as a sacrifice for the penalty of our sins. Through
Him, and only through Him, can we have forgiveness, sal-
vation and redemption to God.
When a person comes to faith in Christ and surren-
ders to Christ’s Lordship, that person is sovereignly joined
to the Body of Christ, the Church (1Cor 12:13). The Greek
word for “church” is ekklesia, meaning the “called-out
ones”. This definition helps us to see how every believer
in Christ is intended to be called out or set apart for God’s
use.
This type of sanctification – being set apart for a holy
use – is known as positional sanctification (see 1Corinthi-
ans 1:30; 6:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:13). This positional
sanctification is an accomplished work of God that is
given to every individual at salvation (Acts 26:18;
Rom 15:16; 1Cor 6:11).
Christ shed His own blood and gave His life for our
sins. One of the finished works this accomplished was the
sanctification of those who believe in Him. “By that will
we have been sanctified through the offering of the body
of Jesus Christ once for all” (Heb 10:10); “But of Him
you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from
God – and righteousness and sanctification and redemp-
tion” (1Cor 1:30).
Being a “sanctified one” is why the believers in the
early Church were called “saints” (1Cor 1:2; Eph 1:1).
This sanctification is given freely to us because of
Christ’s finished work at the cross. We can never do
enough good works or religious efforts to earn it. We can
never be “good enough” to earn God’s acceptance or sal-
vation on our own merit.
When our sinless, morally perfect Heavenly Father
looks upon us, He is aware of every imperfection and fail-
14 • ACTS
ure. And yet, He sees us through the covering (sanctifying)
blood of Jesus, His Son. This “covering” for our sins is
the only way we can ever be perfectly acceptable to a holy
and righteous God (Eph 1:6,7). This is truly Good News!
Through the eternal blood of the Sinless Lamb, be-
lievers have been sanctified (Heb 10:11-14; 13:12).
Christ’s offering of His shed blood is a once-and-for-all
work of sanctification (Heb 9:28; 10:12). We do not need
a “second work of grace” (as some teach) in order to be
acceptable to God. The moment we believe in Christ and
His sacrifice for our sins (Rom 10:9,10), God reckons to
us the holiness of Christ and declares us “sanctified”
(1Cor 1:30).
b. Progressive Sanctification – A Practical Process.
The second part of the three-fold meaning of sanctifi-
cation is the process of sanctification that continues
throughout a believer’s lifetime. It is often referred to as
progressive sanctification.
We have already learned that positional sanctification
is a sovereign act of God that grants to us the holiness pro-
vided only by Christ’s sacrifice. We cannot earn this by
any human effort, since the whole of humanity is hope-
lessly lost under sin (Rom 3:9-26).
But once a person comes to faith in Christ for salva-
tion, the next great work of God is the process of “being
transformed into the same image [of Christ] from glory to
glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2Cor 3:18). For it
is God’s will that we “be conformed to the image of His
Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren”
(Rom 8:29).
This process of (or progressive) sanctification is dif-
ferent from the positional form of sanctification. Posi-
tional sanctification is a single, sovereign act done by God
when we receive Christ’s saving work. But progressive
sanctification involves our will, desires and effort on a
consistent basis.
This action and lifelong commitment to being “trans-
formed” is a divine/human partnership. Believers must
partner with God and cooperate with His divine work of
transformation in their lives.
The Bible is clear that all Christ-followers are to give
every effort to becoming more like Christ, living holy and
pure lives. “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let
us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and
spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2Cor 7:1).
We are told to “put off, concerning your former con-
duct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the
deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind,
and that you put on the new man which was created ac-
cording to God, in true righteousness and holiness”
(Eph 4:22-24). Please take a moment right now to read the
following scriptures, which are just a few of the many ex-
hortations on this subject: Romans 6:11-13; 12:1,2; 13:14;
2 Timothy 2:20,21; 1 Peter 1:13-19; 1 John 3:3.
This is a vital aspect of our Christian faith. Yet it is
also where many believers fail to become all that God
would intend for them. They remain bound in anger, sin,
bondage or fear, rather than allowing God to free them
from those things. Though they may try in their own
strength to break ungodly habits or practices, they are
unaware of their need for God’s help to become totally
free.
It is clear from Scripture that it is impossible to become
holy and morally pure without the power of God to help us
(Jer 13:23; 17:9,10; Rom 3:20,23; 7:18). Yes, the blood of
Christ provides the basis for our initial sanctification
(Heb 10:29). But it is the constant working together of both
the Holy Spirit and the eternal Word of God (Eph 5:26)
which will continuously shape us more into the image of
Christ (Rom 8:29,30; 2Cor 3:18; Phil 1:6; 1Pet 5:10). This
work is a lifelong process that will continue until we at last
see Him “face to face” (1Cor 13:12; 1John 3:2).
God desires to constantly work within us to shape us.
Yet He also must have our full cooperation and effort as
aided by the Holy Spirit and God’s Word. We must choose
to hear and obey, to listen and respond to the instructions
of God’s Word and from the Holy Spirit.
This progressive sanctification is a lifelong transfor-
mation. We will never be perfect or sinless in this life
(1John 1:8), but we can and must be continually growing
into spiritual maturity.
c. Complete Or Final Sanctification. Our sinless
perfection awaits the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ or
the moment when, at our death, we pass from this life into
the presence of the Lord. That is when we will be deliv-
ered from this corruptible body of flesh and “in the twin-
kling of an eye, at the last trumpet” (1Cor 15:52) be
changed into incorruptible and immortal beings
(1Cor 15:45-47; see also Philippians 3:20,21; 1 John 3:2).
At the cross, when Christ died for our sins, we were
saved from the penalty of sin. As we grow in faith and
holiness, we are freed more and more from the power of
sin. And when Christ returns (or when we die in the Lord)
we shall be saved from the presence of sin!
Sanctification is not anointing. Yet sanctification (es-
pecially progressive sanctification) is critically important
to the subject of anointing. Living a holy and committed
life has a direct impact upon the flow of anointing through
our lives and ministries. [This will be discussed further in
Part III, Section A., “Protecting The Anointing”.]
3. The Pathway To Growth
Christians are to be constantly growing. The Bible
exhorts us to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our
Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2Pet 3:18; see also
2 Peter 1:5-11).
Progressive sanctification is a process requiring a
partnership between God and each individual
(Phil 2:12,13). God is in action on our behalf, since we
must have His help to become Christ-like in character. But
what is our part in the process?
We must:
a. Have faith toward Christ. Without faith, we can
neither receive the gift of salvation nor receive Christ’s
gift of positional sanctification. At salvation, Christ be-
comes our sanctification (1Cor 1:30). We receive this gift
from Him through faith in Him (Acts 26:18).
b. Yield our lives to God. This is how we begin our
lives as Christians; this is how we must live daily as
well. A continual yielding or surrendering to God is of
primary importance. He is the One who knows what is
necessary to shape us more into Christ’s image. (See
Romans 6:13,19-21; 12:1,2; 2 Timothy 2:21.) Daily sur-
render to God is also necessary for our faith to grow and
be strengthened, as we choose to depend upon Him and
trust in Him (Heb 11:6).
c. Obey God’s Word. The Holy Scriptures are our
final standard for faith and conduct. “How can a young
man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your
word” (Ps 119:9). The Holy Spirit will use the Word of
God to speak to us and shape our character (John 14:26).
The Word of God will equip us and make us useful tools
for God’s glory (2Tim 3:16,17). God’s Word will cleanse
us (Eph 5:26). The Bible also reveals to us our innermost
motives and thoughts (Heb 4:12). We must read the Bible
every day; and then we must obey it (Jas 1:22). God sup-
plies all that is necessary for us to live and grow in godli-
ness (2Pet 1:3,4). But we must give our willing
cooperation and obedience!
d. Make a personal commitment to pursue holi-
ness. “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, with-
out which no one will see the Lord” (Heb 12:14; see also
Matthew 5:8).
Peter exhorts believers to be sober and place their
hope fully in the grace of God. We are to obey God and
not be conformed to the former lusts that once controlled
us. This divine expectation for our holiness is because God
is holy in character and righteous in all His judgments
(1Pet 1:13-21). The point of our lives and our destiny is
not a life of happiness or ease, but holiness.
The pursuit of a holy lifestyle – in our actions,
thoughts, relationships and words – is not optional for the
follower of Christ. We should never tolerate what is not in
keeping with a holy God! Our model and example is not
what others do (Christian or not), or the compromises of
behavior we may witness even in other leaders. Our final
guide for life is not our culture, tribe or family. As citizens
of Christ’s Kingdom (Phil 3:17-20), we are responsible to
follow first and foremost what God has revealed to us
through His Word by the Holy Spirit; that is what we must
strive to obey! (Luke 9:23-26)
If we will diligently live our lives by the holy stan-
dard of God’s revealed character and Word, we are guar-
anteed to grow in sanctification. And as we grow in
sanctification, we become a “vessel for honor, sanctified
and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work”
(2Tim 2:21).
B. THE PURPOSE OF ANOINTING
Because there is some confusion regarding anointing,
we have taken the time in the previous section to identify
what anointing is not. Let us briefly review what we have
learned:
• Anointing is not a mystical or impersonal force.
• Anointing is not gifting, ability, talent, emotional-
ism or a charismatic personality.
ACTS • 15
 • Anointing is not salvation.
• Anointing is not the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
• Anointing is not the sanctification of the believer.
1. Anointing Defined
So what then is anointing?
Anointing can best be defined in this way:
Anointing is none other than the Person and pres-
ence of the Holy Spirit, bringing with Him the neces-
sary power, authority and gifts to fulfill the Father’s
will in a given moment of ministry or assignment.
It must be said that the Holy Spirit is directly involved
in each of the other five important items listed above.
Without the presence and action of God the Spirit, those
five critical aspects in the life of every believer could not
take place.
However, this facet of the Holy Spirit’s work called
anointing has a unique and specific purpose.
2. Power With A Purpose
a. Divine Enablement. The primary purpose of the
anointing of the Holy Spirit is to give the believer super-
natural enablement.
This enablement is given to whomever God wills, in
order to help them to accomplish what God wants done. It
may be to speak or preach, to do a work, to sing or play a
musical instrument. It may be to lay hands on the sick for
healing or for God to perform other signs and wonders. It
can also help one to pray and intercede more effectively.
It is also important to note that God can anoint an in-
dividual for enhanced ability to lead or perform a skill
even in business or a trade (see Exodus 31:3).
It is God’s desire to anoint His people for ministry op-
portunities both within and outside His Church – but re-
member, it is for HIS purposes and glory, not our own!
Remember what anointing is: It is God by His Spirit
Anointing can
enhance musical
or other skills.
16 • ACTS
giving to a yielded human vessel whatever power, author-
ity and gifts are needed to fulfill the Father’s will in a
given moment of ministry or assignment.
It is important to understand that anointing is the
Person of the Holy Spirit! God’s power is not separate
from His Person and presence. When we say that someone
is anointed, we mean that the Person of the Holy Spirit is
uniquely present in their life to accomplish God’s will
through them.
b. Who can experience this anointing? As you read
the Old Testament, it is easy to recognize when the Holy
Spirit came upon a prophet, judge, king, priest, etc.
However, the dispensation of the Holy Spirit in the
Old Testament was different from that in the New Testa-
ment. The apostle John wrote, “But this He spoke con-
cerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would
receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because
Jesus was not yet glorified” (John 7:39).
The Holy Spirit, who is fully God, exists from all eter-
nity. He was active in creation (Gen 1:2) and throughout
the Old Testament. But God the Father had not yet fully
given God the Spirit until God the Son had opened the
pathway of salvation through His sacrificial death on the
cross (John 14:16,17; 16:7).
Pastor To Pastor: As Bible-believing Christians,
we do not worship three gods. Rather, we worship
One God who expresses Himself in three Persons.
Within God, there are three “persons” who are nei-
ther three gods nor three parts. These three are One,
and each is co-equally and co-eternally God. Our lim-
ited minds have great difficulty comprehending God’s
three-in-one nature. But Scripture does reveal this
truth about Him. ■
There is one primary difference between the dispen-
sation of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament and the dis-
pensation in the New Testament. In the Old Testament, the
Holy Spirit temporarily came upon a chosen human ves-
sel. The Holy Spirit would enable the individual (prophet,
priest, judge, etc.) to perform God’s will at that moment.
Then the Holy Spirit would lift off of them until the next
moment of ministry assignment.
However, in the New Testament, the Holy Spirit was
given to take up residence in human hearts and to live in
an abiding relationship with them. Let us look at a few ex-
amples of the Holy Spirit anointing in the New Testament:
Jesus
The first person in the New Testament to be anointed
by the Holy Spirit is – Jesus! Jesus received the empow-
ering anointing of the Holy Spirit at His baptism in water
(Matt 3:16). After Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, His
first act of public ministry was to read Isaiah 61:1,2 in the
synagogue. He then declared that these Messianic scrip-
tures were now fulfilled (Luke 4:14-21).
You will note that the Holy Spirit’s anointing spoken
of in Isaiah 61:1,2 was to enable the fulfillment of the
Father’s will through Jesus’ earthly ministry.

The anointing will change us
during our life.
Jesus was both fully God and fully man while in His
physical body on earth (Phil 2:5-8). Yet He needed the
power of the Holy Spirit to do the Father’s will. If Jesus,
the Son of God, needed the Holy Spirit, how much more
so do you and I? (See also Acts 10:38.)
The Early Church
The Leaders of the Early Church
On the Day of Pentecost (Acts 1:12 - 2:4), the leaders
of the early Church and the remaining disciples were pray-
ing in an upper room. Those present included the original
11 apostles (Judas being dead), the newest apostle chosen
by lot to replace Judas, and a small group of other disci-
ples (approximately 120 people in all). Suddenly, the
promise of the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:28-32) was poured out
upon them (Acts 2:2-4).
The apostle Paul was later converted to faith in Christ.
He, too, received the Holy Spirit and began to fervently
preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ (Acts 9:1-22).
Evangelists like Philip were filled with and led by the
Holy Spirit (Acts 8:29). Those given the gift of teaching,
such as Apollos, could not have taught with such author-
ity without the anointing of the Holy Spirit (Acts 18:24-
28; see also 1 Corinthians 3:5-7). Those called to serve
the rapidly growing Body of Christ were full of the Spirit,
as in Stephen’s case (Acts 6:1-10). There are additional
passages in the New Testament on this subject as well
(i.e., Acts 4:13,33; 11:27,28; 21:10,11).
The Disciples of the Early Church
Those filled in the upper room on the Day of Pente-
cost were just the beginning of the many more believers
who were filled and anointed with the Holy Spirit
(Acts 4:31; 5:32; 13:52, etc).
Power For Evangelism
As the flame of the Gospel spread, so did mighty out-
pourings of the Holy Spirit. This fulfilled the words of
Jesus given just before His ascension: “But you shall re-
ceive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and
you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all
Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth”
(Acts 1:8).
Jesus’ listing of geographical locations was not just
poetic language. The Book of Acts reveals the fulfillment
of this promise of the Holy Spirit being poured out upon
all those who believe in Him and the beginning of the
evangelization of the world.
In Jerusalem… (fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost –
Acts Chapter 2). It appeared that this new group of Jew-
ish believers was going to stop their preaching at
Jerusalem. This could have endangered Christ’s purpose
and mission for the Gospel to be given to all peoples, at
all times, everywhere.
But persecution began almost immediately after the
Gospel began to be preached. God used this persecution to
compel and scatter the early Church outward from
Jerusalem, in order that they would fulfill the Father’s will
to bring the message of salvation to every person.
Then in Acts Chapter 8, we are introduced to a vicious
persecutor of the Church – Saul. These assaults seemed
like bad news, until we read in Scripture that “those who
were scattered went everywhere preaching the word
[Gospel]” (Acts 8:4). This would include both Judea and
Samaria (Acts 8:1-25).
The Outward March Of The Gospel
Note that the Holy Spirit was being poured out upon
those who received the Gospel (8:16,17). There were also
signs and wonders that attended the preaching of the
Gospel (8:6,13).
But an even greater work was about to unfold for the
early Church. God wanted the Gospel preached every-
where. Jesus commanded that believers “go into all the
world and preach the gospel to every creature”
(Mark 16:15). A similar word was recorded in Acts 1:8,
even “to the end of the earth”.
This outward march began when Philip encountered
an Ethiopian eunuch, who was soon converted to Christ
(Acts 8:26-40). This same Ethiopian is credited in Church
tradition to be the first one to introduce the Gospel to the
continent of Africa!
Soon afterward, Saul was radically changed by his en-
counter with Jesus (Acts 9:1-19), and he was called to be
the apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15). But the focus of
much of the Gospel preaching was still to the Jewish peo-
ple – until God did something radical!
We read on in Acts about Cornelius, a Roman
(Acts 10:1-48). Peter is sent to Cornelius to begin to share
the Gospel with the Gentiles. This was a difficult thing for
Peter to do as a Jew (Acts 10:9-16).
But as Peter was preaching, the Holy Spirit fell upon
Cornelius and his entire household – right in the middle of
Peter’s sermon! (Acts 10:44) Even so, the Jewish brethren
ACTS • 17
who were present still struggled with the fact that the
Gospel and the Holy Spirit were being given to the Gen-
tile people (Acts 10:45-48).
Finally, there was an important meeting of the apos-
tles in Jerusalem, with Peter being called upon to testify
(Acts 11:1-15). They finally came to understand and ac-
cept that which Jesus had clearly spoken to them: The
Gospel was to be preached to every person – even “to the
end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
God’s Plan Revealed
It is of critical importance to note something about the
Book of Acts. The Gospel of Jesus Christ was NOT sim-
ply a new religion or a new version of Jewish doctrines.
Everything that had transpired between mankind and God
since the Garden of Eden – all of Old Testament history –
had led up to this point in time.
God had a divine strategy that was set in motion after
man chose sin (Gen 3:15). That plan was salvation from
the death penalty of sin, by grace through faith (not of
works) in Jesus Christ. This was made possible only by
the sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection of Jesus.
We read about this provision of Christ in the Gospels
(Matthew, Mark, Luke and John).
But God’s purpose went beyond a new faith and re-
stored relationship with Him. God wanted (and wants) to
live within us, to give us the assurance and power we need
to live in victory and to fulfill His will in this life.
Therefore, in His infinite wisdom and love, God
poured out the Holy Spirit, who would dwell within every
believer (Joel 2:28,29). Christ did not come to bring a new
religion or theology. Rather, He came to fulfill all of what
God had promised for the salvation of mankind!
Yes, Christ’s sacrifice allows us to be restored again to
intimate fellowship with God. But God also intends for the
living power of the Almighty God to dwell within us in the
Person of the Holy Spirit. This is a power that the world
cannot ignore or explain away. They can mock, criticize or
Every tribe...
18 • ACTS
condemn, even as they did on the Day of Pentecost
(Acts 2:5-13). But they cannot stop the work and power of
the Holy Spirit through the yielded life of a believer!
What we see throughout the Book of Acts concerning
signs, wonders, miracles, salvations, healings, etc., is as
possible and relevant for us today as it was for the early
Church (Joel 2; Acts 2:33,38,39). We need the Holy
Spirit’s presence and power no less today than 2,000
years ago! Thank God that “Jesus Christ [and the Holy
Spirit] is the same yesterday, today, and forever”
(Heb 13:8).
All Believers In Christ At All Times
Peter, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, declares
that the promised gift of the indwelling Holy Spirit is “to
you and to your children [signifying future generations],
and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God
will call” (see Acts 2:33,38,39).
Those identified as “all who are afar off” would cer-
tainly include not only future generations, but also all the
Gentile tribes and every other tribe, tongue and race of the
earth (Eph 2:11-19; Gal 3:28; Col 3:11).
A Lifelong Relationship
The gift of the anointing presence of the Holy Spirit
comes to dwell in the heart of each Christ-follower. This
is a general anointing that every believer in Christ re-
ceives at salvation.
The apostle John gives us some insight into this gen-
eral anointing in his first epistle. John reminds the early
Christ-followers of an important fact: “But you have an
anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things”
(1 John 2:20).
From the structure of the Greek language in this origi-
nal text, it is clear that John was not referring to a religious
ceremony of being anointed with oil or another substance.
Rather, this anointing was from the “Holy One” who is
Jesus Christ the Son of God (John 6:69; Acts 3:14; 4:27).
...every generation
 In other words, “THE Anointed One” (Jesus Christ)
gives His followers a gift from Himself; that gift is the
Holy Spirit to live in us and abide with us (Matt 3:11;
Acts 1:5; John 14:16,17,26; 16:7). This anointing is for
every believer who puts their hope in Christ for salvation
by grace through faith.
Then John, by the Holy Spirit, continues: “But the
anointing which you have received from Him abides in
you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the
same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is
true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you
will abide in Him” (1 John 2:27).
This anointing is not a one-time experience; rather, it
is to be a lifelong and growing relationship with the Holy
Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who leads us into the truth,
teaches us all things and reminds us of what Jesus taught
(John 14:26). The Holy Spirit helps us to understand the
truth and glorify Jesus (John 16:13,14).
Obviously, John is not implying that teaching min-
istries are unnecessary (God gives us teachers – see Ro-
mans 12:7; Ephesians 4:11). But John is referring to the
revelation and understanding that the Person of the Holy
Spirit will bring to the individual as they respond to Him
in their life (1Cor 2:10-16; Eph 1:17,18).
So we see from the Word of God that there is an
anointing which every follower of Christ receives at the
time of salvation.
Pastor To Pastor: What the Holy Spirit illumi-
nates or reveals concerning the truth will always be
in agreement with what He has already revealed in
the written Word of God (John 16:13,14). There is NO
new revelation that will ever add to or disagree with
the Bible! ■
C. THE FUNCTION OF ANOINTING
While studying the work and moving of the Holy
Spirit, we must acknowledge that there are mysteries.
There is an element of the sovereignty of God in the sub-
ject of anointing that goes beyond our understanding
(John 3:8). Our only response to God’s sovereignty must
always be to simply and wholeheartedly surrender to His
Lordship and will.
God in His wisdom has chosen to leave an element of
mystery in His ways, requiring us to live by faith
(2Cor 5:7; Heb 11:6). There is much in this life that we
see and understand only “in part” (1Cor 13:12). Our pos-
ture toward the Lord must always be one of trust, obedi-
ence and submission to the entirety of His Word.
Practical Principles Of The Anointing
As we continue in this study, let us once again review
the definition of anointing:
Anointing is the Person and presence of the Holy
Spirit, bringing with His presence all of the necessary
power, gifts and authority that are needed to fulfill the
Father’s will at a given moment of ministry or
assignment.
With this understanding clearly in mind, let us look at
some principles about how the anointing of the Holy Spirit
functions.
1. Anointing is directly related to an individual’s
calling to fulfill a God-given ministry assignment.
In other words, when God gives someone a ministry
assignment or call, He also makes available all the neces-
sary power, authority, gifting, revelation, insight, etc., that
is needed to fulfill that assignment!
Hallelujah!
When God commands or leads you to perform His
will, all that you need to successfully fulfill His will is
available to you by the power and anointing of the Holy
Spirit. What God commands a person to do, He gives
them the divine ability to do!
Of course, there is always much study, learning and
personal transformation that should be happening along
the way. As we apply ourselves – growing in our abilities,
gifts and knowledge of the Word – then God will release
even more.
This principle of being faithful with what we have and
God releasing more (Luke 16:10a; 19:17) is an essential
principle for growing in God’s anointing.
Operating In The Anointing
God desires to anoint us to fulfill His will and call.
We read of a similar principle at work in Paul’s presenta-
tion about faith.
Romans 12:3: “God has dealt to each one a measure
of faith.” This measure of faith (as with anointing) is a
divine enablement given in proportion to the gift that He
has given us.
“Having then gifts differing according to the grace that
is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy
in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our
ministering; he who teaches, in teaching” (Rom 12:6,7).
Paul states the same principle a bit differently in his
letter to the Ephesians: “But to each one of us grace was
given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Eph 4:7).
In other words, this measured gift of divine enable-
ment is directly related to being able to operate in the gift
that God has assigned to an individual for the purpose of
ministry.
Pastor To Pastor: The context for Ephesians 4:7
relates directly to the spiritual gifts mentioned a few
verses later in Ephesians 4:11. This verse (4:7) does
NOT pertain to a measure of grace regarding salva-
tion, as some wrongly teach. God’s grace for salva-
tion by faith is given equally to ALL people, for He
desires that none should perish and that all should
be saved (Acts 2:21; 17:30,31; Rom 3:22,23; 11:32;
1Tim 2:4; 4:10; Titus 2:11; 2Pet 3:9). God does de-
sire that all receive His free gift of salvation through
faith in Christ (Eph 2:8). Sadly, however, many have
rejected and will continue to reject this offer – and
even worse, millions of people today have never
even heard the Gospel message of salvation through
Jesus Christ. ■
ACTS • 19

Pastor To Pastor: Though this is not the time for
a full study of spiritual gifts, let me give you one im-
portant principle regarding spiritual gifts.
All spiritual gifts – whether they be manifestation
gifts (1Cor 12:1-11), motivational gifts (Rom 12:3-8)
or ministry gifts (Eph 4:11) – are sovereignly as-
signed by God. It is not for us to pick and choose
what gift we want or think is most needed. God as-
signs His gifts according to His unlimited knowledge
and perfect holiness (see 1 Corinthians 12:11).
Though every believer has ministry purpose in the
Body of Christ, and in the world we live in, there is a
wide variety of callings and gifts. With each, God gives
the necessary divine power, faith, grace and anointing
to fulfill His will and purpose.
Though we must never attempt to control or ma-
nipulate the anointing (the Holy Spirit), we can grow
in anointing. As we are faithful with what God gives to
us, He releases more (Matt 25:21). We can also learn
to better operate in the anointing of the Holy Spirit, in
order to be more fruitful in ministry and aligned with
God’s will. [This is discussed further in Part III, Sec-
tion B, “Growing In The Anointing”.] ■
“Transferring” The Anointing
A certain teaching contends that a person who is
anointed and powerful in ministry can lay hands upon an-
other person and give them a “portion of their anointing”
– even a double portion! This has been called a “transfer
of anointing”, and is loosely based upon the events in
Scripture surrounding Elijah and his successor, Elisha (see
1 Kings 19:16,19; 2 Kings 2:1-13).
However, the scriptural text does not support this
teaching. Elijah did throw his mantle (his shawl) upon El-
isha (1Ki 19:19). But it was only a symbolic confirmation
of what the Lord had already spoken regarding Elisha’s
divine call to be Elijah’s successor (1Ki 19:16). In this
event, Elijah did not give the call to Elisha, nor could he
give him the anointing to fulfill it. This was God’s doing.
Elijah was simply obedient to God’s Word, and commu-
nicated what God had told him to say to Elisha
(1Ki 19:19).
Elisha clearly recognized that he did not have the abil-
ity to carry on the prophetic ministry of Elijah as God had
called him. Elisha knew he needed the power of God
(anointing), indirectly referenced in Scripture as the spirit
of Elijah (2Ki 2:9,15). So Elisha asked Elijah for a “dou-
ble portion” of his spirit (2Ki 2:10).
But as Elijah was the anointed prophet of God, his
only response to Elisha’s request for a double portion was
a prophetic utterance: “You have asked a hard thing. Nev-
ertheless, if you see me when I am taken from you, it shall
be so for you; but if not, it shall not be so” (2Ki 2:10).
It is clear when reading this portion of Scripture that
Elijah knew he could not give anything spiritual to Elisha.
He could affirm God’s call upon Elisha, but he could not
anoint him to fulfill it.
Obviously, God (in His sovereignty) did allow Elisha
20 • ACTS
to see Elijah being taken into Heaven. Thus Elisha picked
up Elijah’s mantle according to the will of God, as was
prophesied. From that point on, God’s anointing was
clearly evident in Elisha’s ministry (2Ki 2:15).
The Giver of callings, gifts and anointing is God Him-
self, for only God can give the Holy Spirit! We are not in
control of God or His Spirit; we cannot decide who will be
anointed, or how much anointing they will receive. Nei-
ther are we in charge of the gifts and callings of God. If
God has anointed us for ministry, we cannot choose to
give that same anointing to someone else.
God Calls – We Affirm
Even Moses, one of the greatest servants of God,
could not give to others the anointing that God had given
him. However, the Lord Himself did take of the anoint-
ing which He had placed upon Moses and the Lord gave
it to the elders (Num 11:16-17).
Moses was commanded by God to give some of his
authority to Joshua (Num 27:20) and to commission him
(27:23). But that was after God had already appointed
Joshua as Moses’ successor (27:18). Also, Joshua was
present when the Lord anointed the elders (11:16,17,28),
which is why Joshua was described as one “in whom is
the Spirit” as a leader among the Israelites (27:18).
It was the Lord who called and anointed Joshua.
Moses affirmed Joshua’s calling, and commissioned him
to carry on after he departed.
It is the Holy Spirit who gave the prophetic gift and
anointing to Elijah and then to Elisha, along with signs
and wonders (see also Numbers 11:25-29; 1 Samuel
10:6,10; 1 Kings 18:46).
Pastor To Pastor: It is not wrong to desire from
God a “double portion” of His Spirit. Nor is it wrong to
ask for a particular gift in order to do ministry. We
should ask; then we must trust God for what He will
give to us, and for when He will give it.
But also note that Elisha was obedient to fulfill all
that God had called Him to do – both in response to
the original call, and in preparation to receive God’s
anointing (1Ki 19:20,21; 2Ki 2:1-11). God’s call and
anointing will not automatically be fulfilled in our
lives. Rather, our obedience, our submission and our
full cooperation are required every step of the way –
during both the preparation for, and the fulfillment of,
the ministry assignment. ■
An Impartation
The concept of one individual “transferring” his
anointing to another is not correct. However, the Scrip-
tures do provide us with numerous examples of what is
called an impartation. This is most associated with the
laying on of hands (Heb 6:2) and with prayer, as directed
by the Holy Spirit. (See Acts 13:1-3; 1 Timothy 4:14;
2 Timothy 1:6.)
I am aware of powerful men and women of God who
pray for others to receive an impartation from the Holy
Spirit. We have already learned that they cannot give their
gift or anointing to someone else. However, it does seem
as if something of what God is doing by His Spirit through
a ministry, or during a special season where God is mov-
ing in a pronounced and sovereign way, can be stirred
within, or imparted to, others. At times, those who have
been prayed for in such a meeting seem to move in a
greater level of both authority and the Holy Spirit’s power
after being prayed for.
I personally have received powerful impartations of
the Holy Spirit. These events changed my personal life as
well as my direction in ministry after having been prayed
for. But this is the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit bring-
ing a fresh impartation of anointing in my life, not the
works of men.
Impartation That Confirms
The clearest biblical example of this type of imparta-
tion is found in the developing ministry of Timothy.
Paul reminds Timothy of a moment early in his min-
istry when Paul and the elders of the churches in Iconium
and Lystra had laid their hands on Timothy and prayed for
him: “Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was
given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands
of the eldership” (1Tim 4:14).
This same event is referenced again in Paul’s second
letter to Timothy: “Therefore I remind you to stir up the
gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my
hands. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of
power and of love and of a sound mind” (2Tim 1:6,7; see
also 1 Timothy 1:18).
The original word used for “gift” in this passage is
charisma. This suggests that a manifestation of the Holy
Spirit was bestowed upon Timothy when Paul and the eld-
ers prayed for him.
Commissioned for the
Lord's service.
Paul was not the author of Timothy’s gift or calling.
Rather, as Paul and the elders laid hands on Timothy and
prayed for him, the Holy Spirit revealed God’s will for
Timothy and spoke prophetically through them to con-
firm God’s call and desire for Timothy’s life. As they
commissioned Timothy for the Lord’s service, it was the
Holy Spirit who anointed Timothy to fulfill his call from
God.
Pastor To Pastor
It is through these occasions of prayer and the
laying on of hands that the Holy Spirit will often re-
veal something of the will and purposes of God. His
will can be revealed as a picture in the mind, a
prophetic word, a confirming scripture, or an impres-
sion of what the Holy Spirit desires regarding an in-
dividual or their situation.
At these times, we must wait patiently upon the
Lord and listen. However, if we are not hearing some-
thing specific from the Lord, we should not speak.
The value of our role as a pastor comes from
being faithful and obedient to God and His Word. We
may be tempted to want to please others, or feel
pressured to be a “spiritual” leader who has a word
for people. This is what the Bible calls “the fear of
man”. It is a trap that can lead to much worse com-
promise and fleshly responses (Prov 29:25).
We are called to be faithful: to God, to His Word,
and to the leading of the Holy Spirit. If you are pray-
ing for someone, and the Lord does not speak to you
concerning them, that is perfectly fine. The Lord may
want to speak to them directly, or at another time, or
in another way. If God is silent, we should be silent.
If God speaks to us concerning someone else, we
must be faithful and careful to say only what God is
saying or revealing – no more and no less.
It is never our role to tell someone what to do,
where to go, etc. We simply submit to the individual
what it is that we are sensing from the Holy Spirit.
Most often, it should confirm something to them that
the Lord has already placed in their heart. The mat-
ter is then between them and God to fulfill.
Finally, this important note: A prophetic word from
the Lord will ALWAYS agree with what God has al-
ready revealed to us through the Bible, His holy writ-
ten Word! Everything we do in life must conform to
and agree with the Word of God, and the principles
revealed therein. ■
Following The Holy Spirit’s Leading
Other examples of impartation can be seen in
Acts 6:1-7 and 13:1-3. These events in the early Church
were not just symbolic ceremonies. In these accounts,
leaders in the Body of Christ sought the leading of the
Holy Spirit and followed it specifically. Then with sure
faith, they prayed in obedience to that leading. In re-
sponse, God equipped, blessed and anointed those who
were prayed for to fulfill that which He had appointed for
them.
ACTS • 21
 The critical factor is this: The leading of the Holy
Spirit is for revealing the express purpose and will of
God. Jesus Himself acknowledged that His earthly min-
istry was possible only because He was doing the will of
God the Father (John 5:19,30; 6:38; 8:29). We can and
must do no less!
As we follow the leading of God the Spirit, He will
use us to fulfill His will. A part of that may be to confirm
His call in others; and then for us to pray for them to be
anointed and gifted for all that God has purposed for
them, for His glory and the edification of His Body
(Eph 4:12-16).
Greater Release
At many of the World MAP pastors’ seminars, I have
taught on the subject of anointing or about the baptism of
the Holy Spirit. At these conferences, innumerable pas-
tors have received a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit; others
were baptized in the Holy Spirit for the first time. I per-
sonally gave them nothing, other than teaching from the
Scriptures on these subjects. I may have prayed for them,
but it is the Holy Spirit who touched them and filled them
(Luke 3:16; John 16:7) – because they hungered for more
of Him!
We receive many, many reports from these same pas-
tors about dramatic changes in their ministries. They see
an increase in signs, wonders and miracles in their meet-
ings; they have a fresh zeal for God and for evangelism;
they lead many into salvation or the baptism of the Holy
Spirit.
What has happened?
For one thing, there has been teaching from the Word
of God, which brings illumination on a certain subject.
The person hearing the teaching then makes a decision to
receive by faith what they have learned – and to act upon
it!
But there is more that takes place. The Holy Spirit
is present and moving in a unique way, bearing witness
to the truth of the Word of God that has just been pre-
sented. Thus, when people respond with an open heart
and faith – and, in their hunger for God, ask to receive
all that He has provided for them – He responds to
their hunger in a profound way (Matt 5:6; John 6:35).
They do receive! More of God’s anointing for ministry is
released to them.
Please understand that God is not limited to a confer-
ence site or event. God the Spirit is everywhere present,
and will respond to those who seek Him with all of their
heart (Jer 29:12,13).
God will meet you wherever you are, as you seek
wholeheartedly for Him. Hallelujah!
I want to say again that no one fully understands
how God’s Spirit can and will move and work. Yet we do
know that God by His Spirit will respond to our hunger for
Him.
The Holy Spirit freshly fills people in response to
prayer (Luke 11:9-13). When their faith is stirred, they
begin to ask in faith believing from that point forward
(Heb 11:6).
22 • ACTS
The Best Requests
As we have learned, the apostles laid hands on one
another and upon other workers, praying for them and
commissioning them for ministry (Acts 13:2,3; 6:1-6).
God directed them to do this, so something necessary and
dynamic was taking place.
We may not understand all of the Holy Spirit’s ways.
But we know this: As the Holy Spirit leads us to pray for
others – and as we allow other men and women of God to
pray for us – God’s anointing, gifts, wisdom and more are
imparted.
Though we cannot decide who receives God’s gifts
and anointing, we can certainly pray for others to be pow-
erful instruments and to be used effectively in God’s serv-
ice by the power of the Holy Spirit! (2Tim 1:6,7)
We must always submit to and embrace God’s sover-
eign will for our lives in these matters. Perhaps the best re-
quests for us to make of God are: “What are the gifts, and
Your assignment, that You have for me? How have You
called me to use them? What do You want to give me in
order for me to fulfill Your will?”
God has specific assignments, callings and ministry
purpose for every man and woman. Along with those, He
will give us abundantly “above all that we ask or think
according to the power [the Holy Spirit] that works in us”
(Eph 3:20) to enable us to fulfill His will as we yield our
lives and desires fully to Him.
2. Anointing is not designed to be contained, pos-
sessed, or kept to ourselves.
The basic purpose of anointing is to enable us to be ef-
fective in ministry or in our assignment. This includes
freely giving away in ministry to others what has been
given to us by the Holy Spirit.
Jesus Himself, at the beginning of His ministry, said:
“The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, because He has
anointed Me…” (Luke 4:16-21).
You will note as you read these verses that Jesus then
listed a number of things He was specifically anointed to
do for others.
Anointing is a sacred privilege. We should not desire
it in order to be perceived as more spiritual or better than
someone else. Anointing is an equipping from the Holy
Spirit, given to make us more fruitful and effective in min-
istry and in our calling. This means that we will actually
become better servants to all (John 13:12-17). A lifestyle
and attitude of giving, at every level and dimension of life,
is the Bible’s command to every believer (Matt 10:8;
Luke 6:38; Acts 20:35).
God desires His people to continually give of their re-
source and abilities to benefit others. Without a lifestyle of
giving, we will not be healthy spiritually, and the Body of
Christ will also be lacking. God has given us a profound
example in the geography of Israel that will help to illus-
trate this principle.
Life Or Death
Israel has two large bodies of water. One is the Sea
of Galilee, the other is the Dead Sea. The Sea of Galilee
is a beautiful, fresh-water lake that is full of life. The
Dead Sea is exactly like its name. It is so filled with salt
and minerals that it cannot support life. The water in the
Dead Sea is undrinkable, and so harsh that prolonged ex-
posure to it can burn your skin, cause blindness or even
kill you!
The Sea of Galilee is fed by fresh water flowing into
it from brooks and streams. At the lowest end, this fresh
water then flows out into the River Jordan, which then
flows directly into the Dead Sea. How is it possible, then,
for the life-giving fresh water from the Sea of Galilee to
become the toxic and lifeless Dead Sea?
There is one important difference between these two
seas: Good, healthy water flows into both, but flows out
only from the Sea of Galilee. The Dead Sea has no outlet.
The water in the Dead Sea just sits and evaporates, leav-
ing behind an ever-increasing buildup of salt and miner-
als. The water becomes poisonous and lifeless.
In the same way, the anointing of the Holy Spirit in the
minister’s life is intended to produce the life of Jesus in
others. It will increase the life of God within us, and then
flow through us to others. We are to continually give away
to others through empowered, life-giving ministry and
service.
As we pray for others, preach, teach the Word and
share words of edification under the Holy Spirit’s anoint-
ing, we are life-giving ministers who will bless and edify
others. If we become selfish with our time or efforts – and
choose to not provide a continual “flow” of the life of the
Holy Spirit within us in ministry and service to others –
the anointing of the Holy Spirit will stagnate within us.
We are intended to continually and freshly receive from
the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18,19), and then give away the “liv-
ing waters” that we receive through ministry and service
to others (John 7:37-39).
You can read about this principle in Matthew 25:14-
30. What happened to the servant who did nothing with
the gifts and anointing God had given him?
3. Anointing can be limited or stopped.
We have learned that the anointing is the Person and
presence of God the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is not a dis-
embodied or impersonal force. The Holy Spirit is the Per-
son of God.
Scripture reveals that the Holy Spirit can be “grieved”
(Eph 4:30). This means to be made sorrowful, become in-
jured or become distressed. The Holy Spirit can also be
“quenched” (1Thess 5:19). This word contains the idea
of being suppressed or stifled, like a fire being dampened
with water.
a. Quenching The Holy Spirit. How do we quench
the Holy Spirit? This most often happens when people are
resistant to, or apathetic about, the working and moving of
the Holy Spirit. If people are unwilling to respond to the
Holy Spirit’s promptings or desires to move among them,
they can stop (quench) His work in their midst.
On the other hand, the Holy Spirit can also be
quenched when our human efforts or enthusiasm replace
the actual work of the Holy Spirit. There are churches
where people would much rather go through their own rit-
uals and forms each week, with no desire to welcome the
fresh work of the Holy Spirit into their services. When this
happens, He is not free to work and move; thus the Spirit
is “quenched”.
There are other places where people want to “act” like
the Holy Spirit is present. They may jump around, shout,
shake, or other such things. It is true that when the power
of the Holy Spirit is at work, there are sometimes physi-
cal manifestations.
But if this is done just as a form, and is not in response
to a genuine work of the Holy Spirit, this behavior can
also quench the actual work that the Holy Spirit desires to
do at that moment.
Any time people choose to substitute a form for the
actual presence and working of the Holy Spirit, He is not
free to move as He desires. Thus, He is quenched.
What do all of these examples have in common? They
all reveal man’s attempt to control or imitate God’s work.
People may decide that they are comfortable with a certain
form or style that they want to adopt. Every week, it is the
same schedule or form in their services.
Unfortunately, this can prevent the Holy Spirit from
actually working in their services to minister His life,
power, healing and anointing to the people. There is no
room or invitation for Him to come and work. In these in-
stances, the will of man opposes the desire of the Holy
Spirit – and the Holy Spirit is “quenched” or not free to
work.
The Bible specifically addresses the efforts of human
flesh replacing the power and presence of the Holy Spirit:
“‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the
LORD of hosts” (Zech 4:6).
Pastor To Pastor: Church leader, even your own
style or form can limit the work of the Holy Spirit. Each
time a group of believers gathers, we must always be
sensitive to what the Holy Spirit wants to do.
He may desire to move in a gentle, quiet way and
minister healing. The Holy Spirit may come in power
and set captives free! He may usher in a sense of tri-
umphant celebration during worship, to build the faith
and expectancy of the believers. Or He may bring
great conviction, and with it a desire for repentance,
to those present for their failures before God.
The point is, we should always welcome and
allow time for the work of the Holy Spirit in our serv-
ices. We need to pray, listen and obey the prompt-
ings and prophetic words that may come. Then our
“style” of ministry or preaching should align with what
the Holy Spirit is doing at that moment. For instance,
if we are exuberant or yelling when the Holy Spirit
wants to minister peace or “stillness” (Ps 46:10), we
will quench His work at that moment. If we ignore a
mood of celebration that is rising in worship, we may
stop a victorious breakthrough among the people. We
may even need to pause during worship, and allow
everyone present to wait upon the Lord to hear from
Him personally. ...Continued on the next page...
ACTS • 23

Moving With The Holy Spirit
It is vitally important that, as church leaders, we
develop discernment and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit.
This is best done through extended prayer times in
the days before believers will gather. These prayer
times should not involve just asking God to bless
what you already have planned. This is an opportu-
nity to submit your heart and plans to God, and wait
upon Him to receive a sense of what HE desires to
do! Take time during the meeting as well to wait, lis-
ten and discern.
Decide to be a person who is committed to what-
ever God wants to do. Remember, this is His Church
and these are His people. You are there to steward
them, care for them and disciple them. But most im-
portantly, your role is to point people to God and
teach them how to respond to His Spirit in everything!
The Holy Spirit can perform a work of deliverance,
growth or healing in a person very quickly during a
service. This type of work might otherwise take
months, or may never happen at all, without the Holy
Spirit’s ministry to them at that moment. So let us
move with the Holy Spirit, and cooperate with His
work every time we gather! ■
b. Grieving The Holy Spirit. The Scriptures also
speak of grieving the Holy Spirit (Eph 4:30). To “grieve”
means to make sad or sorrowful. The Holy Spirit can be
made sorrowful by anything that we allow or harbor in
our hearts that is unlike Jesus.
We can have attitudes, habits, thoughts, words or ac-
tions – whatever is not Christ-like will grieve the Holy
Spirit.
“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom
you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitter-
ness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away
from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, ten-
derhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ
forgave you” (Eph 4:30-32).
When we are prepared
from the Word of God, we can
fully expect the Holy Spirit’s
anointing to empower the
preaching of the true Word of
God. We can expect the Holy
Spirit to use us as an instrument
in that moment of ministry, and
also expect His power in signs
and wonders to follow.
24 • ACTS
Paul’s exhortation to the Ephesian Christians helps
them to understand that they are the temple of the Holy
Spirit, both individually (1Cor 6:19) and corporately
(1Cor 3:9-17) as the Body of Christ.
Because the Spirit of God lives in us, we can have in-
timate relationship with Him. The Holy Spirit can be
grieved because He loves us (Rom 5:5). Let us depart
from any thought or deed that may cause grief and sorrow
to the Spirit of God living within us.
The Spirit And The Word
There may be leaders who would say they welcome
the work of the Holy Spirit in their midst. But they may
become presumptuous by neglecting the diligent study of
God’s Word and the preparation necessary to teach and
disciple others in the ways of the Lord. They will just “let
the Holy Spirit do the work”. This mindset is wrong, and
can lead to serious problems in a leader’s life and within
the church. This attitude can become an excuse for lazi-
ness or lack of discipline, which God will not bless.
The Bible speaks very clearly to leaders about this
issue. “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a
worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing
the word of truth” (2Tim 2:15,16).
As leaders, we must prepare our hearts with much
prayer, and fill our minds with the Word of God. We must
diligently study the Scriptures and prepare teachings from
the Word of God that will help those we lead to become
mature disciples of Jesus Christ. We must never teach
error, false doctrines or fleshly ideas due to a lack of study
and familiarity with the truth of God’s Word. We will be
judged on what we teach to others (Jas 3:1).
When we are prepared from the Word of God, we can
fully expect the Holy Spirit’s anointing to empower the
preaching of the true Word of God. We can expect the
Holy Spirit to use us as an instrument in that moment of
ministry, and also expect His power in signs and wonders
to follow.
But if we are not diligent to study the Bible and pray,
we will be far more likely to minister out of our own ideas
or fleshly inclinations. How can the Holy Spirit anoint us
when we are not presenting the Word of God or fully rep-
resenting Christ in our lives and ministries?
Spontaneous Anointing
The Bible does teach that there are times when the
Holy Spirit can fill our mouths with the right words: “But
when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what
you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour
what you should speak” (Matt 10:19; see also Mark 13:11
and Luke 12:11,12). However, these verses refer to situa-
tions of persecution or unusual circumstance, not to a nor-
mal weekly meeting of your flock! So this Scripture
reference should never be used as an excuse to not dili-
gently study God’s Word and prepare sound teachings.
There may be times when we are called upon unex-
pectedly to preach, pray or minister. I believe that in those
moments there comes a spontaneous anointing (help)
from the Holy Spirit. Remember, He is the One who de-
sires to make Jesus known, and to draw people to salva- of what He reveals to us through His Word about effective
tion through Christ! He will use us in any situation to do ministry, and do it with all our might!
that. But the more prepared we are in the Word of God
and prayer, the better prepared we will be for God to use Pastor To Pastor: It is tempting for church lead-
us effectively. ers whom God anoints – especially those whom God
God requires His leaders to be diligent in and faithful is greatly using – to think that the basic commands
to His Word. This is for the leader’s personal benefit, as of Scripture somehow no longer apply to them. They
well as for the benefit of those whom they lead. A daily forget that all that they do is done before the eyes of
habit of Bible study and prayer builds within us a “spiri- a holy God (Lev 10:3).
tual reservoir” from which the Holy Spirit can draw. The We have all heard about men and women whom
Holy Spirit then adds His power, wisdom and divine in- God is greatly using who then fall into moral failure,
sight to what we say. This combination can change the life financial improprieties, and other grievous offenses
of the hearer! and sins. These failures rarely come upon them in a
The Word of God exhorts us to always be prepared single moment. They usually begin with “small” com-
for the Holy Spirit to use us in any situation (2Tim 4:2; promises and excuses, leading to disobedience to the
1Pet 3:15). This is accomplished only through diligent Word and complete failure (Jas 1:14,15).
study of God’s Word and prayer! We must never forget that God is holy, and He
has called us to be holy as well (Lev 11:44;
4. Anointing can be abused or misused. 1Pet 1:16). God’s Word, His commands, His precepts
There are several examples in Scripture of men and are for every believer in, and follower of, Christ –
women who abused or misused the power of the Holy especially His called and anointed leaders! ■
Spirit. When they did, their misbehavior brought God’s
judgment and correction. c. Numbers 11:16-30 – the Elders. The Bible records
a. Judges Chapters 13-16 – Samson. God’s gift to an event in Israel’s wanderings when God placed His
Samson was great physical strength. When the Holy Spirit Spirit upon 70 elders and they prophesied (v.25). There
came upon him (Judg 13:24,25; 14:6,19; 15:14), Samson were two men who had not gathered with the others at the
would perform great acts against the Philistines who op- Tabernacle, but had remained in the camp. The Spirit
pressed Israel. However, even though Samson had a great came upon them as well, and they began to prophesy
and unusual gifting, his moral weakness led to his down- (v.26).
fall and cut short his life and service to Israel (see Judges
Chapter 16).
Samson thought that he could live his life on his own
terms, and still expect God to anoint him. This was gross
presumption, and led to his failure as a servant of God.
Though he later repented and God used him once more,
Samson’s life and ministry likely fulfilled far less than
God intended.
[We will look more closely at how character has a di-
rect impact upon the church leader’s anointing in Section
III.B.1., “Character And Anointing”.]
b. Leviticus 10:1-3 – Nadab and Abihu. These two
sons of Aaron (the High Priest) were anointed to serve as
priests to the people of Israel. The Bible reveals that they
offered “profane” (strange or foreign) fire before the
Lord, in a way “which He had not commanded them”
(Lev 10:1). This was done in disobedience to God’s prior
command (Ex 30:9).
God had set precise times and methods for the sacri-
fices and offerings of the priests. Obedience to the Lord
and His ways is always of utmost priority. The fact that
Nadab and Abihu were anointed as priests did not excuse
their disobedience. God’s judgment was swift and severe
upon these two sons of Aaron whose service for God was Obedience to the Lord:
done on their own terms (Lev 10:2). our utmost priority.
As church leaders, we must always obey both the
leading of the Holy Spirit and the principles and com- Joshua, who at that time was Moses’ assistant, asked
mands of God’s Word. We must not fall into the trap of that these two men be stopped and forbidden to prophecy
thinking we can pick and choose how we want to follow (v.28). But Moses rebuked Joshua, and expressed his
God and minister in His Church. We must embrace ALL prophetic desire that all of the Lord’s people would have
ACTS • 25
the Holy Spirit upon them (v.29; see also Joel 2:28,29;
Acts 2:14-21).
Joshua was likely well-intended, concerned that the
two men were prophesying out of order since they were
not present with the other elders. But Joshua was mistaken
in thinking it was his responsibility to decide when and
through whom God would speak.
Pastor To Pastor: When leaders attempt to exert
their own control over or restrict the working of the
Holy Spirit, they are in error. Often, we have well-mo-
tivated desires to have “all things be done decently
and in order” (1Cor 14:40). But our ways are not
God’s ways (Isa 55:8,9). Our human standards or
ideas about what we are comfortable with may not
have anything to do with what God desires to do in a
given moment.
God can move in unusual ways, through unlikely
sources, and by unusual methods. Consider Balaam’s
donkey (Num 22:22-40), or Jesus using dirt and spit
when healing a blind man (John 9:1-6).
We are living in days of great Harvest and the
outpouring of God’s Spirit. Extraordinary events, mir-
acles, prophetic utterances and other manifestations
of God’s Spirit are increasing around the world. We
must use discernment, yes, and not just accept or be-
lieve everything being done in God’s name (Matt
7:21-23). But we must also learn to cooperate and
move with the Holy Spirit in any given moment.
We are not the ones who decide when, how and
through whom the Holy Spirit may work. The vessel
whom God uses is certainly not going to be perfect.
None of us is, but we are the ones through whom
God has decided to work!
However, it must be noted that the Scriptures also
make it clear to not be involved with those who are liv-
ing in sin or teaching error (1Tim 6:3-5; 2Tim 3:1-5).
We must also be careful to correctly judge prophecy
(1Cor 14:29). We should also not use the external
standards of the world to evaluate or know a brother
or sister (2Cor 5:16,17).
As pastors, in our desire to lead, we can be
tempted to try and take control. We are then in dan-
ger of interfering with, or completely stopping, the
work of the Holy Spirit in our midst (as Joshua almost
did).
We should take time to disciple those we serve
as to when and how to prophesy. But we must then
be willing to let the Holy Spirit work through them as
they learn and grow.
Remember, our role as pastors is to lead people
to grow as disciples. This means, among other things,
that we teach them – and release them – to receive
from and respond to the leading of the Holy Spirit. ■
d. Acts 5:1-11; 8:9-24 – Ananias & Sapphira;
Simon the Sorcerer. The Book of Acts records two sep-
arate attempts in the early Church to misuse the power of
the Holy Spirit.
26 • ACTS
1) The first involved Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-
11). They were attempting to deceive the leadership of the
early Church regarding the sale of their property. But
when Peter confronted them, he cited their offense as a
“lie to the Holy Spirit” (v.3).
It is apparent from the text that the issue was not
about the amount of money they gave (v.4). Rather, they
were judged for their hypocrisy. God was confronting the
kind of hypocrisy and religious spirit that marked the
Scribes and Pharisees (Matt 23:1-36; 6:1-6; Mark 12:38-
40; etc.).
Those who follow Christ are to have a righteousness
that exceeds that of the Pharisees (Matt 5:20). It is to be a
righteousness of the heart, not an outward form or simply
an appearance of righteousness. It also must be said that
if a person does have that inward righteousness, it will re-
veal itself in outward behavior that is also truly righteous
(Matt 23:25,26).
It seems Ananias and Sapphira were using the unique
and profound move of the Holy Spirit in the early Church
for their personal gain. They were giving the appearance
of cooperating with the work, but obviously had a selfish
and concealed motive.
Their actions reveal that they did not respect the
authority of the apostles whom God had appointed as
leaders – and ultimately did not respect or honor the Holy
Spirit from whom the apostles had received their
authority.
God saw the hearts of Ananias and Sapphira, and
brought swift and severe judgment upon them
(Acts 5:5,9,10).
God’s desire is for a pure and holy Church (Eph 5:27).
To accomplish this, the Lord of the Church works un-
ceasingly to transform and purify His Bride (Eph 5:26,27).
He loves us enough to discipline and chastise us
(1Pet 4:17; Heb 12:3-11).
2) The second instance of an attempt to misuse the
anointing of the Holy Spirit in the early Church is found
in Acts 8:9-24. Here we encounter Simon the sorcerer,
who was newly converted to Christ (v.13). As Simon is
following Philip, he is amazed at the great and miraculous
things he sees the Holy Spirit doing!
When Simon witnessed the apostles ministering to
others in the power of the Holy Spirit, he coveted that
power for himself. In his immature and still-worldly think-
ing, Simon offered to pay the apostles money in order to
get that power (vs.18,19).
Peter, by the power of the Holy Spirit, discerned the
motives of Simon’s heart:
“For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and
bound by iniquity” (v.23). It was obvious that Simon had
a selfish motive. His heart was bound in sin, and he did not
desire the Holy Spirit in order to glorify God and to serve
others.
“Bitterness” in this context is like a competitive jeal-
ously or envy (Jas 3:14). Simon wanted to be important
and impressive to others, perhaps like he was when he was
a sorcerer (Acts 8:9-11). He wanted God’s power for his
own personal gain.

Pastor To Pastor: Even today, we encounter
leaders who are truly gifted, anointed and being used
by God. But sadly, they can begin to think more highly
of themselves than they ought to think. They begin to
act as if the power is from them, and not from a merci-
ful God (2Cor 4:5-7). They use the ministry to make
their own name great, to gain wealth, or to influence
others to follow them.
Most leaders do not start out this way. Good lead-
ers hunger to see God move and for God to receive
the glory when people’s lives are transformed by His
power. But if we are not cautious and diligent to watch
over our hearts (Prov 4:23), we can be led astray.
The devil cannot deny, thwart, attack or over-
come the power of God (John 1:5). So instead, Satan
will attempt to deceive and poison the heart of a
leader (2Cor 2:11; 11:13-15), to make him a vessel
who is serving himself and no longer serving God and
His purposes. ■
Holding Fast In Faithfulness
In the case of Ananias and Sapphira, and with Simon,
we are provided with cautionary and sobering lessons. We
must be mindful that Satan has the power to influence our
thoughts and actions if we allow this (Acts 5:3). We must
give him no place (Eph 4:27).
However, when leaders do fail – choosing sin over
righteousness – it is a very serious problem. First, because
our God is holy, sin violates our relationship with God.
All followers of Christ have been called and commanded
to personal holiness and moral purity (1Pet 1:13-19).
Second, we are called to be leaders who are entrusted
with the care of God’s people. When we give way to sin,
we break that trust and become a bad example to the peo-
ple whom we lead. We also leave the sheep vulnerable to
hell’s attacks (1Pet 5:2-4; Acts 20:28-30; Heb 13:7,17;
Jas 3:1). If Satan can destroy a leader, the sheep will be
scattered and vulnerable to downfall (Mark 14:27).
Our failures also hurt our families and our reputations.
We hurt the family of God as well, and damage the repu-
tations of other faithful church leaders who are then
viewed with mistrust and suspicion (see Paul’s instruc-
tions about choosing elders in 1 Timothy 3:1-7). Satan tar-
gets church leaders very specifically with his schemes of
destruction. But remember, he cannot cause you to sin
unless you choose to follow his temptations. Resist the
devil, and he must flee from you (Jas 4:7).
Your leadership role and anointing is a privilege; it is
also a serious and essential responsibility. The Bible gives
us many exhortations about remaining faithful and finish-
ing well (Matt 24:13; Phil 3:17,18; 2Tim 4:6-8). We are to
hold fast to our hope and faith in Christ to the end, being
examples to the flock of faithfulness, for Jesus’ sake and
glory (1Pet 5:2,3).
D. OLD TESTAMENT
FORETYPES OF ANOINTING
As we continue our study, let us examine some Old
Testament foretypes of anointing. As referenced earlier,
the Old Testament was given for our instruction and ex-
ample (Rom 15:4; 1Cor 10:11). It will help us to gain a
fuller picture of anointing as a promise given that was ini-
tially fulfilled at the beginning of the New Testament
Church age (see Acts Chapter 2).
1. Symbolic Foretypes
There are a number of symbolic foretypes in the Old
Testament of the Person and work of the Holy Spirit.
a. Fire - In the Tabernacle and on the altar of incense,
the burnt offerings had a continuously burning flame that
was originally started by God (Lev 9:24; 2Chr 7:1-3). This
flame was to be kept burning always (Lev 6:13).
This same image of fire, which symbolizes the living
presence of the Spirit of God, is also seen in the New Tes-
tament (Matt 3:11; Acts 2:3).
b. Water - Water is a symbol used in the Old Testament
to signify the Holy Spirit bringing spiritual refreshing and
blessings from God. In this part of the world where water
was scarce, the symbolic use of water to represent God’s
Spirit spoke clearly to people (Ps 23:2; Isa 35:6,7).
Ezekiel had a vision of a great river flowing from
God’s dwelling place in His temple (Ezek 47:1-12). This
was reflective of the unrestricted flow of God’s Spirit
upon His people.
Jeremiah uses the “fountain of living waters”
(Jer 2:13; 17:13) to portray God’s presence by His Spirit.
Jesus also speaks of living waters: “…out of his heart will
flow rivers of living water. But this He spoke concerning
the Spirit…” (John 7:37-39). In this instance, Jesus was
specifically prophesying about the coming outpouring of
the Holy Spirit (John 14:16,17; Acts 2).
c. Blood - We read in the Old Testament about a spe-
cial anointing for the priests involving blood (Ex 29:19-
21).
d. Oil - The use of oil was widespread throughout the
Old Testament. From common usage in cooking, lamps
and cosmetics, to the highest of temple functions, oil
played an important role.
Oil was especially symbolic of the presence and con-
secrating power of the Holy Spirit. We see this with kings
(1Sam 10:1), priests (Ex 29:1-9) and the ceremonial
cleansing of lepers (Lev 14:10-18).
Oil also symbolized joy (Is 61:3), and its absence rep-
resented sorrow or humiliation (Joel 1:10). Oil was also an
image of prosperity (Deut 33:24), comfort (Job 29:6) and
spiritual nourishment (Ps 45:7).
A Powerful Symbolic Picture
From just this brief look at the Old Testament, we see
the rich deposit of symbols, pictures and imagery that re-
veal much to us about the anointing of the Holy Spirit and
His work in our lives.
As foretypes, these represent the anointing and work
of the Holy Spirit that we now have available to us today!
This anointing is the fulfilled promise of our heavenly Fa-
ther (Joel 2:28-32) to pour out His Spirit upon His people
(Acts 2:33-39).
ACTS • 27
 One of the most powerful symbolic pictures of the
anointing of the Holy Spirit is the making and use of the
holy anointing oil.
A study of the following passage will give us much
insight into the nature and function of the anointing of the
Holy Spirit.
“Moreover the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: ‘Also
take for yourself quality spices – five hundred shekels of
liquid myrrh, half as much sweet-smelling cinnamon (two
hundred and fifty shekels), two hundred and fifty shekels
of sweet-smelling cane, five hundred shekels of cassia, ac-
cording to the shekel of the sanctuary, and a hin of olive
oil. And you shall make from these a holy anointing oil, an
ointment compounded according to the art of the per-
fumer. It shall be a holy anointing oil. With it you shall
anoint the tabernacle of meeting and the ark of the Testi-
mony; the table and all its utensils, the lampstand and its
utensils, and the altar of incense; the altar of burnt offer-
ing with all its utensils, and the laver and its base. You
shall consecrate them, that they may be most holy; what-
ever touches them must be holy. And you shall anoint
Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may
minister to Me as priests. And you shall speak to the chil-
dren of Israel, saying: “This shall be a holy anointing oil
to Me throughout your generations. It shall not be poured
on man’s flesh; nor shall you make any other like it, ac-
cording to its composition. It is holy, and it shall be holy
to you. Whoever compounds any like it, or whoever puts
any of it on an outsider, shall be cut off from his people”’”
(Ex 30:22-33).
The anointing oil was sacred and holy unto the Lord.
The Israelites were to view the anointing oil in the same
way. This mixture was a separate and unique anointing oil
to be used only for sacred functions (vs.31-33).
God gave a divine formula for this anointing oil
(vs.22-25). It was not to be duplicated for other uses. Its
use was forbidden to anyone outside the covenant people
of Israel (v.33).
Divine Appointing
As it was a foretype of the anointing of the Holy
Spirit, the very strict statutes regarding this special
anointing oil reveal to us three very important
principles.
First, God has a sovereign will regarding the anoint-
ing of His Spirit. Just as He directed the ingredients of the
anointing oil (Ex 30:22-25), God alone directs His anoint-
ing (1Sam 10:1) and how this anointing is to be expressed
through a person’s life (1Cor 12:7,11).
Second, the anointing oil was intended for the priests
who served in the Tabernacle (Ex 30:30). It was not to be
poured upon a person’s flesh (30:32). All genuine believ-
ers in Jesus Christ, as the “royal priesthood” of God
(1Pet 2:9,10; Rev 1:6), have an anointing of the Holy
Spirit (1John 2:20-27).
This anointing is not available to the unbeliever. The
Spirit of God lives only in those who are saved and who
walk in obedience to God (John 3:5,6; Rom 8:14-16;
1Cor 12:3).
28 • ACTS
Pastor To Pastor: In the Old Testament, the High
Priest went into the holy of holies once a year to make
atonement for the people (see Leviticus 16). He alone
had direct access to God each year.
At the time of Christ’s death on the cross, the very
dense, carpet-like tapestry that covered the holy of
holies in the temple was supernaturally torn in two
from top to bottom (Mark 15:38; see also Exodus
26:31-33). This powerful event reveals that full ac-
cess to God was now totally opened to all people.
When Christ cancelled the debt of humanity’s sin at
the cross, salvation through faith in Him was made
available to all who would receive Him (Rom 10:9,10).
All those who call upon the name of the Lord shall
be saved (Rom 10:12,13). And all those who are
saved by faith in Jesus Christ have free access to the
“throne of grace” (Eph 3:12; Heb 4:16; 10:19), which
is God’s very presence! Hallelujah!
Christians no longer need a priest or anyone else
to go to God on their behalf. Every believer can and
should have their own personal relationship with God
through prayer, worship and fellowship. They can talk
and pray to Him; they can hear from Him.
This equal access to God for all who believe in
His Son for salvation is why all believers are called
a holy priesthood. “…you also, as living stones, are
being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to
offer up spiritual sacrifices [i.e., worship, prayer, acts
of service, tithes and offerings] acceptable to God
through Jesus Christ” (1Pet 2:5; see also Rev 1:6).
The “spiritual sacrifices” to which we are called
do not cause us to be accepted by God. We are al-
ready accepted by God because of the sacrifice of
Jesus on the cross. Our salvation is only by faith in
Jesus, not by any works of our own (Eph 2:8,9).
This is why the tapestry which covered the holy of
holies in the temple was torn from the top down to the
bottom. This act symbolically demonstrated that our
salvation was God-initiated. This means that God
reached to us by the non-earnable favor (grace) of
Christ dying for our sins on the cross.
Our efforts at being righteous are ultimately futile
and cannot gain us salvation (Rom 3:9-20; Gal 2:16).
However, we live out and express our faith through
spiritual sacrifices as we walk in obedience to God
and service to His Body and the world (Jas 2:14-26).
Pastor, you must teach these basic truths of the
cross often. Those you lead must understand the sal-
vation they have freely received; and then be able to
communicate it clearly to those desperately trying to
“earn” their salvation through any means other than
what Christ has already provided (1Pet 3:15). ■
Third, the anointing oil is not to be duplicated for
other uses, nor is it to be counterfeited (Ex 30:32,33).
Anointing with oil in the Old Testament symbolized
God’s divine appointing of an object or person. This ap-
pointment dedicated the object or person to a special place
or function in God’s purposes. With a sovereignly-com-
manded appointment came the authority and power
needed to equip the individual to fulfill what God had de-
creed (1Sam 16:13; Is 61:1). The same principle is true
for the New Testament believer, regardless of the place of
service God has given them inside or outside the Church.
This is also true for those whom God has called specifi-
cally to full-time ministry service (2Cor 1:21;
1Thess 5:24). God makes available to us everything we
need not only to be fruitful servants of His, but to be over-
comers in life and ministry!
The Problem With Counterfeits
The availability of God’s anointing to us is wonderful
news! But we must be careful not to miss the warnings in
Exodus 30 about counterfeiting the anointing oil. God
considered this a serious, even criminal, offense
(Ex 30:32,33). One who sinned in this manner was “cut
off” from the people of Israel. Biblical scholars often as-
sociate this phrase with being put to death.
What does this symbolism of counterfeiting mean to
us today as New Testament ministers? We have already
examined the sin of using God’s anointing for our own
gain (Phil 1:15,16). There are other ways in which God’s
anointing is counterfeited in ministry today.
Some people in ministry mistakenly think that the
goal of their preaching is to get people excited. So they
counterfeit the anointing by their exuberant style of
preaching or teaching. Sometimes they will say things that
people want to hear, even if it contradicts the Bible; they
might tell exaggerated stories; or they might use other
forms of manipulation to excite the crowd.
Others in ministry may want to be impressive and
gain a following for themselves. They may counterfeit
anointing by pretending to understand “deep mysteries”
that no one else knows (2Cor 11:3,4); claim titles or posi-
tions in order to be impressive to others; or use their po-
sition or authority to influence others to do things that may
be unrighteous or that may benefit the leader.
There are many other ways in which people are
tempted to counterfeit or misuse anointing. But the point
is this: Counterfeiting or misusing the Holy Spirit’s anoint-
ing is a serious offense to God. It is also a form of decep-
tion that, when pursued, will give place to the demonic
realm in a church leader’s life. Ultimately this will bring
the judgment of God on that person’s life as well.
Counterfeiting the Holy Spirit’s anointing is addressed
in the New Testament. One of the more pointed examples
is when Paul condemns “false apostles”. Paul equates
them with Satan’s attempt to mimic God’s angels in order
to lead believers astray (see 2 Corinthians Chapter 11).
There are those today who appear to be messengers
anointed by God, but they are not. The New Testament gives
many warnings about them (Matt 7:15-20; Acts 20:27-30;
2Cor 11:1-15; Gal 1:6-10; Col 2:18-23; 1Tim 4:1-3;
2Tim 3:1-9; 2Pet 2:1-22; 1John 4:1-6; Jude 3-19).
Later in this article, we will study seven characteris-
tics that are found in those functioning with a genuine
anointing from the Holy Spirit. This list will be helpful in
examining your own ministry, as well as in discerning the
genuine presence of the Holy Spirit in other ministers or
church leaders.
Pastor To Pastor: There is nothing wrong with
wanting to be effective in ministry and desiring the
anointing power of the Holy Spirit. But it is wrong to
pretend to be something we are not, including trying
to act like we are anointed.
Besides, why should we go through the effort of
pretending we are anointed, when we truly can be
anointed – if we will receive it on God’s terms and not
our own.
We can protect our lives from sin and deception
regarding anointing – and step into an ever-growing,
genuine anointing of the Spirit – in several ways:
• Accept the gifts and calling that God has given
you; do not envy or criticize what others have or try to
imitate them.
• Pray daily to know the will of God for you and
your ministry.
• Be content with where God has called you,
and with what He is asking you to do.
• Continually ask for God’s help and power to do
His will.
• Remind yourself every day that you are in min-
istry to serve God and others, and not to serve your-
self or your own gain.
Also, keep in mind that there is no particular style
of preaching or leading that is more “anointed” than
another style. I have seen anointed leaders who
speak gently and quietly. While they were teaching
the Word of God, people were sovereingly healed or
touched by the Holy Spirit. Other leaders may show
more outward physical expression or become louder
when the Holy Spirit is ministering through them to
others. Neither style is right or wrong.
The important thing is to cultivate sensitivity to
the Holy Spirit each time you minister. Pause, listen,
respond to what He is saying and doing in a particu-
lar gathering. Then align your style with what the Holy
Spirit desires to minister at that moment.
Be reminded that God has called you just as you
are. He has given you specific gifts for a reason. He
desires to use you as the person you are along with
the gifts you have – in combination with His Holy
Spirit’s anointing and transforming work – to minister
to others. ■
2. Lessons From The Anointing Oil
Let us now examine more thoroughly the ingredients
of the anointing oil and what they reveal about the anoint-
ing of the Holy Spirit.
Specifically, the anointing oil contained myrrh, cin-
namon, sweet cane (calamus), cassia and olive oil
(Ex 30:23,24).
a. Myrrh. Myrrh was a mild narcotic used as a pain
killer. Known for its pleasant smell, it was also used in the
making of perfumes and cosmetics.
ACTS • 29
 Myrrh was among the gifts presented to the young
Jesus by the wise men (Matt 2:11). At the cross, there was
an attempt to give myrrh to Jesus to ease His suffering, yet
He refused it (Mark 15:23). By refusing this pain-killer,
Christ Jesus held fast to His mission to “taste death for
everyone” (Heb 2:9). Because of its fragrance, myrrh was
also one of the spices used for Jesus’ burial (John 19:39).
The use of myrrh as an agent that removes pain has a
prophetic significance for us. Jesus Christ, the Anointed
One, came to bear our burdens at the cross. At that place
of sacrifice, Jesus fulfilled His purpose of being our
Healer (1Pet 2:24) and the One who sets us free from the
bondage of sin and death (Heb 2:9,14-18).
As a prophetic symbol in the anointing oil, myrrh
speaks to us of how the Holy Spirit helps to bring people
into healing and deliverance from their brokenness,
bondage to sin, and sickness. The prophet Isaiah speaks
prophetically of the power of anointing: “…the yoke will
be destroyed because of the anointing oil” (Isa 10:27).
The Hebrew word for a yoke being “destroyed” in this
verse goes beyond just being damaged or broken; it means
utterly destroyed.
The power of the Holy Spirit can totally deliver peo-
ple and bring complete healing to the sick. It is God’s de-
sire that we minister to others in this way with the Holy
Spirit’s anointing.
b. Cinnamon. In biblical times, cinnamon was a rare,
expensive and highly prized spice (Song 4:14). Cinnamon
is fragrant, but is best known for its fiery-hot taste when
used in certain foods. Thus, the presence of this spice in
the holy anointing oil speaks to us of the fire or zeal that
comes from the anointing of the Holy Spirit.
John the Baptist described Jesus the Messiah as the
One who would baptize us with the Holy Spirit and with
fire (Matt 3:11). The word “fire” in this verse is interpreted
by some as an agent of purification in the heart of a be-
liever. There is truth in this interpretation, but the mean-
ing goes even further. Fire is explosive, powerful and
consuming. Scripture speaks of Jesus being consumed
with zeal for His Father’s house (John 2:13-17).
Supernatural Boldness
There is a clear example of this type of fiery zeal from
the Holy Spirit in the New Testament. Before the Day of
Pentecost, the disciples and the few remaining believers
were together in a room in Jerusalem (Acts 1:12-14). They
had been told by Jesus that they were to evangelize the
world (Acts 1:8). Yet how could such a huge task be ac-
complished by so few people? They were not great ora-
tors, philosophers or even well educated. They were
ordinary people, surrounded by a hostile culture that had
just crucified their leader.
These men and women were not cowards, but they
were confused, unsure and without a sense of what to do
or how to do it. But they wisely waited, continuing in
prayer while maintaining unity and mutual encourage-
ment. Though they did not understand, they clung to the
promise that Jesus had made to them of a coming power
from the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5,8). And so they waited…
30 • ACTS
The disciples went from being
frightened, uncertain sheep to
becoming bold, testifying,
miracle-working shepherds!
They declared the Gospel
without shame, even to the point
of suffering and death. This is
the fiery zeal that comes from
the anointing of the Holy Spirit.
“And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of
a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where
they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided
tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they
were all filled with the Holy Spirit…” (Acts 2:2-4).
In a single moment, the lives of those approximately
120 people were changed as they were filled with the Holy
Spirit! Immediately, this event gained notice (Acts 2:5-
13). Peter, an uneducated fisherman who had denied
Christ out of fear, suddenly stands and boldly preaches his
first sermon under the anointing of the Holy Spirit (2:14-
39). As a result, more than 3,000 souls were added to the
Kingdom of God that very day (2:41).
The disciples went from being frightened, uncertain
sheep to becoming bold, testifying, miracle-working shep-
herds! They declared the Gospel without shame, even to the
point of suffering and death. This is the fiery zeal that comes
from the anointing of the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:23-31).
This zeal is not a passing moment of human emotion.
It is a strength and boldness that arises like a flame from
within when we have the anointing of the Holy Spirit. It
is a deep confidence in the truth of God’s Word and the
Gospel of Jesus Christ that moves us to act, to pray, to
preach, to believe for a miracle – all by the power of the
Holy Spirit!
c. Sweet Cane (calamus). This is a highly fragrant
cane whose stem root was greatly desired by perfumers.
The pleasant fragrance was best released by bruising or
crushing the root of the plant.
In the same way, there is a type of bruising or crush-
ing of a believer’s life that is necessary to release the fra-
grant aroma of God’s presence within us.
Please note that this is not the same type of broken-
ness and destruction that comes from sinful and rebellious
choices. Instead, this is a holy brokenness that comes only
by the hand of God.
This spiritual crushing, though sometimes painful,
produces two things:
First, it puts to death our flesh – our selfish desires and
our self-dependence (Luke 9:23-26; Rom 12:1,2; 13:14;
Gal 5:16-26).
 Second, this “breaking open” of our lives allows a
greater measure of the grace and power of God to be made
manifest in and through us. Paul writes about this very
thing in his letter to the Corinthians (2Cor 12:7-10).
Pastor To Pastor: As church leaders, we feel the
need to be strong, confident and competent. The re-
sult of this can be that we leave no room for the Holy
Spirit to be strong through us. There is a right kind of
weakness that causes us to properly lean upon the
Holy Spirit and depend upon His anointing in our
lives. This is how ministry is done by His power, and
not our own.
There is a scriptural basis for the type of bruising
that accompanies anointing from the Holy Spirit. This
crushing cannot, and should not, be avoided. It is a
necessary part of maturing into Christ’s image – lead-
ing us to a life of surrender, trust and obedience as
nothing else can.
Please take a few minutes and look up the fol-
lowing scriptural examples, meditating upon the truth
in each one:
• Jesus – Isaiah 53:1-6; Acts 3:18; Hebrews 5:9;
12:2
• Paul (and others) – Acts 9:15,16; Romans 8:18;
2 Corinthians 1:3-7; 4:7-18; 6:4-10; 11:22-30; 12:7-
10
• All believers – I Thessalonians 2:14-16; 2 Tim-
othy 3:12; 1 Peter 4:1-19 ■
Life-Giving Self-Denial
The powerful principle of breaking and bruising is seen
in other scriptural symbolism as well. For instance, in com-
munion, breaking and crushing are a necessary part of the
forming of the elements (Luke 22:14-20; 1Cor 11:23-26).
Jesus used the bread (broken and ground wheat) and the
wine (crushed grapes) as symbols of what He was about
to do for all of humanity through His crucifixion.
Jesus Christ bore God’s judgment upon Himself as the
righteous consequence for our sins. His dying upon the
cross reveals the ultimate, divine crushing that was nec-
essary to release life (Acts 2:23,24) – the eternal life of
salvation through believing in Jesus. Thank God that we
do not have to undergo this ordeal, even though that is
what our sin and rebellion deserve!
However, there is a dying to self that is necessary in
order for the life and power of God within us to be re-
leased through us. This is NOT a type of fanatical mar-
tyrdom or self-mutilation to “prove” our spirituality. But
the requirement of walking with Christ and fully serving
Him demands a willingness to lead a life of self-denial
and submission to God’s will, even to the point of sacri-
fice (2Sam 24:18-24; Luke 9:23-26).
Becoming Trustworthy Vessels
Jesus’ attitude in the midst of suffering is our ultimate
example: “…who for the joy that was set before Him en-
dured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at
the right hand of the throne of God” (Heb 12:2). Jesus
fully embraced the purposes of God the Father in His suf-
fering and sacrifice.
Of course, Jesus did not enjoy the suffering
(Luke 22:42-44). But He did realize the necessity of the
cross (Luke 24:46-49). His willingness to suffer and die in
our place not only released our salvation, but was an act
of obedience to fulfill the Father’s will (Matt 26:39,42,44).
Our suffering and sacrifice may be small compared to
what Jesus gave for us, but it is difficult nonetheless. How-
ever, we do have the benefit of God’s amazing commit-
ment to use our suffering for His glory and our good at the
same time (Jas 1:2-5,12). God is committed to taking the
sufferings and tribulations we encounter in this life and
turning them to ultimate blessing (Rom 5:1-5; 8:18,
2Cor 4:17).
Our Father’s commitment to us is stated clearly: “And
we know that all things work together for good to those
who love God, to those who are the called according to
His purpose” (Rom 8:28). And what is God’s “purpose”
for those who have believed upon Christ for salvation? It
is also clearly stated in the very next verse: “…to be con-
formed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first-
born among many brethren” (Rom 8:29).
God desires to use everything in our lives to shape us
into the image of Christ, fit vessels for the Master’s use
(2Tim 2:19-21). Sometimes our suffering is due to the bro-
kenness of this world and the sinful nature of the people
who are in it. At other times, God may orchestrate cir-
cumstances in our lives for His divine use and purpose.
Either way, God promises to use it for our good.
God will transform us in such a way that we become
pure and trustworthy vessels of His will and purpose, al-
lowing the anointing of the Holy Spirit to flow through us
unhindered. But we must cooperate with and yield to His
work in our lives!
The Fragrance Of Christ
Every believer in Christ, and especially each church
leader, is called to be one who “diffuses the fragrance of
His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fra-
grance of Christ among those who are being saved and
among those who are perishing” (2Cor 2:14,15). This
aroma of the reality of God’s presence will be released
through our lives as we yield to His holy “crushing” and
transforming work.
Throughout Scripture, and today, God uses ordinary
men and women in mighty ways. Often, they endure
crushing and bruising in their preparation and during
their service. But because of it, the purposes of God are
fulfilled and the fragrance of God is released through
their lives. It is worth being reminded again that there
are truly no great men and women of God – only hum-
ble (broken, yielded) men and women who are greatly
used of God!
d. Cassia. Cassia is the bark of a plant that is similar
to the cinnamon plant. Cassia was used as a laxative in
Bible times. As a symbol in the holy anointing oil, cassia
represents the purifying effect of the anointing of the Holy
Spirit.
ACTS • 31
 It is true that the anointing of the Holy Spirit provides
us with power, gifts and divine ability. But in addition, the
Holy Spirit’s work is to transform the lives of those He
anoints.
We can study a clear example of the importance of
this work in the life of King Saul. Samuel anointed Saul
to be king over Israel (1Sam 10:1). Saul was set apart for
God’s assigned purpose to be king. The anointing gave
Saul authority, gifting and abilities to carry out his God-
given assignment.
The Scriptures reveal even more that Saul received
with his anointing: “Then the Spirit of the LORD will
come upon you, and you will prophesy with them and
be turned into another man” (1Sam 10:6). Then,
shortly after that: “So it was, when he had turned his
back to go from Samuel, that God gave him another
heart” (v.9).
We can see that the anointing not only equipped Saul
with what he needed, but it also included a transforming
work. This made him a far more worthy and useful in-
strument in God’s hand. This is a wonderful and encour-
aging picture of what the anointing of the Holy Spirit can
provide for us as God’s instruments as well.
Unfortunately, Saul (as have others) turned his back
on all that God had given him by rejecting God’s Word
and commands in favor of doing his own will
(1Sam 15:22-33). How tragic that what began as a great
rulership over Israel ended in shame for King Saul and his
family.
Pastor To Pastor: God gave King Saul every-
thing he needed to fulfill his assignment and to be a
successful king. Saul did that for a time, and was fruit-
ful. But, sadly, Saul then chose to do what he wanted
instead of what God had commanded, and his end
was failure.
When God calls us, He makes available to us
what we will need to fulfill His will. But never forget
that what the Father is shaping us to be is as impor-
tant as what He is calling us to do. God desires our
transformation, that we become Christlike in charac-
ter and action.
Our Father requires us to obey His Word and
trust Him in all things. We will never mature to the
place that we no longer need to grow and respond to
the transforming work of the Holy Spirit! It is a lifelong
process.
The Holy Spirit will correct, reprove and convict
us. God does not condemn us (Rom 8:1), but does
require that we obey and yield to His transforming
work. Sometimes we may stumble or fail; but we must
quickly repent and come back into proper alignment
and submission to God and His will.
God works to transform us:
• For His glory;
• For our joy, peace and blessing; and
• To make us more fruitful and effective as His am-
bassadors and servants to others in ministry. ■
32 • ACTS
We will reap what we sow,
whether that be righteousness
and blessing, or corruption. God
will hold us, as leaders, to a
stricter standard.
Responding To The Spirit’s Work
In studying cassia, we have learned of a primary work
of the Holy Spirit. He comes to purge out that which is
not in line with the life, character and Person of Christ. A
vital sign of a truly anointed person is that they are be-
coming more and more like Christ in their character – not
necessarily any great ability, gifting or ministry that they
exhibit.
As church leaders, we must allow the Holy Spirit to
continually deal with our fleshly weaknesses, temptations
and failures. We must not grieve the Holy Spirit by resist-
ing His transforming work in us (Eph 4:30).
We will reap what we sow, whether that be righteous-
ness and blessing, or corruption (Gal 6:7,8). God will hold
us, as leaders, to a stricter standard (Jas 3:1). Do not be
deceived; God is not fooled. If you persist in sin, it will
eventually become obvious to all (Num 32:23).
So choose righteousness! Respond to the Holy Spirit’s
work! Obey and trust God! Receive His anointing on your
life and ministry! Be an example to others of a responsive,
teachable, yielded vessel to the Holy Spirit’s work. Let
Him work in you, so that He can be glorified even more
through you! Amen!
e. Olive Oil. Oil is the symbol most often used to rep-
resent the Holy Spirit in both the Old and New Testa-
ments. Olive oil as an ingredient in the holy anointing oil
has profound significance. It has elements of each of the
other four ingredients, and adds one more unique feature.
In biblical times, olive oil was:
• used as medicine, to treat illness and pain (like
myrrh);
• used as fuel for lamps, and was associated with fire
(like cinnamon);
• made by crushing and bruising, and gives off a pleas-
ant aroma (like cane);
• used to cleanse and purify both outwardly and in-
wardly (like cassia).
But olive oil has an additional quality that is vital to
the Body of Christ. Olive oil is a natural lubricant. When
placed between or over two objects, it reduces friction and
wear.
This symbolism speaks to us of the necessity and im-
portance of unity among God’s people. Scripture presents
this concept of associating anointing and unity together in
a beautiful way: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it
is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the pre-
cious oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the
beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his gar-
 The Church: one harmonious whole... every part important.
ments. It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the
mountains of Zion; for there the LORD commanded the
blessing – life forevermore” (Psalm 133).
Unity among God’s people is a source of joy and
peace. God is pleased when His people walk in right rela-
tionship with one another. His blessing is released and the
anointing of the Holy Spirit flows more freely.
Symphonic Relationship
The biblical concept of unity is often misunderstood.
In the Scriptures, unity is not the same thing as uniformity.
Uniformity is when all things are exactly the same,
and there is no difference of any kind.
However, the concept of unity in Scripture is like a
symphony. In a symphony, there are many different musi-
cal instruments. Each plays a different part. But these var-
ious parts are all working together under the direction of
a conductor. Thus, there is a lovely, harmonious whole.
This is also true in the Body of Christ. There are many
different gifts, callings, styles, personalities and abilities.
Yet we have all been called into a symphonic relationship
(John 17:20,21). No one is exactly the same as another;
yet each has been called to play an important part. God
then directs the willing participants into a harmonious
symphony – His Body, loving one another as a testimony
to the world (John 13:34,35).
Paul speaks of this as he discusses the manifestation
gifts of the Spirit in 1 Corinthians Chapter 12 (see also
1 Corinthians 14:26-40). The early Church was an exam-
ple of this unity, which was fostered by the anointing pres-
ence of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:42, 44-47).
Dangers Of Disunity
Disunity among the members of Christ’s Body has
widespread ramifications. Paul rebuked the Corinthians
regarding their divisiveness (1Cor 3:1-23). He called them
fleshly and immature: “For you are still carnal. For where
there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you
not carnal and behaving like mere men?” (v.3).
Disunity and division among the brethren is a serious
offense. It is not only destructive; it also severely limits
the speed and effectiveness of God’s Kingdom work.
Paul’s discussion of the manifestation gifts mentioned
above was prompted by the disorder and disunity created
by people’s pride and selfishness.
Most grievous is the fact that when the members of
the Body of Christ do not have love for each other and
serve the Lord’s purposes in a unified manner, our witness
before the world is severely hampered. The Bible urgently
reminds us that the world will know we are Christians by
our love for one another (John 13:35). If the world does
not see the presence of love among us, our witness to the
world appears questionable.
We can do great works in Christ’s name; be a great
preacher; hold evangelistic crusades; and much more. But
if we do not love our brothers and sisters in Christ, these
acts lose their effectiveness (see 1 Corinthians 13).
There are numerous exhortations in the Scriptures re-
garding the danger of attitudes that violate or hinder unity
in the Body of Christ. Please take a few minutes and read
just a few of them:
• Romans 13:13,14
• Galatians 5:13-23
• Ephesians 4:20-29
• 1 Timothy 6:3-5
• Titus 3:9-11
• James 3:14-16
• 1 John 2:9-11; 3:10-18
These verses clearly show that where there is division,
strife, enmity, bitterness, jealousy, competition, resent-
ACTS • 33

The Holy Spirit will
lead us into right
relationships.
ment, etc., unity is hindered and even broken. This grieves
the Holy Spirit (Eph 4:30) and can quench His anointing
presence (1Thess 5:19).
It is obvious that where these carnal attitudes are
present, the devil is also behind the scenes hard at work to
bring division and hinder the work of God (Jas 3:13-16).
“Divide and conquer” is a strategy as old as the devil him-
self – a strategy he has learned to use well to hinder and
attempt to destroy the Body of Christ. But his strategies
are effective only if we cooperate with them!
Relationships: Valued By God
The anointing of the Holy Spirit will bring healing and
reconciliation of relationships within the Body. This
should be especially true among leaders. God expects us
to live in right relationship – first with Him, and then with
one another (Eph 2:14-17). It is only human pride, envy
and bitter selfishness that stand in the way. These attitudes
are what the devil will use to sow disunity, hate and un-
forgiveness in the Body.
If you feel that your brother has something against
you, go to him and seek to make things right
(Matt 5:23,24). If you have something against someone
else, be quick to REPENT! (Matt 5:21,22) Repent of tak-
ing offense and allowing anger, hatred and judgmental
attitudes to take root in your heart. Forgive others, lest
God’s judgment come upon you (Matt 6:14,15; see also
Matthew 18:21-35).
God places great importance upon relationship – so
much so, that He sent His Son to suffer and die so that the
relationship with Him that was broken by our sin could be
34 • ACTS
restored. In this same way, His love
and forgiveness toward us make
possible right relationships with one
another.
We have learned that what God
commands, He always makes possi-
ble. And He has commanded us to
have right relationships with one an-
other (John 13:34,35).
We must value and continuously
invest in our relationship with God.
We must also do the same with our
brothers and sisters in Christ.
All lasting and life-transform-
ing ministry flows from healthy re-
lationships. This process begins with
what we receive from God in rela-
tionship with Him. Then, out of love
and compassion and from what we
have received from God, we then
give to and serve others. This is
God’s pattern for ministry. Jesus’ life
on this earth serves as a continuous
example of this kind of ministry pat-
tern for us.
Unity, Diversity, Love
There are differences of expres-
sion in the Body of Christ. But these differences need not
become stumbling blocks to unity and relationship (Rom
14:13). Remember, unity is not the same as uniformity.
Unity is a symphonic relationship as we each respond to
the inner working of the Holy Spirit’s anointing in our life.
The Holy Spirit will always convict us, help us and lead
us into right relationship with others – if we will respond.
A simple guide for unity has been expressed this way:
“In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, diversity; in all
things, charity (love).”
As we grow and live in the anointing of the Holy
Spirit, let us have grace and love for one another. As we
do, the anointing of the Holy Spirit and the witness of
Christ can be released more fully in and through us!
Gaining Understanding
This brief study of the holy anointing oil (Ex 30:22-33)
reveals that God has given to us some amazing images
and foretypes of the work of His Holy Spirit. Surely, our
study of the Scriptures gives us understanding, wisdom
and hope (Rom 15:4).
During this study thus far, you may have some ques-
tions, such as:
• Can I grow in anointing? If so, how?
• Is there such a thing as “false anointing”? If so, how
can I recognize genuine anointing?
• What will hurt or quench the anointing in my life?
• Can I be continually filled with the anointing of the
Holy Spirit?
We will discuss these questions and more in the next
section, “Walking In The Anointing”. 
 The Anointing of the
Holy Spirit
PART III
WALKING IN THE ANOINTING
As we begin our study of learning to live daily in the
anointing of the Holy Spirit, let us briefly review some
critical principles.
The anointing of the Holy Spirit is not a “spiritual
badge” to attain. Nor is it just a familiarity with religious
words or phrases. Rather, it is a living, growing relation-
ship with the Holy Spirit.
Remember, the Holy Spirit is a Person, just as Jesus
and the Father are Persons. Therefore, we can – and must
– learn to walk in a daily, living relationship with the Holy
Spirit.
We have learned that anointing is not some kind of
mystical force or power for us to use or manipulate for
selfish purposes. Anointing is, however, a divine power,
ability and gifting directly linked to the Person of the Holy
Spirit and His presence within our lives. The power that
comes from the presence of the Holy Spirit flows through
our personal relationship with Him.
Anointing is the Person and presence of the Holy
Spirit, bringing with His presence all of the necessary
power, gifts and authority that are needed to fulfill the
Father’s will at a given moment of ministry or
assignment.
Our First Responsibility
We have learned that during the time of the Old Tes-
tament, the Holy Spirit of God “came upon” His prophets,
priests, judges and other servants.
In the New Testament times and following – also
known as The Church Age – the Holy Spirit has been
poured out (Acts Chapter 2). God the Spirit lives within
each genuine believer, to lead us, comfort us and minister
through us to others (John 7:37-39; 14:16,17,26).
All believers in Jesus Christ have been given the Holy
Spirit (1John 2:20,27). This is necessary because every
believer is called to some form of expression of ministry
as a member of the Body of Christ (Eph 4:12). We all need
the help of the Holy Spirit every day!
But for those who are called to a particular ministry
assignment, there is a specific and profound anointing
available. This anointing is given by God in His sover-
eignty. One can either receive it and grow in it, or choose
to reject it or ignore it.
This kind of anointing (divine empowerment by the
Holy Spirit) is related directly to your gifts and calling.
For example, a person called to fulfill the gift of evangel-
ist (Eph 4:11) may not have the anointing for an apostolic
gift. He will function best and be most fruitful when op-
erating within the power, gifts and authority for which he
has been anointed – in this case as an evangelist.
However, in everyday, practical application, it may
not be quite that simple. Though one might be called and
anointed for a particular ministry task, each of us still has
a general call as a believer in Christ to live and function
daily as a participant in Christ’s Body.
For instance, from what we can see in Scripture, Tim-
othy was likely called to teach and pastor in the church.
Yet he was also commanded by Paul to “do the work of an
evangelist” (2Tim 4:5) – not to be an evangelist, but to at
times do the work necessary to evangelize others.
Therefore, we see that as ministers of Christ, we all
have general responsibilities and tasks to do that may not
involve our specific calling. But they are, nonetheless, still
necessary and important to the healthy function of Christ’s
Body.
Our first and primary responsibility as a believer in
Jesus Christ, and as a church leader, is obedience to
Christ. We must obey the Lord and live by the standards
He has already given to us through the Word of God.
In Scripture, we see that believers have been assigned
many responsibilities: to serve others, feed the poor, care
for orphans, equip the saints, reach the lost – the list goes
on. There will be times and seasons in your life with Christ
that you will need to devote time and effort to these forms
of ministry outreach, in addition to your primary calling or
assignment.
ACTS • 35
 A good guideline to follow in discerning what you are
to be doing in ministry is this: “Whatever your hand finds
to do, do it with your might” (Eccl 9:10; see also Colos-
sians 3:23). Pray over every opportunity, and then be
quick to obey the Lord as He calls you to serve others. It
does not matter whether the task before you is great or
small – what is important is that when the Lord asks you
to do it, then obey Him!
Pastor To Pastor: My first official “position” as a
licensed minister and Bible-school graduate was as a
full-time janitor of a large church. I spent two years
cleaning bathrooms, emptying trash, vacuuming
meeting rooms, picking up the grounds and other dull
but necessary tasks.
I did not really enjoy this job. It was not easy. And
it was humbling. But I knew God had asked me to do
it; and it was some of the best preparation for learn-
ing to serve the Body of Christ that I could ever have
received. It was truly a test of my faithfulness.
My obedience to this assignment and diligence
in carrying it out led to the open door for the next as-
signment, and so on with each ministry assignment
through the years. I have pioneered churches, taught
youth, pastored churches, spoken at conferences, led
missions teams, evangelized, and much more. And
somehow, by God’s grace, over that 30-year period,
the Lord prepared me and led me to the place of now
leading a worldwide ministry.
I fully believe I would not be leading World MAP
today if I had not been willing to obey the Lord to the
best of my ability all along the way – step by step, ful-
filling each assignment – no matter what He asked
me to do in His name. I did not always obey perfectly,
and I have made mistakes along the way. But over-
all, I did my best to keep following the path of obedi-
ence that God had set before me.
God has a plan for your life. He knows best how
to lead you to fulfill it. Our obedience to God and His
Word is not an option – it’s a necessity! ■
Our First Calling
No matter the level of leadership or influence, our
first calling is always to our relationship with Christ.
This relationship includes obedience, trust, service, per-
sonal holiness, humility, all the fruit of the Spirit
(Gal 5:22,23) and ongoing growth. These characteristics
provide the foundation for a rich and growing relationship
with Jesus Christ. One of the results of this solid founda-
tion of personal relationship is the release of ministry
through you, and the necessary anointing you will need to
accomplish your ministry assignments. With this basic re-
view of key principles in mind, let us now look more
closely at what it means to Walk In The Anointing.
A. PROTECTING THE ANOINTING
When the Holy Spirit anoints us for ministry, it is a
sacred privilege. It is something we must foster and pro-
tect in our lives.
36 • ACTS
Of course, I do not mean that the Holy Spirit (the
One who anoints us) somehow needs our protection.
Rather, we must protect our own heart and life from the
spiritual and moral pollution of this world (2Pet 1:2-4;
1John 2:15-17).
Solomon, the writer of Proverbs, exhorts: “Keep your
heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of
life” (Prov 4:23). It is through our life that the anointing
of the Holy Spirit will flow in ministry to others. Thus our
life, our heart, must be kept pure.
1. Rats In The Well
Paul states that each believer in Christ is a “temple of
the Holy Spirit” (1Cor 6:19,20). As such, we are exhorted
to not allow our “temple” to be defiled by participating in
sin (see also Romans 6).
The Bible contains numerous exhortations about re-
maining pure in body, soul and spirit (1John 3:2,3). These
passages are directed to every believer, and especially to
leaders in the Body of Christ!
Why is personal purity so important? Because the
Holy Spirit lives within us – each of us who have been
redeemed “with the precious blood of Christ, as of a
lamb without blemish and without spot” (1Pet 1:19), not
with the blood of bulls and goats (Heb 9:13,14). When
we participate in sinful actions or attitudes, the place
where the Holy Spirit desires to dwell becomes defiled
and polluted.
Keeping Pure
Let us say that there is a farm or village with a single
well of water available. Everyone uses that well and de-
pends on the water from that well. The water is used for
washing, cooking, laundering and drinking. Can you
imagine needing to use this water, only to find that dead
rats are floating in the well?
This provides a rather graphic picture of how our
choices can impact the temple of the Holy Spirit within
us. He is our greatest resource for all we need for daily
life. But not just for us personally. The Spirit of God
within us, as church leaders, helps us to be a godly re-
source for others.
Truly, in ministry we give to others out of what we
are and what we receive (Matt 10:8; see also the Sea of
Galilee/Dead Sea analogy in Part II, Section C.2). But
what if we have allowed “rats” into our lives? Certainly
the presence of sinful habits and attitudes will poison and
pollute us, affecting our ministry, our relationships, our
family, our jobs – everything we touch.
What are some of the more common “rats in the
well”? The New Testament gives us several categories,
and then gives lists of specifics within those groupings:
• Fruits of the flesh (Gal 5:19-21).
• Improper behavior based upon the deception of sin
(Eph 4:17-32).
• Legalism, or the spirit of religion (Gal 5:1-6;
Col 2:11-23).
• Striving for position, titles, power (Matt 6:1,2,5,16;
23:2-12).
 destruction and ruin for him and for his entire kingdom
As a leader in the Body of (see 1 Kings 11).
Solomon, like so many leaders, started well but fin-
Christ, you have been called to a ished poorly. How did this happen? It can be summed up
in one single word: disobedience.
life of purity and holiness. The A closer examination of the Book of 1 Kings reveals
that Solomon was a brilliant person, “wiser than all men”
anointing that God gives His (4:31). He acquired unparalleled wealth (10:11-29) and
called servants is far more the praise and honor of men (10:1-9). But then Solomon
began to violate God’s clear commands (11:1,2). And
precious and sacred than the slowly, choice after choice, compromise after compro-
mise, Solomon became consumed with himself, and with
holy anointing oil of the the blessings and privileges that were acquired because of
God’s anointing and gifts. This path ended in the ruina-
Tabernacle of the Old Testament tion of Solomon’s rule.
What, then, can we learn from Solomon’s life and
– for it is the very presence of reign?
the Holy Spirit Himself! a. Distraction leads to laxity (lack of discipline and
diligence). Solomon wrote that it is “the little foxes that
spoil the vines” (Song 2:15). Solomon’s court was filled
• Using ministry to gather wealth and possessions with wealth and opportunity, and many people who would
(Matt 6:19-21,24; 1Tim 6:3-10; 2Tim 4:10). do anything to be near him.
• Being judgmental, bitter, unforgiving (Matt 7:1-6; Do you think that God knows the capacity of the
18:21-35; Col 3:12-19; Heb 12:15; Jas 3:13-18). human heart to be distracted, even by seemingly innocent
• False teaching, heresy (Matt 24:4,5,11,23-27; pleasures – then to be led into undiscipline, and ultimately
Gal 1:8; 2Cor 11:13-15; 1Tim 4:1-5, 2Tim 2:14-18; disobedience? I am sure God does. Knowing this, He
2Pet 2:1-22; Jude 7-19). spoke repeatedly to Solomon to obey all that He com-
This is just a brief representation of “rats” that can manded him (1Ki 6:12; 9:4). But Solomon did not heed
ruin the personal “well” of your heart, and also pollute the Lord, especially once he became “successful”.
others that are within the sphere of your influence of life
and ministry.
As a leader in the Body of Christ, you have been
called to a life of purity and holiness (Matt 5:8; 1Cor 9:24-
27; Heb 12:14; 1Pet 1:13-19). The anointing that God
gives His called servants is far more precious and sacred
than the holy anointing oil of the Tabernacle of the Old
Testament – for it is the very presence of the Holy Spirit
Himself!
Our highest calling is to live in right relationship with
God. This requires us to live a pure and undefiled life as
a fit “temple” (1Cor 6:19,20), a place of residence for the
Holy Spirit. A life of purity glorifies and pleases God our
Father, and makes us far more trustworthy and usable in
the Master’s hands.
Only you can keep your own well pure. Decide now
to be a clean vessel from which flows the unhindered
Spirit of God and the unadulterated Word of God. Become
a purified ministry instrument, whom God can anoint to
do great exploits for His glory and purposes! (1Cor 10:31;
2Tim 2:19-21)

A Lesson From Failure

Solomon was a king who was raised up by God and
given exceptional gifting (1Ki 3:5-14; 4:29-34). He re-
ceived two miraculous visitations from the Lord (see
1 Kings 3 and 9). Solomon was commanded to observe
all of God’s ways and to obey His statutes and laws (3:14;
6:11-13; 9:4-9). And this Solomon did – for a time. Remember Solomon:
But we later read that Solomon’s rulership ended in distracted... to ruin.
ACTS • 37

Pastor To Pastor: Church leader, even the min-
istry can become a distraction if it becomes your con-
suming passion – pulling you away from time in God’s
presence due to being overly busy, or to pressure
from the constant needs of others. Jesus, while on
this earth, modeled for us the need to take time to
hear from His Father and to be spiritually refreshed
(Mark 1:35-39; Luke 5:16; 6:12).
We must never forget that the Lord is the fountain
and source for the anointing of His Spirit and for our
understanding of His Word (John 1:33; 6:63,68). It
comes from HIM! Truly fruitful ministry is the outflow
of what we receive at the feet of Jesus in prayer, wait-
ing upon Him and studying His Word (Luke 10:41,42;
John 15:16). Most of us know this very simple and
basic truth. The problem occurs when we fail to daily
apply this fundamental principle for power-filled life
and ministry.
Let us be on guard against the kinds of distrac-
tions that drain us, or that lead us to compromise and
sin. Solomon’s heart was pulled away from God by
that which he allowed in his life (1Ki 11:1-4,9). His loy-
alty and obedience to God were diluted with worldly
pursuits, to the point of his own destruction and the
ruination of all that God had set him over.
Some good questions to ask yourself about ANY
activity in your life are these: “Is this activity or atti-
tude leading me closer to God and His purposes for
my life? Or is it leading me away?” ■
b. The praise of men is a deadly pitfall. Teaching or
preaching for the praise of men is a trap that leads to de-
ception. It is God alone who can accomplish things of
eternal worth (Zech 4:6).
Yes, God does desire to use us as vessels through
whom He can work. But the power and glory belong to
God alone for anything good that is done through us. For
without Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5).
God has revealed in His Word that He will share His
glory with no man (Isa 42:8; 48:11). We must not seek
glory or praise from men for the work of ministry
(John 7:18).
One of the sharpest criticisms that Jesus made was of
the Scribes and Pharisees. He rebuked them for their love
of the praise of men (Matt 23:5-12; John 5:41-44). Even
though they knew the Scriptures and were familiar with
God’s ways, their pride led them to be unwilling to accept
or believe in Jesus Christ as their Messiah (John 5:39,40).
Following In His Footsteps
Jesus was given the Holy Spirit’s anointing without
measure (John 3:34,35). He was and is the King over all
kings, and the Lord over all lords. Yet, for our sake, He
made Himself a humble Servant (Matt 20:28; Phil 2:3-11).
Truly, as leaders in the Body of Christ, we should:
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ
Jesus…” (Phil 2:5). We have not been given the Holy
Spirit without measure as Jesus was. But we do have all of
38 • ACTS
His resources available to us, as we live in obedient rela-
tionship to Him and to the Holy Spirit (2Pet 1:2-4).
Of course, even with these resources, we are not
above or better than our Master. But instead, we are to be
like Him (John 13:12-17), using what God provides to
humbly serve others. Therefore, we should never think too
highly of ourselves when God uses us in ministry. We
must guard against pride – the sin of the devil (1Tim 3:6).
The Most Dangerous Of Sins
Pride is a deadly sin that can slowly poison even the
most committed leader and block the flow of the Holy
Spirit’s anointing. A church leader may have great skill,
wisdom or knowledge. But to take pride in these things is
folly. First, because all that we have comes from God. Sec-
ond, because all of our wisdom, skill and ability are really
nothing compared to both the anointing of God’s Spirit
and what God alone can do! (Matt 7:21-23; 1Cor 3:18-21;
4:20; 8:1-3)
Pride is likely the most dangerous of sins. It was the
fundamental sin of Satan (Isa 14:12-14). Pride can make
us decide we can do things better than God, and will ulti-
mately lead us into rebellion against God.
When we begin to make our own plans apart from
submission to God, we are actually in rebellion against
God. When we are not fully yielded to Him, we become
separated from Him, for “God resists the proud, but gives
grace to the humble” (Jas 4:6).
Pride leads us to feel self-sufficient and self-depen-
dent. Consequently, we believe we no longer need to be
taught by either God or man. We resist feeling that we
need anything from God, and we quit asking; so we also
quit receiving (Jas 4:1,2). It requires humble, childlike
faith to either ask of or learn from our Father in Heaven
(Matt 18:3,4).
God is the supplier of all that we need. We must
humbly recognize that we need Him and what He has pro-
vided for us, or we will never receive anything. Pride
keeps us from this kind of humility, thus robbing us of the
blessings of God’s Kingdom, including His anointing.
Trust In The Lord Alone
Imagine for moment a coin. On one side is stamped
“pride”. On the other side is stamped “the fear of man”.
These two sins of the flesh often manifest together in a
person’s life.
“The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in
the LORD shall be safe” (Prov 29:25). The “fear of man”
wears many faces. Some common ways in which pastors
are snared in this trap are:
• Fear of displeasing or upsetting people in the con-
gregation (even to the point of condoning their sin).
• Showing extra favor to those who give money or
who have influence.
• Saying or doing things to try and win approval
from (or be perceived as better than) fellow pastors or
other believers.
There are many other ways in which we can be en-
snared by the fear of man. But regardless of the method,
when you give place to the fear of man you become
trapped into doing the will of other people. You are en-
snared by their opinions and judgments. How can you then
serve the Lord with a full heart, when you are busy serv-
ing the opinions of men? One cannot serve two masters
(Matt 6:24); one cannot stand when the heart is divided
(Ps 86:11; Mark 3:24,25).
Jesus also faced this problem, through the selfish de-
sires of people (Mark 1:35-39; John 6:15,22-40); the judg-
ment of the Pharisees (Matt 22:15-22; Luke 7:36-50); or
even the demands of His own earthly family (Matt 12:46-
50; John 7:1-9).
In all of these points and more, Jesus did not cater to
the opinions of people. Rather, Jesus kept His focus on
doing only the will of God above all else and regardless of
the cost.
Even when people believed in Jesus and seemed to
follow Him, He knew how fickle men’s hearts could be
(John 2:23-25). Jesus warned His followers to not trust in
or seek for the praises of men (Luke 6:26). For if it is the
high opinion of men that we seek, our hearts will not be
disposed to serving only the Lord.
The Lord is looking for people whose hearts are to-
tally and only loyal to Him. It is through such people that
He will do great things (2Chr 16:9) and upon whom He
will pour out His anointing!
Notice what will keep us safe from the fear of man: It
is trust in the Lord (Prov 29:25). When we know the
Lord, when we have sought Him for His will, when we
act in obedience to what He has said because we fully trust
Him – it matters not what men may think.
Our trust must be in the Lord! When we are most con-
cerned with what HE thinks, we will not be caught in the
trap of fearing what people think.
c. Greater compromise begins with the “little
foxes” of smaller compromises (Song 2:15). There is a
common problem among leaders whom God is using in a
significant way. They may begin to feel they are so im-
portant that they no longer need to obey all of God’s prin-
ciples and standards. They might know about them and be
able to teach them; but they no longer believe they per-
sonally need to live by them.
This is what I have termed the “Leadership Exception
Clause”. It is when leaders feel they have become so im-
portant that they no longer need to be humble, or serve, or
be patient with others, or self-sacrificing, etc. In their minds,
they become the “exception” to God’s standards; they see
the pursuit of their selfish and fleshly ways as excusable
because of their “importance” or “success”. They accept the
world’s way of thinking, that somehow their success in min-
istry is because of their great abilities and talents – and they
begin to live as though they are a celebrity!
Because God is faithful to often continue to minister
through them (Rom 11:29), these leaders begin to presume
upon God’s goodness. They slowly begin to adopt atti-
tudes and behaviors that will eventually lead them into
outright sin. This will result in their failure in ministry,
even to the point of destroying their faith (1Tim 1:19) or
searing their conscience (1Tim 4:2).
Even when people believed in
Jesus and seemed to follow
Him, He knew how fickle
men’s hearts could be
(John 2:23-25). Jesus warned
His followers to not trust in or
seek for the praises of men
(Luke 6:26). For if it is the
high opinion of men that we
seek, our hearts will not be
disposed to serving only the
Lord.
It will also lead to a grieving (Eph 4:30) and a quench-
ing (1Thess 5:19) of the Holy Spirit of God. And eventu-
ally it will stop the flow of God’s anointing altogether.
As church leaders, we are called to be an example of
Christ’s character to the Body of Christ. We are not to be
the exception! We must know the Word of God and live
by it, to the very best of our ability. If we do fail, we must
be quick to repent (2Cor 7:10; Rev 3:19).
Let each of us take heed to the warnings of Scripture:
“…and be sure your sin will find you out” (Num 32:23;
see also Galatians 6:7,8; 1 Timothy 5:24,25).
Guarding Your Heart
The Bible exhorts: “Keep your heart with all dili-
gence, for out of it spring the issues of life” (Prov 4:23).
Solomon wrote this verse, perhaps after he had already
destroyed his relationship with God and ruined his king-
ship. We do not know for sure. But the truth of what
Solomon wrote by the Spirit of God still speaks clearly to
us today.
The devil has many “rats” that he would use to tempt
us. Our own flesh also has many misplaced and sinful de-
sires. But these things can come in and pollute the well of
our life only if we open the door to them. They can corrupt
the habitation of our heart – the dwelling place for the
Spirit of God – only if we let them in and give place to
sin.
So what can we do to keep our “well” pure? As we
are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1Cor 6:19,20), there are
some practical steps we can take. Let us look at those now.
2. The Pathway To Purity
a. Live by the standards of God’s Word. The
Psalmist asks a profoundly critical question, and then an-
swers it. “How can a young man cleanse his way? By tak-
ing heed according to Your word” (Ps 119:9).
ACTS • 39
 Through Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus, the Holy
Spirit gives clear directions to all pastors. These three
“Pastoral Epistles” (1 & 2 Timothy and Titus) were writ-
ten to pastors (Timothy and Titus) about pastoral matters.
It is in the letters to Timothy that we read that the
Word of God – not the opinions of men – is our guide for
all we do, say, become and minister (1Tim 4:12-16;
2Tim 2:15-18; 3:16,17).
Jesus speaks of God’s Word being our standard for
life. He states that to do less than following all of the Word
is a failure that risks judgment (Matt 5:17-20). The Word
of God is inspired by the Holy Spirit (2Tim 3:16;
2Pet 1:19-21) and is affirmed by the Holy Spirit (John
14:26; Heb 4:12,13).
Men’s opinions and ideas, no matter how well-in-
tended or attractive, are not our guide for life. They are
also not what we should teach to our congregations about
life in God’s Kingdom. We must be very careful about
the opinions of men (1Cor 2:1-16) – even if we happen to
agree with them. For men, even those whom we respect
and trust, are only that: just men.
It is true that some people can help us. They can teach
us what they have learned. Their knowledge of the Word
of God and their experience may be beneficial to us. But
that goes only so far, and is helpful only as it fully agrees
with the Word of God!
Our lives cannot be purified by people’s opinions or
the latest trends in ministry. We can walk uprightly before
the Lord only as we follow Him and obey His Word.
There is one Holy Spirit and only one source for
God’s eternal Word – the Bible! So read it, meditate on it,
study it, memorize it, obey it, live it, preach it, teach it!
Amen!
b. The Holy Spirit works in prayer. “The spirit of a
man is the lamp of the LORD, searching all the inner
depths of his heart” (Prov 20:27). Our times of prayer are
both a source of blessing and instruction, and a place of
communion. Prayer can also be a powerful weapon when
directed by the Holy Spirit.
Unfortunately, in the busy activities of life, church lead-
ers like you and I often neglect vital times of simply wait-
ing upon the Lord. But it is only as we give time to wait
and listen that the Holy Spirit can truly work in our hearts.
Each of us needs a regular and thorough “heart ex-
amination” by the Holy Spirit. As we pray and then wait
upon the Lord, He can reveal hidden motives, places of
impurity or areas of weakness. In His love for us and for
Christ’s Body, the Holy Spirit wants to convict and shape
us, so that we will take care of the very things that other-
wise will hamper or even destroy our lives and ministries.
Guarding Against Self-Deception
The simple fact that we are active in ministry, know
about the Bible and can teach others does not mean we are
perfect. If anything, those things should make us more
aware of the capacity of the human heart to be deceived
and to make excuses for sin!
Please take a moment even now and read the follow-
ing scriptures:
40 • ACTS
• Proverbs 16:2,25; 28:26
• Jeremiah 17:9,10
• 1 Corinthians 10:12,13
There are many more scriptures that clearly reveal our
need to open our hearts before the Holy Spirit. The Lord
already knows our areas of struggle; we cannot hide them
from Him. But we can deceive ourselves and allow sin,
fleshly desires or brokenness due to sinful behavior to
continue until they bear the fruit of unrighteousness in our
lives.
The Lord is looking for hearts that are kept clean from
sin. He desires that nothing hinder His anointing, or the
fruitfulness of our lives and ministries. As you humbly
show yourself trustworthy to guard your heart from sin
and allow the Holy Spirit to cleanse you from within,
God’s anointing can be poured out without limitation.
Pastor To Pastor: The longer we walk with the
Lord, the easier it is to no longer sense the need for
the shaping work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Sadly, for church leaders this is especially true.
We are so busy learning about and teaching the
Word of God that we begin to assume that we are
also applying it daily to our own lives. We are so in-
tent on praying for our ministry and for others that we
neglect spending time just waiting upon the Lord to
hear from Him for our own sake. We learn to keep
smiling and acting like everything is fine, even if we
are struggling with sin or brokenness on the inside.
Can you admit that this can sometimes be true?
Jesus declared that our righteousness must be a
righteousness of the heart. It must exceed the lim-
ited, outwardly-religious form of the Pharisees
(Matt 5:20).
Please remember that Jesus did not die for
mankind in order to start a new religion. He gave His
life so that we could be restored to God, and then be
continuously transformed more and more into the
image of what man was originally created to be be-
fore sin so brutally marred us (Matt 15:10-20; 23:23-
28; Rom 12:1,2; 2Cor 3:18; 1John 3:1-3). We have
already learned that this is a lifelong process, even
for us as leaders.
If we neglect the inner condition of our heart, it be-
comes far too easy to fall prey to sin. The problems
may start out small, but small compromises always
lead to greater and more destructive ones. That is why
it is essential that we allow the Holy Spirit to work in
our hearts daily, to convict us and stop the problems
before they lead to sin. ■
“Search me, O God…”
We desperately need the Holy Spirit to be a lamp shin-
ing into our soul and spirit. We need Him to reveal the
condition of our hearts, that we may be purified, renewed
and transformed. This is God’s will for our lives!
(Phil 1:6; 2Cor 3:18; Rom 8:29)
As we cooperate with this work of the Spirit in prayer,
we will be grown into “vessels of honor” (2Tim 2:20,21).
Then God can freely pour out the anointing of His Holy
Spirit, releasing more of who He is both in us and through
us to others in ministry.
Let our daily prayer be as David’s: “Search me, O
God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties;
and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in
the way everlasting” (Ps 139:23,24).
c. Walk in obedience. “And we are His witnesses to
these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has
given to those who obey Him” (Acts 5:32).
We have already discussed the place of the Word of
God and the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in the
personal life of the pastor. These are vital keys to living a
life of purity.
However, these can both be made ineffective in our
lives – if we refuse to obey.
We disobey when we ignore God’s commands or sim-
ply neglect to follow through on what the Holy Spirit has
revealed to our heart (Jas 1:21-25). Saul is a clear exam-
ple of this type of failure (see 1 Samuel 15:1-35). David
learned well from Saul’s failures, and wrote about this crit-
ical principle (see Psalm 40:6-8).
Church leaders are often willing to serve and even
sacrifice for the ministry. That is not wrong. But God de-
sires something more important than sacrifice; He requires
our humble and yielded obedience (1Sam 15:22,23).
We have already studied the importance of obedience
to the Lord and His Word in matters of our inner motives,
attitudes and daily behavior. But the work of the Spirit
also requires our obedience in matters of the Lord’s
work – in both what we do, and how we do it.
Aligned Through Obedience
Moses learned an immensely painful lesson regarding
obedience to the leading of God (Num 20:7-13). Moses
was commanded by God to “speak to the rock before their
eyes, and it will yield its water” (v.8). But instead, Moses
struck the rock (v.11). The result was that Moses was not
allowed to enter the Promised Land (v.12; see also
Deuteronomy 31:1,2; 32:48-52). Why would Moses dis-
obey this clear command of the Lord? The children of Is-
rael had faced drought and thirst in the wilderness twice
before (Ex 15:22-26; Ex 17:1-7). On the first occasion,
God led Moses to cast a tree into bitter, undrinkable water,
and the water became sweet. On the second occasion, God
had told Moses to strike a rock, and fresh water came forth.
But this third time, God asked Moses to do something
different. He asked Moses to speak to the rock. But in-
stead, Moses fell back upon a previous method, and struck
the rock. Perhaps Moses was not open to this new way in
which God wanted to move. Maybe Moses was angry or
impatient with the complaining children of Israel. We do
not know for sure. But we do know this: Moses’ disobe-
dience displeased the Lord (Num 20:12).
The important lesson is this: The outcome in this
situation was not as important as the method! The children
of Israel did get their desired water. But God’s measure of
obedience did not consist in the result; rather, it consisted
in his servant completely fulfilling God’s way of
accomplishing His purpose. This is the essence of
obedience!
We are to follow God’s Word and the leading of the
Holy Spirit, even if we do not understand why with our
limited minds (see Isaiah 55:8,9; 1 Corinthians 1:18-25).
God has given us His Holy Spirit to lead and guide us.
We, as the children of God, are called to trust and obey
Him (Rom 8:14).
Please understand that obedience is not a matter of
earning God’s blessing or anointing. However, when we
walk in obedience, we align ourselves with the Lord and
the principles of His Word. As we do so, more of God’s
anointing power is available to us.
This principle was addressed by Paul: “But I discipline
my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have
preached to others, I myself should become disqualified”
(1Cor 9:27). Paul was fully aware that his personal behav-
ior was directly linked to the ministry God had given him.
New Testament Standards
A pastor has two basic aspects to his life: the pri-
vate/personal life and the public/ministry life. God’s ex-
pectation for obedience involves both areas. A pastor’s
life, both personal and public, must be under the discipline
and development of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God.
If a church leader is dedicated to obedience in all areas
of his life, the anointing of God’s Spirit will flow into
every area as well.
It is a mistake to believe that anointing is just for pub-
lic ministry. The Lord is equally concerned for your ef-
fectiveness in family and personal life, as well as how He
might use you in a secular job or other circumstance.
The requirements in the New Testament for church lead-
ers (read 1 Timothy 3:1-7) are also our standards as pastors.
The early Church elders were the pastors of the local
churches. Thus, the guidelines and standards for their per-
sonal and public lives are the standards for pastors today.
The Biblical Order
Too many pastors neglect these standards, especially
as they relate to the needs of their wives and children.
They think it is somehow godly to neglect their families in
order to devote all of their time to ministry. The Word of
God makes it very clear that this is NOT what God has
called pastors to do!
A husband (including a pastor) is to love his wife as
Christ loves the Church, lavishly and sacrificially. A pas-
tor and his wife are to have respect and love for one an-
other, praying for and serving each other. The children are
not to be spoiled, nor treated as servants. Rather, they are
to be nurtured and cherished, raised in a godly and loving
manner. We are to be examples to our children of the char-
acter of Christ and their loving heavenly Father. (See Eph-
esians 5:22-33; 6:1-4; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Peter 3:7.)
Our families are to be a priority, and providing for
them is a responsibility we cannot ignore: “But if anyone
does not provide for his own, and especially for those of
his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than
ACTS • 41
an unbeliever” (1Tim 5:8). The biblical order is: our re-
lationship with God first; our family second; ministry and
other responsibilities after those two.
A pastor’s handling of finances should also be guided
by the principles of God’s Word and the Holy Spirit. The
resources God provides for the pastor personally should be
used to:
• bless the Lord through tithes and offerings;
• bless our family through providing for them;
• bless others as we share out of what God has pro-
vided to us.
All The Help We Need
A pastor’s public ministry is also to be fulfilled in obe-
dience to God’s Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit will help us and often guide us as to what
He would have us do in our specific ministry situations.
As we dedicate and discipline ourselves, listen to
godly counsel, study God’s Word, pray regularly while
following the Holy Spirit’s leading, we will grow and ma-
ture as Christian leaders. As we do, we can expect an ever-
increasing flow of God’s anointing upon our lives and
through our ministry (see Paul’s exhortations to Timothy:
1 Timothy 4:12-16; 6:11,12,20; 2 Timothy 1:6,7,13,14;
2:1,15,16,22-25; 4:1-5). This is God’s desire for us! He
makes available all the help that we need to serve Him
faithfully, and to live according to His ways. But we must
choose to obey!
Pastor To Pastor: If a pastor or church leader vi-
olates or continually ignores these basic principles
concerning their private and public life, the anointing
of God will be quenched. There will be the loss of
fruitfulness both at home and in ministry.
Unless there is full repentance and a genuine
recommitment to God’s purposes, the leader risks de-
struction both personally and in ministry. This de-
struction may take time, but be assured that we all
reap what we sow (Gal 6:7,8).
Sadly, there are gifted and powerfully anointed
leaders in the Church today who begin to lead hypo-
critical lives. In other words, they teach one thing, but
have begun to live another way.
We will all fail at times, and none of us is sinlessly
perfect. But I am not addressing an occasional point
of failure, after which comes quick repentance.
Rather, I am referring to an ongoing, flagrant viola-
tion of the standards of God’s Word in a leader’s per-
sonal life.
God our Father and the name of Jesus Christ are
dishonored by this. People in the world are turned
away from salvation through Christ by this hypocrisy.
Those in the Church or our own families also become
disillusioned with the things of God due to this lack of
integrity in the personal lives of church leaders.
This is wrong, and if your behavior causes an-
other to stumble, Jesus warns of certain judgment
(Luke 17:1,2). God’s judgment upon our works will be
sure (1Cor 3:11-15). ■
42 • ACTS
We need peer relationships. A
large part of our effectiveness as
church leaders will be lost
without healthy relationships
with other leaders. We need one
another, probably more than we
realize or want to admit.
The Lord Of All Of Our Life
The Holy Spirit dwells within us as believers; He
anoints us for the purposes of God to be fulfilled. His de-
sire is to fill our lives totally, not just as it relates to min-
istry. Jesus is to be the Lord of all of our life – of our whole
heart, not just a part (1Pet 3:15). We must obey the Lord
and His Word in all areas of our lives, that He may receive
glory and that we may be effective instruments for His
purposes!
d. We need peer relationships. Pastors and leaders
are often reluctant to reveal things about their lives. Their
insecurities can give rise to jealousy or competition with
one another. Satan plays upon these tendencies in order to
keep the Body of Christ, and especially leaders, divided
and fearful of one another.
A large part of our effectiveness as church leaders will
be lost without healthy relationships with other leaders.
We need one another, probably more than we realize or
want to admit. Believers, including pastors, are family
(brothers and sisters). This is a far more important factor
than what comes from titles, positions, denominational af-
filiation or the size of your church.
The various gifts and roles in the Body of Christ are
given in order for us to work effectively together
(Rom 12:3-8; 1Cor 12). No one of us has what it takes to
be effective in ministry without the partnership of other
believers and leaders. But this kind of unity requires ma-
turity, love, servanthood and humility.
Strong Support
Pastors especially need one another. We must make
room for and pursue relationships with other pastors and
godly leaders. The primary purpose of this is to create mu-
tual accountability. We must have this for our spiritual
health and protection from failure.
Such relationships should allow genuine openness, a
place to share our challenges, difficulties and triumphs in
life and ministry. In this circle of friendship and relation-
ship, we can receive ministry, prayer and biblical counsel.
God intends this kind of relationship for our growth
and maturity: “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens
the countenance of his friend” (Prov 27:17).
These trusted relationships can provide a secure place
to share our fears, concerns and temptations. We can con-
fess our faults and sins (Jas 5:16), and receive ministry
and encouragement.
Every person in ministry needs encouragement. The
devil works hard to tempt leaders to fall into personal fail-
ure or to quit the ministry. Sometimes people – even those
in our own congregations – may misunderstand or oppose
us, or even act hatefully toward us. We need the support of
spiritually strong and trustworthy friends to help us though
such times, in order to emerge as victors through Christ!
Pastor To Pastor: Do not believe the lie that it is
more “spiritual” to not need other people in your life.
Rather, the more mature we become, the more we
will recognize our need for holy relationships in the
Body of Christ. Paul tells us that together we form the
temple of God filled with the Holy Spirit
(1Cor 3:16,17).
These friendship and accountability groups
should be chosen prayerfully and carefully. Not every-
one you know will be a compatible partner for prayer,
nor will everyone have the maturity to be trustworthy.
Find those whom you respect and can trust. Look for
those with the maturity, wisdom and sensitivity to the
Holy Spirit to genuinely speak the truth in love.
Prayer should be the primary focus of your time
in such a group. Also, these groups should involve
fellowship only with people of the same gender – men
with men, women with women.
These vital relationships will keep us “sharpened”
and firmly established on the pathway of growth, pu-
rity and greater anointing! ■
3. Seven Characteristics Of Genuine Anointing
Confusion regarding the nature and purpose of anoint-
ing is often due to a single or short-term exposure to a
ministry event. It might be a powerful sermon, a moving
prayer, or the presence of signs or miracles at a meeting.
This short-term view can lead to misunderstanding in
two ways. First, it is easy to misperceive anointing as en-
thusiasm, talent, gifts, style or skill in ministry. Second,
we might think that a peak moment of supernatural man-
ifestation is the sum purpose of anointing.
Though these miraculous or exciting moments can
truly be the result of the anointing of the Holy Spirit, we
must remember that there is more to anointing than that.
It is important that we develop a long-term view of
anointing. This is the understanding that genuine anoint-
ing will result in the transformed lives of people
(Rom 12:1,2).
By transformed lives, I mean lives that are solidly
grounded in the Word of God and prayer. People living
transformed lives are reaching out to the world around
them through witnessing and loving service. They are re-
sisting sin and the works of the flesh, walking in humility
and repentance. They are active in the Body of Christ;
having discovered their spiritual gifts, they are using them
in ministry. They are becoming more Christ-like all the
time!
These things should be true of a transformed leader,
as well as those to whom an anointed church leader is
ministering.
Truly anointed ministry will be consistently fruitful,
with the ongoing result of lives being saved and discipled
to be followers of Christ.
Anointed ministry is not a pathway to recognition,
wealth or ease. The apostle Paul was a profoundly
anointed man, greatly used of God. Yet he suffered in-
tensely, was poor and often persecuted, spent times in
prison, and was even despised by the church he sought to
serve (2Cor 4:8-15; 7:2-6; 11:23-33). Paul’s life was
ended by the axe of an executioner when he was beheaded
in Rome.
Yet just before his death, Paul declared that his total
reward was a “crown of righteousness, which the Lord,
the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not
to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing”
(2Tim 4:8).
Paul’s life did not amount to much according to the
world’s standards of “success”. Even some Christians
today might not think Paul was much of an apostle.
But Paul’s reputation was that he boldly proclaimed
the Gospel of Jesus Christ (Acts 17:1-6). He was known
as a man of authority and power, even by the demonic
realm (Acts 19:15). He taught and discipled others, and
planted churches. Paul was inspired by the Holy Spirit to
write what became a full one-third of our New Testament
(mostly done while in prison for his faith). And the apos-
tle Paul was a primary agent for spreading the Gospel
throughout the then-known world. Paul was truly
anointed of God, full of the power of the Holy Spirit!
(Col 1:24-29)
We must be clear about the purpose of God’s anoint-
ing. We are not given God’s anointing for our personal
gain or for other people’s entertainment. It is for the pur-
poses of God to be fulfilled! It is to minister in such a way
that the lives of people are transformed by the Word and
the power of God!
Testing Ourselves
We must use discernment in these days, to perceive
what is of God and what is of man. We must discern what
is from the Spirit of God, and what is from a different spirit
(2Cor 11:4). The Bible tells us that, as time advances, the
demonic realm will increasingly seek to lead people astray.
Even Christians will be deceived and led astray, rejecting
what is truly from God (2Tim 3:1-9; 4:3,4).
We must “test the spirits” (1John 4:1-6), because the
devil actively seeks to deceive and destroy people
(2Cor 2:11; 10:1-5; 11:14; 1Pet 5:8). Also, evil men will
seek to use God and spiritual things to serve themselves
(2Cor 11:13-15; Phil 1:15,16; 2Pet 2).
How, then, can we know what is truly the anointing of
the Holy Spirit? And by what measure can we test our-
selves to ensure that we are walking faithfully and obedi-
ently to Christ regarding anointing?
Here are seven characteristics that will be evident in
regard to the anointing of the Holy Spirit.
ACTS • 43
 The genuine anointing of the Holy Spirit:
1) will always glorify Jesus (John 16:14), not men or
even the ministry;
2) will be true to and consistent with the whole coun-
sel of the Word of God (John 14:26), since the Holy Spirit
will never violate God’s written Word;
3) will cause spiritual life to happen in those exposed
to or receiving ministry (John 6:63) – people will be more
committed to Jesus, His Word and His ways;
4) will direct people to Jesus and His salvation, not to
another person or to signs and wonders (John 15:26);
5) will promote peace and unity in the Body of Christ
(1Cor 12:1-14) among those who love the Lord and His
Church more than their own point of view;
6) will have life-transforming power (1Cor 2:4,5;
4:20; 1Thess 1:5), which is the product of anointed
ministry;
7) will produce the character of Christ in people
(Gal 5:16-24; 2Cor 3:18) – this is God’s will for every
Christ-follower!
The presence of these seven important characteristics of
genuine anointing will be a mark of those who minister in
the anointing of the Holy Spirit. These characteristics also
help us to see the need for a long-term view of anointing.
There can be short-term or spontaneous anointing for
a specific moment of ministry. But as shepherds of
Christ’s Body, we are anointed to make disciples and
equip God’s people – long-term work – not just have oc-
casional moments of exciting ministry.
Use the list above to examine your own ministry. As
a church leader, you have a precious and important call to
shepherd the people in Christ’s Body. Christ is our Chief
Shepherd. He has called you as an undershepherd. It will
be to Him that you will give an account for how you ful-
filled His charge to care for His sheep (1Pet 5:1-4).
Can We Receive More?
It is our role to diligently and faithfully follow Christ.
We must apply the standards and principles of God’s Word
to our lives, and constantly grow in our ability to be led by
His Spirit.
The ministry call that God has given you is not your
ministry. It is HIS ministry that He desires to do through
you! Ministry, when done God’s way, will lead to great
fruitfulness (John 15:14-16) and will be accompanied by
His anointing.
We have established that the anointing of the Holy
Spirit is sovereignly appointed by God. It will be consis-
tent with our calling and gifting. This anointing is not sub-
ject to human will, other than our ability to either receive
it or reject it.
If you are like me, you desire more of God’s anoint-
ing in your life and ministry. Your heart’s cry is to be an
effective vessel through which God’s Kingdom purposes
can be fulfilled.
So is it possible to not only receive God’s anointing,
but also grow in the anointing that God gives to us? Can
we receive more than we have now? Let us briefly look at
these questions.
44 • ACTS
There are no shortcuts to
growing in God’s anointing. Nor
is the anointing ours to grab and
use in order to be powerful in
ministry for our own gain.
Remember that God’s power is
not separate from His person.
The anointing is the presence of
the Holy Spirit – which will
always be subject to God’s will
and purpose, not our own.
B. GROWING IN THE ANOINTING
It is the Lord’s desire that you have the anointing of
the Holy Spirit. It is also His desire that you grow in your
ability to live and minister in the Holy Spirit’s anointing.
There are no shortcuts to growing in God’s anointing.
Nor is the anointing ours to grab and use in order to be
powerful in ministry for our own gain. Remember that
God’s power is not separate from His person. The anoint-
ing is the presence of the Holy Spirit – which will always
be subject to God’s will and purpose, not our own.
1. Character And Anointing
It is important to realize that as you grow in the char-
acter of Christ, so also will you grow in anointing. Our
character will either complement and release the anointing
through our lives – or it will block and hinder the work of
the Holy Spirit through us (see Ephesians 4:30; 1 Thessa-
lonians 5:19).
Remember that we are first and foremost God’s sons
and daughters. Christ’s sacrificial work made it possible
for us to be restored to relationship with our Father in
Heaven.
Jesus Christ, as Head of the Church (Col 1:18; 2:19),
has called us and given us spiritual gifts – so that, as sons
and daughters of God, we might serve the Body of Christ
(Eph 4:11-16; 2Tim 1:9). These spiritual gifts and callings
will function fully and correctly only when empowered
and directed by the Holy Spirit (1Cor 12:7 – all gifts op-
erate on this principle).
This is why we can say that all truly anointed min-
istry flows from relationship. Our submitted and growing
relationship with Christ is the basis upon which life-trans-
forming ministry works.
Regardless of your level of maturity or experience
with the Lord, this is still true. Never forget that effective
ministry flows from maintaining a fresh and ever-deep-
ening relationship with Jesus Christ!

Pastor To Pastor: It is all too easy in ministry to
neglect our relationship with the Lord. We might begin
to think that yesterday’s “manna” from Him is suffi-
cient for today. But it is not!
Jesus gives a powerful warning that illustrates
this problem. Read Matthew 7:21-23. The people
being described in this verse are people in the
Church – people with prophetic ministries, deliver-
ance ministries, those who minister in signs and won-
ders, etc.
But these leaders have, at some point along the
way, left their “first love” (Rev 2:1-5). They have be-
come deceived, thinking that maintaining a success-
ful appearance in ministry (having the outward form)
is enough. They might even be able to quote Scrip-
ture passages and use the authority of Jesus’ name.
Yet they are not walking in a genuine, obedient and
fresh relationship with the Lord. They do not know
Him, and He does not know them. Their end is terri-
ble (Matt 7:23). ■
Satan’s Strategy
As we have learned, one of the works of the Spirit in
our lives after salvation is our personal transformation
(Rom 8:29; 2Cor 3:18). It is our lifelong cooperation with
this work – along with our daily obedience to the Word of
God and time in His presence – which develops within us
godly character.
Satan actively resists the growth of godly character in
church leaders. The devil cannot corrupt or steal from us
the Holy Spirit’s anointing and gifts. Rather, the opposite
is true: “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested,
that He might destroy the works of the devil” (1John 3:8;
see also Luke 10:17-20; Romans 8:37-39; 2 Corinthians
10:3-5; Colossians 2:14,15; Hebrews 2:14).
Because the devil has no power to harm or corrupt the
anointing and gifts of the Holy Spirit, his primary target is
Satan: age-old
observer of
human behavior
you! Satan actively seeks to rob, kill and destroy the saints
(John 10:10). One of the ways he does this is by attempt-
ing to undermine godly character, especially in the lead-
ers of the Church.
The devil seeks to corrupt church leaders and make
them unfit for the purposes of God (1Cor 9:24-27; 2Tim
2:19-22). He does this through temptation, deception, fear,
intimidation, division, pride, selfishness – whatever the
sin, and Satan will be the source!
Satan’s temptations usually begin in small ways. He
will begin to appeal to our fleshly desires and selfish na-
ture. The devil has had centuries to observe human be-
havior, and to develop ways to try and make us fall. We do
not need to fear him – but we certainly must be wary and
on our guard at all times! (1 Pet 5:8,9)
Please note that we are most vulnerable to the wiles of
the devil when we neglect our continual and growing re-
lationship with Jesus Christ (1Tim 4:1,2; 2Tim 1:1-9;
Heb 2:1-3). Without nearness to Christ, we will be far
more tempted to make exceptions for ourselves, excuse
lapses in behavior, entertain lustful thoughts – all of which
will lead to sin, deception and failure (Jas 1:13-15).
It is God’s desire that His anointing penetrate our
character. Godly character (or the lack of it) will directly
impact our fruitfulness and effectiveness in ministry. God
wants His anointing to flow in and through our lives, with-
out the hindrance of ungodliness. It is no exaggeration to
say that the anointing is as much about character (ours) as
it is about power (God’s).
Let us take a moment now to learn from the life of the
most anointed man who ever lived.
2. The Master’s Footsteps
Truly Jesus Christ was the most anointed person to
ever walk the earth. He had the Holy Spirit without meas-
ure (John 3:33-35). His unmatched anointing was proph-
esied centuries before His birth (Isa 61:1-3). Jesus
affirmed this prophecy at the beginning of His ministry
(Luke 4:17-20).
Jesus’ ministry on earth confirmed that He was truly
THE Anointed One. A quick look at the Gospel of Luke
(Chapters 4 and 5) reveals His mighty power from the
very beginning of His ministry. Jesus was anointed to:
• Cast out demons (4:33-37, 41);
• Teach with authority (4:22,32);
• Heal the sick (4:38-40;5:15);
• Call people to repentance (5:17-26,31,32);
• Perform signs and wonders (5:4-9);
• Prophetically call people to ministry (5:10,27);
• Develop a core leadership group (5:11);
• Heal a leper, which was astounding for those times
(5:12-15).
This is just a sampling of how Jesus began His earthly
ministry. He accomplished so much more than this. There
is only one Son of God who came to earth, died for us,
then rose again to show that He was truly God!
Jesus is the One who has called us (1Cor 1:26-31). He
has given us all the necessary gifts (Eph 4:11-16) and the
power (John 16:7) to fulfill His will (John 15:16).
ACTS • 45
 Christ commissioned His Church to carry on His work
(Acts 1:4-8). It is only by the power of the Holy Spirit of
God that we can fully accomplish this. This same Spirit
that anointed Jesus has now been poured out upon this
earth, available to all who believe in Jesus Christ for sal-
vation (Rom 8:14-17). Hallelujah!
Walking In Jesus’ Footsteps
God is looking for those who are loyal to Him
(2Chr 16:9). Jesus showed Himself to be loyal to God and
pleasing to Him (Matt 3:17). Jesus was obedient to the Fa-
ther’s will in all things (Heb 10:5-7). Though Jesus was
capable of sin, He never once sinned (Heb 4:15).
Since He is our example in all things, what can we
learn from the life of Jesus Christ in regard to growing in
anointing? Let us walk in His footsteps for a moment to
gain the lessons that will promote growth in our character
and in spiritual matters.
a. Jesus was subject to authority. Jesus chose to be
subject to the authorities that were set over Him. Even as
a young boy, He was submitted to His parents and other
authorities in His community (Luke 2:41-51). And
throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus was continually
submitted to His Father in Heaven.
Let Jesus'
example guide
your growth.
46 • ACTS
The Bible teaches us that we as leaders are also sub-
ject to authority structures in our lives. There are govern-
ments, denominations, churches, jobs – all have structures
of authority.
We may find safety and comfort in having those au-
thorities over us. However, in some instances, we may
not completely agree with them. We might even find
ourselves subject to those who are ungodly, selfish or
tyrannical.
It is likely that during our lifetime we will serve
under both benevolent and seemingly unreasonable au-
thority figures. But whatever the nature of those author-
ity figures, the Word of God instructs us concerning the
importance of submission as a pattern for life. This in-
cludes submission to:
• God (Jas 4:7);
• Governmental authorities (Rom 13:1-7; 1Pet 2:13-17;
also, see note below);
• Leadership in the Body of Christ (1Cor 16:15,16;
1Thess 5:12,13; Heb 13:7,17);
• One another in the Body of Christ (Eph 5:21;
1Pet 5:5);
• Husbands, by their wives (Eph 5:22; Col 3:18);
• Parents, by their children (Eph 6:1-3; Col 3:20);
• Employers, by their employees (Eph 6:5-9; Col 3:22-
4:1; 1Pet 2:18-21).
NOTE: As Christians, we are to bear with our gov-
ernment wherever possible. Jesus did not call for the over-
throw of Rome, even though at the time it oppressed Israel
terribly. But if a government or leader denies people the
liberty to worship and obey God, we must continue to
serve God – even though it may bring persecution
(1Pet 4:12-19).
The only time you may consider not submitting to au-
thorities set over you is if they command you to violate
the Scriptures, or to violate a principle of moral conduct
(i.e., by lying, stealing, sexual misconduct, etc.).
For instance, if a governmental authority commands
you to stop preaching the Gospel or to refrain from speak-
ing in Jesus’ name, Christ’s overriding command compels
you to speak out anyway. The apostles continued to preach
in this manner (Acts 4:1-31; 5:17-42; 8:1-4). If you face
this kind of situation, it will require much caution, wis-
dom and courage. Be led by the Holy Spirit, and God will
be glorified! (Mark 13:9-13)
The Principle Of Submission
Submission is a fundamental principle of the be-
liever’s life, and especially the life of a church leader. We
must submit to God, first and foremost, in everything.
Then we must choose to submit to those in authority over
us – whether in our community, denomination, job or
other situation.
Even if we do not agree with them, like them or re-
spect them, we must remain submitted in our attitude and
actions.
The only exception is if, in their role of authority, they
require you to violate the Word of God or if they are lead-
ing others to do the same.

Pastor To Pastor: There are times when we
might have difficulty with an authority figure. We may
feel that we are not being treated fairly or given ap-
propriate respect or acknowledgment.
Jesus’ example to us in those situations is that He
“made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a
bondservant” (Phil 2:7). Christ did not seek the ap-
proval or praise of men, in part because He knew how
futile it is; people can quickly change their opinions
(John 2:23-25; 6:15,26,60-66).
Instead, Jesus Christ sought the pleasure of His
Father in Heaven. He also chose the role of a servant
(Matt 20:28). Out of His heart of submission and serv-
ice came both salvation for us and great glory for God
(Phil 2:7-11).
As church leaders, we will at times be placed in
positions of authority. In order to effectively lead with
authority, we must first learn to live and walk under
authority! That means we must understand how to
live in the principle of submission.
If you are having a problem with a leader in au-
thority, there are some practical steps to take. First,
pray daily for the person. This will help you to gain
God’s perspective on them. Next, seek the Lord as
to His solution to your conflict. Search the Scriptures,
and wait upon the Lord for His answer.
You may need to go to the person and share your
concerns in a humble manner (Matt 5:23,24). You can
also seek out counsel from those who are wise and
objective, who will help you to resolve the problem
and will not simply side with you.
Finally, keep your own heart right (which includes
no complaining or gossip) and trust God to be your
defender (Ps 5:1; 7:10; 31:2; 59:16,17; etc.). This is
exemplified in the life of David, who chose to honor
God and wait on His timing even though Saul’s be-
havior was difficult and at times ungodly (read
1 Samuel 16-24). ■
God may not be the author of a trial or difficulty in
our life. But He does promise to use every situation in our
life for good; that “good” is the shaping of us into the
image of Christ (Rom 8:28,29).
Sometimes God will use the difficulties that we face
to test our hearts (Ex 20:20; 1Chr 29:17). At other times,
a challenging relationship may force us to mature. Choos-
ing godly responses in the midst of difficulty will always
cause us to grow in character.
If we choose to adopt Christ’s attitude and heart in the
midst of trials, this will often lead to God entrusting us
with a greater measure of His authority, influence and
anointing.
b. Jesus grew into maturity. Jesus gave Himself to a
steady, balanced pattern of growth (Luke 2:52). Though this
verse likely involves Jesus’ youth, it still sets an example for
us of a healthy pattern of personal growth and maturity.
1) “increased in wisdom” – A primary source of wis-
dom is the Word of God. As you read and study it, ask the
Holy Spirit to open your understanding and speak to you
regarding truth (2Tim 2:15).
Jesus said that the Holy Spirit “will teach you all
things, and bring to your remembrance all things I said to
you” (John 14:26). The Spirit of God will quicken (make
alive and relevant) the words of Jesus.
The Holy Spirit will draw from the Word of God which
we have deposited into our lives. We make these deposits
when we read and study the Bible, as well as through lis-
tening to or studying sound biblical teachings and sermons.
As church leaders, we must fully give ourselves to the
study, memorization and application of the Scriptures in
order to grow in wisdom. This reading and studying, how-
ever, is not for making sermons! It is for our personal
growth. Then, from this ever-deepening well of the rich
deposits of God’s Word in our lives, we can draw out those
truths that the Lord quickens in our hearts as we minister
to others. This will hold great personal blessing for us, as
well as for those to whom we minister (1Tim 4:12-16).
2) “increased in…stature” – We have learned that our
bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1Cor 6:12-20;
1Thess 4:1-8). Therefore, we need to be good stewards of
the bodies God has given to us. Our physical health can
have a direct impact upon our ability to be effectively used
by God in ministry.
We are all aware of the obvious abuses of our physi-
cal body that should be avoided: drunkenness or drug
abuse (Eph 5:18); sexual misconduct (1Thess 4:3-5); glut-
tony (1Cor 6:12,13; 9:24-27). Let us instead use our bod-
ies in the service of the Lord!
The Bible does tell us that bodily exercise has less
value than godliness (1Tim 4:8); but exercise still has
some value. However, we should maintain our priorities,
not being more concerned with our physical condition
than with our spiritual condition.
Moderate daily exercise is good for our health. Doing
our best to eat healthy foods is also important. We should
watch over our schedules to ensure that we are getting ad-
equate sleep. These matters can contribute to our effec-
tiveness and longevity, increasing the number of years that
God can use us and receive glory from our service to Him!
3) “increased... in favor with God” – Jesus walked in
obedience to the Father’s will. His entire ministry was to
do what God the Father wanted Him to do (John 5:19,30).
Jesus spoke what God the Father was saying
(John 8:26,28) and performed the works of God (John
5:17; 9:4; 14:10).
Jesus perfectly obeyed the Father’s will, so much so
that He could say, “The Father has not left me alone, for
I always do those things that please Him” (John 8:29; see
also John 4:34; 6:38).
But beyond His obedience, Jesus also walked in a
close and intimate relationship with the Father by the
Spirit. Jesus often went alone to pray (Luke 5:16). The
original Greek verb tense in this verse reveals that spend-
ing time alone in prayer was a regular habit for Jesus.
The obedience of Jesus did not earn God’s love or
favor. But it did ensure that no sin or compromise would
violate His relationship with the Father. This is of pro-
ACTS • 47
found importance for us, for Jesus extends the same prom-
ise of intimate relationship to us!
Jesus promises to “manifest” (reveal) Himself to us as
we walk in obedience to His commands (John 14:21-24).
Our obedience to Christ and His Word, in big things and
small, will help position us spiritually to walk more
closely with our Lord. Our obedience does not earn the
Lord’s favor. But it does allow for an ever-deepening re-
lationship and communion with the Father, the Son and
the Holy Spirit. And it is from this place of intimate rela-
tionship that the anointing of the Holy Spirit will flow in
and through us in an ever-increasing way.
4) “increased… in favor with… men” – This does not
imply that Jesus sought the praise or favorable opinion of
men. Jesus did choose, however, to not act in arrogance,
even though He was truly superior to all men! Instead,
Jesus spoke and acted with love.
Grace And Truth
Jesus modeled for us the perfect balance of God’s
character: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among
us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only be-
gotten of the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14);
“for the law was given through Moses, but grace and
truth came through Jesus Christ” (v.17).
Jesus spent time with sinners (Matt 9:9-13) and with
the religious (Luke 7:36-50). He spoke of God’s love and
purpose to any who would listen. Jesus did not seek men’s
approval or praise, but He did seek to reveal the heart and
the Word of God the Father in every situation.
Jesus taught that God expects us to keep our relation-
ships with one another pure and undefiled. The Bible
clearly reveals a host of fleshly and sinful behaviors that
are unacceptable to God in our relationships, including:
unforgiveness, bitterness, anger, envy, jealously, strife,
gossip, being judgmental, etc. (Matt 5:21-24, 43-48;
6:12,14,15; 7:1-6; 18:21-35; Rom 12:9-21; Gal 5:13-15,
19-21; 1John 2:9,10; 3:10-18 – these are just a few of the
many references that illustrate God’s strong emphasis on
our having right relationship with one another).
We cannot control the attitudes or behavior of others;
but we can decide what our own will be. And oftentimes,
our attitude of “grace and truth” will open the way for rec-
onciliation and peace with others.
When we work toward right relationships, filled with
God’s “grace and truth”, it facilitates unity. Greater unity
in the Body of Christ is a key to releasing the anointing
presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, our churches and
our communities. It is also a witness to the world of the
genuine truth of the Gospel (John 17:20,21).
c. Jesus walked in humility. Without doubt, God the
Son was the most humble of all men. Jesus was fully God, yet
He took on the form of a man and the role of a lowly servant,
that He might lay down His life for us all (Phil 2:7,8). If we
are to walk in His footsteps, we must walk in humility.
Jesus began His ministry by humbling Himself, even
when it did not appear to be necessary. We see this when
Jesus came to John the Baptist as John was baptizing peo-
ple for repentance from sin (Matt 3:13-17).
48 • ACTS
Obviously, Jesus did not need to repent, for He was
without sin (Heb 4:15). John even tried to dissuade Jesus,
knowing that Jesus was sinless and his superior (Matt
3:14). Yet Jesus still requested to be baptized by John:
“Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to ful-
fill all righteousness” (v.15).
Why did Jesus ask to be baptized? This event marked
the inauguration, the beginning, of the ministry of Jesus.
Accordingly, Jesus chose in this act of submission to water
baptism to identify Himself with sinners – people like you
and me.
Jesus, the sinless Son of God, chose to put Himself
alongside sinful humanity in His mission to bring the hope
of salvation to all mankind. In order to “fulfill all right-
eousness”, Jesus acknowledged God’s will that He take
on the burden of humanity’s sins and be their Redeemer
and Savior.
The Servant Of Servants
Jesus knew that His God-appointed mission was to be
a humble servant to humanity (Matt 20:28). He was aware
of it even at twelve years old (Luke 2:41-50). It was af-
firmed again by what took place immediately following
His water baptism.
“When He had been baptized, Jesus came up imme-
diately from the water; and behold, the heavens were
opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending
like a dove and alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice
came from heaven, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son, in
whom I am well pleased’” (Matt 3:16,17).
Three things happened to Jesus as He humbly obeyed
the Father’s will in baptism:
1) “the heavens were opened” (v.16b) – This symbol-
ized God revealing Himself and His purposes in a new and
powerful way through His Son. Jesus was and is God
(Col 1:15,16,19; Heb 1:3). To see Him, hear Him and know
Him is to truly know God. In Jesus, God had revealed
Himself to sinful man in a clearer way than ever before.
2) “the Spirit of God descending” (v.16c ) – Jesus re-
ceived a powerful, unlimited anointing of the Holy Spirit.
This enabled Him to fulfill God’s purpose and will, re-
vealing the heart of God more fully and opening the way
of salvation to all. In receiving the anointing of the Holy
Spirit, Jesus has become the One who baptizes the be-
liever with the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:16).
3) “My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased”
(v.17) – Most assuredly, God spoke in profound revela-
tion to affirm Christ’s identity. But this declaration carries
with it an even deeper meaning.
There are two parts to this statement that are from Old
Testament prophetic passages about the Messiah. “This is
My beloved Son…” is from Psalm 2:7. The Jews histori-
cally accepted this entire Psalm as a prophetic description
of the coming Messiah.
The second part, “in whom I am well pleased,” is
from Isaiah 42:1. This entire chapter of Isaiah, along with
Chapter 43, prophesies of the Messiah as the Suffering
Servant, the Redeemer who will bring God’s justice,
mercy and salvation to all mankind.
 When God spoke those words, He affirmed that truly
Jesus is the long-awaited and prophesied Messiah. He is
the Chosen One of God to be the Savior, King of all kings
and Lord of all lords. This also affirmed that the way to the
eternal, divine crown was only through the cross. The
King of kings was first to be the Servant of all (Phil 2:5-
11). His pathway to the throne was obedience to the Father
(Heb 5:8). Jesus would fulfill the mission that was moti-
vated by love (John 3:16).
Jesus Reached To All
From these events surrounding the baptism of Jesus,
we can learn important lessons regarding anointing.
First, the willing obedience of Jesus to humble Him-
self, even when it was not necessary, released more of
what God intended for Him and desired to do through
Him. Jesus reached to all, without condemnation, offer-
ing the love, forgiveness and salvation of God (John 8:1-
11). He led by example in humility (John 13:1-17),
ultimately revealing God’s heart of love at the cross
(1John 4:9,10).
Pastor To Pastor: Church leader, we too must
walk in humble obedience to God. We must humbly
reach out to all with the Gospel. These truths may
seem obvious. But that does not mean we are doing
them! Humbling ourselves is often a very great chal-
lenge. Humility is directly linked to our character. And
our character is a critical factor for growth and fruit-
fulness in functioning in the anointing of the Holy
Spirit.
God resists the proud; but He gives grace to the
humble. Who of us does not need more of the grace
of God in our lives? It is released to us through our
humility.
This humility is not a groveling or self-hatred de-
signed to impress others with how “spiritual” we are.
The truly humble person does not need to show off
his humility to others. When someone pretends to be
humble, the result is as distasteful as a show of pride.
True humility is a matter of the heart. It is an attitude
of unselfish concern for others. It is a total absence of
arrogance or conceit.
Let me recommend several godly attitudes and
actions that will help us to walk in obedient humility.
It would be wise to make these daily habits:
• Ask forgiveness of those we have hurt or
offended.
• Give forgiveness from our hearts, even when it is
not asked for.
• Love someone who seems to us to be unlovable
or undeserving.
• Ask for help, and accept it.
• Decline titles, positions or privileges whose only
use is to set us “above” others.
• Choose a task of service that brings no notice, no
praise, no honor and no immediate reward.
• Let others receive the credit that might rightfully
be yours. ■
Jesus taught often about humility, knowing our
human tendencies toward pride (Matt 6:1-15; 18:1-4;
20:20-28). If we desire to receive the genuine anoint-
ing of the Holy Spirit – which results in the fruitful-
ness of transformed lives – then we must walk as Jesus
walked.
It is a walk of humble obedience and faithfulness to
God’s revealed will in His Word; it is a walk according
to the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit every day
(Mic 6:8).
d. Jesus understood testing. Immediately following
His baptism, Jesus was “led by the Spirit” into the wilder-
ness to fast, pray and do battle with Satan (Luke 4:1-12).
One might think that after His experience of being bap-
tized and anointed by the Holy Spirit, Jesus would be sent
right into powerful, visible ministry.
But God’s wisdom is far beyond ours (Isa 55:8,9) and
His purposes are designed with an eternal view in mind.
It is clear that Jesus’ testing was according to God’s plan
(Matt 4:1; Mark 1:12,13; Luke 4:1).
There is much to learn from the attitudes adopted by
Jesus during His time of trial and testing. He did not grum-
ble or complain. He did not give in to fear or confusion.
Throughout the trial and with its subsequent victory, Jesus
placed His full trust in God the Father.
Pastor To Pastor: As church leaders, we face
multiple and unique trials, tribulations and tempta-
tions. Being a leader in the Church can send us from
the highest pinnacles of joy to the lowest depths of
frustration and defeat – and oftentimes, that is just
from one Sunday to the next!
Fellow pastor, as a leader in the church, you are
a target for hell’s attacks. You might feel alone in your
struggles, thinking no one else understands. It can
be tempting to think that if you were more mature or
spiritual, you would not go through such difficult
times. You might even be tempted to give up and quit
the ministry. These lies of the devil are meant to dis-
courage you – do not believe them!
The truth is that anyone who attempts to serve
the Lord will face persecution, trials and temptations
(2Tim 3:12) – including Jesus. His life is an example
to us of how we can face and endure trials with an
overriding sense of victory and trust in God.
Jesus knew that God would not leave Him or for-
sake Him. He knew that God is faithful and that His
promises are true. He knew that He could fulfill the
Father’s will, with the power of the Holy Spirit and
God’s help: “He who calls you is faithful, who also
will do it” (1Thess 5:24). I recommend that you mem-
orize this scripture, and think upon it when you face
challenge or difficulty. Then take time to carefully
study the insights and principles from the life of Jesus
[Part III, Section B.2]; these will also help you during
challenging times. ■
Jesus did not question why this was happening to
Him. Rather, Jesus endured the test, trusting that some-
ACTS • 49
thing of God’s purpose was being accomplished both in
and through His life. Jesus found peace and strength in
His submission to God and His trust in the unchanging
power of God’s Word.
Armor That Fits
When God brings us to a new level of responsibility
or releases fresh anointing into our lives, He often allows
a period of testing to follow. Let us look at some of the
reasons why this testing can be so important:
We need to “grow into” the anointing God gives
us. God will stretch us spiritually for our good. But growth
can be uncomfortable; we may be tempted to resent or re-
sist it. However, because God knows what our future
holds, He will seek to prepare us for victory rather than
defeat. This requires us to be strengthened and matured,
and requires that we yield to the process.
We can see a foretype of this principle in the Old Tes-
tament (1Sam 17:38,39). David is about to face the giant,
Goliath. Saul wants David to wear his personal armor. But
David rejects Saul’s armor, declaring, “I cannot walk with
these, for I have not tested them” (v.39).
David could not effectively use armor that did not
quite fit him and that he was unaccustomed to wearing.
Though the armor worked well for Saul, it was untried and
unfamiliar to David.
In the same way, the anointing and gifts that we are
called to walk in should be ours – not someone else’s. It
is too easy to place our confidence and trust in another
person’s gifting and anointing. We might try to emulate
them, even preaching their sermons or mimicking their
style. We try to function in “armor” that is not our own!
Trying to function in someone else’s anointing is a
problem because God has called you. He wants to use you.
The anointing He has given to you is meant for you. You
are a unique vessel whom God desires to use in a particu-
lar way. The assignment He has is for you, and the anoint-
ing He gives you will perfectly fit your assignment.
But it often takes time to understand and “grow into”
your calling, your assignment, and your anointing.
Sometimes, God will use a season of testing or trial to
help you develop and “fit into the armor” God has for
you. When you yield to God in such seasons, He will
cause you to grow so that you will become strong and
capable of functioning in your own “armor” – your
anointing He has given to you – that you might be vic-
torious and fruitful in His calling.
We must learn to draw upon the resources He has
given us. Trials will often reveal to us our inadequacies.
In difficult times, we recognize more than ever how much
we need the Lord and what He alone can provide.
We already learned the importance of having a godly
kind of weakness, one that increases our dependence upon
God (2Cor 12:7-10). This kind of weakness allows us to
be vessels through which the anointing of the Holy Spirit
can flow.
Our Continued Need Of God
When we are filled with God’s anointing, and func-
50 • ACTS
tioning in confidence and faith (which is based upon obe-
dience), there is still a danger of which we need to be
aware. This danger is that, little by little, we can begin to
rely upon ourselves and our accumulated experience and
skill. We then depend less and less upon the Lord or upon
the power of the Holy Spirit. This does not need to hap-
pen; but it can happen if we are not careful.
Jesus said, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He
who abides [remains, tarries, dwells, takes up residence]
in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you
can do nothing” (John 15:5).
Let me emphasize here that the anointing of the Holy
Spirit is all about Jesus. It is not about gifts, power or min-
istry. It is not even about the people to whom we are min-
istering – it is about Jesus! The seven characteristics of
true anointing [listed in Part III, Section A.3] had one
thing in common: They ALL pointed to Jesus.
It is only in Him, by the Spirit of God, that we “live
and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). No matter
how much God is using us, and no matter how much ex-
perience we gain, we must always maintain a simple,
childlike faith. This kind of faith involves humble trust in
and deepening dependence upon the Lord.
Our human nature can lead us toward selfishness and
a feeling of independence from God. But trials and tests
will remind us of our continual need for Him, and for His
grace and touch upon our lives.
We need purifying in order to set us free to receive
more of His anointing. Jesus said, “It is the Spirit who
gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak
to you are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:63).
The presence of the Spirit of God in our lives will
cause our sin nature to be uncomfortable – as it should!
For the Spirit and the flesh (sin nature) are at war with
each other, or “contrary” to one another (Gal 5:16,17; see
also James 4:1-10; 1 Peter 2:11).
God knows the things in our hearts, minds and per-
sonalities that will hinder or block the anointing of His
Holy Spirit. Testing and trials will often act as purging
agents, forcing our weaknesses to the surface in order for
them to be dealt with.
Purging Out Impurities
Artisans who work with silver and gold will tell you
that the ore, when first mined, is full of impurities. It has
to be heated and melted in order to force the impurities to
rise to the surface.
Then the dross (waste material) is skillfully skimmed
from the liquid metal (Prov 25:4). This process is usually
repeated over and over, until the metal is purified and us-
able. Those heating the ore know the exact moment to re-
move the precious metal from the flame, in order to avoid
damaging it.
In a similar fashion, God will use the trials that may
come into our lives to cause the impurities in us to be
“brought to the surface” and exposed. They can then be
recognized – and removed by means of repentance, heal-
ing and deliverance, bringing freedom from the bondages
of our sin nature.

Pastor To Pastor: Church leader, what rises to
the surface in your life when circumstances “heat up”
(intensify) or when you feel pressured? How do you
react, or what do you turn to for relief? Does what
rises to the surface reveal an attitude or behavior that
God may want to cleanse, heal or remove from your
life? Could there be something He might want to
teach you in the midst of your trial or difficulty?
These times when we are confronted with our
weaknesses and impurities are not to be feared. God,
in His love, will use tests, trials and tribulations to
cleanse and shape us. He will also give us revelation,
understanding, sovereign touches of His love and
grace, and insights into His Word. He uses these oc-
casions to stretch our faith and to transform our char-
acter so that we will be more effective and useful
vessels. ■
Wisdom Under Trial
God uses trials to purify and strengthen us. God does
not test us in order to make us feel like failures or because
we are “not good enough”. No! God allows testing and
trials in our lives to increase our strength; for He does not
want us to be weak in the times when we will need
strength (Prov 24:10; Jer 12:5). God uses trials to prepare
us to be able to receive, and be faithful with, more of His
anointing!
This is why James exhorts us to “count it all joy when
you fall into various trials” (Jas 1:2). The Scriptures go on
to encourage us to patiently endure the trial (vs.3,4),
knowing and trusting that our faithful God will use it for
our good and His glory. This is His promise to us
(Rom 8:28,29).
James goes on to counsel us to also ask for wisdom
(Jas 1:5-8) – and, with faith, expect to hear from God.
Why do we need this wisdom? Is it just to escape the trial?
No, but instead it is to give us discernment and under-
standing so that, regardless of the source of the trial, we
will know what to do while God is at work in us.
It is Satan who is the author of
evil, the one who seeks to steal,
kill and destroy... The devil can-
not ruin or limit our gifts or
anointing directly. Those are
under the sovereign rule of God
alone. But Satan will tempt us in
the area of our character and try
to attack, deceive, pollute or dis-
qualify us as God’s instruments.
Need For A Proven History
God desires to give us more of His Spirit. But that
often requires that we have the strength of character and
the maturity to not waste or misuse His gifts. You would
not give a car to a five-year-old child, no matter how much
they felt they were ready, would you? They would not
have the maturity to handle the responsibility. They first
need to grow up physically, mentally and emotionally.
This same principle is true in the Kingdom of God.
Look at Paul’s instructions to Timothy about the appoint-
ing of elders and deacons (1Tim 3:1-13). It is commend-
able and good if someone wants to be a leader. But they
must have a proven history of godly behavior and charac-
ter, and maturity in life. Specifically, Paul instructs Timo-
thy that a new convert should not be appointed as an elder,
for new converts do not yet have that kind of maturity.
Standing Up Under Temptation
Our God is perfect in holiness. He will never commit
an act of evil, nor will God ever tempt us – the objects of
His love – to do evil or sin (Job 34:10-12; Jas 1:13-18).
It is Satan who is the author of evil, the one who seeks
to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). The devil cannot
ruin or limit our gifts or anointing directly. Those are
under the sovereign rule of God alone. But Satan will
tempt us in the area of our character. He will try to attack,
deceive, pollute or disqualify us as God’s instruments. If
he can persuade us to choose sinful behavior or attitudes,
then the work of God through our lives can be hindered or
destroyed through our own personal failure.
What then should we do since our “adversary the
devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he
may devour” (1Pet 5:8)?
We should deal with temptation the same way that
Jesus did in the wilderness (Luke 4:3-12). The methods to
resist the works of the devil are summarized for us also in
James 4:7-10. Read that portion of Scripture, and let us
study it together for a moment.
“Submit to God” – obey and trust the Lord. Obedi-
ence to His Word will keep us away from places or situa-
tions of temptation. Also, run to Him first in prayer when
you are being tempted; do not try to resist temptation with-
out God’s help.
“Resist the devil” – use the Word of God and your
spiritual prayer language (“tongues” – 1 Corinthians 12
and 14); join in prayer with someone you trust.
“Draw near to God” – bring your entire situation to
God in prayer and allow Him to shine the light of His
Spirit and His Word into your heart. Be patient and wait
upon Him to do what only He can do. Resist the tempta-
tion to take matters into your own hands and try to resolve
or fix the situation yourself.
“Cleanse your hands”, “purify your hearts”,
“humble yourselves” – as the Holy Spirit reveals or
convicts you of areas of bondage, sin and weakness in
your life, bring those to God in prayer with a humble and
repentant heart; confess your failings and your need for
God’s cleansing work, His forgiveness, healing and
deliverance.
ACTS • 51
 Grace To Be Overcomers
In addition, there is another powerful list of instruc-
tions to help us know how to engage in spiritual battles.
Read Ephesians 6:10-18. This instructs us to put on our
armor, take up the Sword of the Spirit (God’s Word) and
be “bathed” in prayer. Then, after having done all you can,
stand firm in your faith, trust and submission to God. You
can resist the devil and his works, and he must flee! God
will give you the victory today!
The enemy does not give up. He will try again, since
his goal is your destruction. This was true even with Jesus.
Though He faced a great trial in the wilderness – and won
a sound victory – it was not His final encounter with the
enemy (see Luke 4:13; see also Matthew 16:23;
Luke 22:1-6). But with every temptation, Jesus did not
give in to sin.
Remember that God is completely for you
(Rom 8:31). He has even promised that He will not allow
you to be tempted beyond what you can resist; He will al-
ways provide a way of escape (1Cor 10:13; 2Pet 2:9).
Let us rejoice, therefore, that we have a King who
intimately knows and understands our struggles. This
just and loving Savior freely invites us to receive His
strength, power and grace to be overcomers like Him
(Heb 4:14-16).
We must pursue a lifelong pattern of reliance upon
the power of the Holy Spirit.
Do not give in!
When Jesus returned from forty days in the wilder- As we have learned, our great challenge as we mature
ness, the Bible records the following: “Then Jesus re- in the things of God is how to become more and more de-
turned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of pendent upon God and the power of the Holy Spirit. It is
Him went out through all the surrounding region” too easy to begin to depend upon our growing gifts and
(Luke 4:14). abilities. We may have some success, so we back away
Jesus came to His home town of Nazareth. This was from concerted prayer or study of the Bible. We may not
the place where He had grown up and where He went to feel as spiritually hungry, or as desperate to see God work
the synagogue for the Sabbath (Luke 4:16-30). It was in people’s lives or our community. Our trust is then
there that He stood up to read, choosing from the whole of placed more on our accumulated experience and skill, and
Scripture this passage from Isaiah 61:1,2: “‘The Spirit of less on the anointing power of the Spirit of God.
the LORD is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to In these instances, difficulties and trials can bring us
preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the back to our knees, back to our place of dependency upon
brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and re- the Lord for all that we need in life and ministry.
covery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are We can see, in the life of Jesus, times of great miracles
oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD’” and ministry, and times of great trial and opposition. But
(Luke 4:18,19). either way, the sinless Son of God was totally dependent
Jesus declared that His Messianic work was to be ac- upon the enabling power of God’s Spirit.
complished by “the Spirit of the Lord”. Jesus was Jesus chose to take on the limitations of a human body
anointed and empowered by the Holy Spirit. It was only and to empty Himself of His divine privileges (Phil 2:7).
by this anointing that He could do all that He propheti- Because of this, Jesus allowed himself to be fully de-
cally declared regarding His ministry. pendent upon the Father’s will and the enabling power of
the Holy Spirit. This carried Him through life on this earth,
Full Dependence Upon The Lord through His ministry, even through His death and subse-
In this passage, Jesus is setting the perfect pattern for quent glorious resurrection!
how we can carry out the Father’s will. As we know, Jesus If Jesus, God the Son, needed the power of the anoint-
came only to do the Father’s will, not His own. Likewise, ing of the Holy Spirit to fulfill the Father’s will – how
you and I are called to do the Father’s will and not our much more so do you and I?
own. We are not called to carry out “our program”, re-
gardless of how good we think it might be. Instead, we Trials: God’s Instruments To Shape Us
are called, authorized and empowered to carry out the will God will use trials in our lives. He is not punishing us
of One Person – God. And to do God’s will, we need God’s in these times. Just the opposite is true. Because God
power! loves us, He disciplines us (Heb 12:3-11). Because we are
52 • ACTS
truly His sons and daughters (Rom 8:14-16), He does what
is necessary to shape us and cause us to grow into His
image (2Cor 3:18). Because we are fellow-heirs with
Christ (Rom 8:17), and are destined to rule and reign with
Him (2Tim 2:12; Rev 5:10), we will go through testing to
prepare us for what is to come (Rom 8:18; 2Cor 4:17).
Let us not fear or flee from the trials and difficulties
that will come to each of us. But instead, as James writes,
“count it all joy when you fall into various trials” (Jas
1:2). For these are the very instruments that God will use
to shape, transform and prepare us for His use and glory!
3. Pursuit Of The Person Of God
As we have seen, there are many principles and les-
sons to be learned from the life and ministry of Jesus. Un-
questionably, no one has ever taught like Him (Luke 4:32).
Jesus performed signs, wonders and miracles throughout
His ministry – so many, in fact, that John the apostle de-
clares that they were too numerous to record! (John 21:25)
Since Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and
forever (Heb 13:8), the works that He did during His
earthly ministry are still being done today. These great
works and miracles are being done by the Holy Spirit,
through the members of Christ’s Body. This means that
the ministry Jesus began while on earth, He has now given
to His followers to continue (Acts 1:1-8).
We have not, of course, been given His mission to die
on the cross for the sins of humanity. That was Christ’s
mission alone. Eternal salvation is only through His sac-
rifice (Acts 4:12). There is nothing we can do to add to
that great and finished work. We are only to receive it!
Pastor To Pastor: Please understand that Jesus’
ministry was not cut short by His crucifixion. The pri-
mary focus of Jesus’ mission here on earth was His
death on the cross for the salvation of mankind. This
salvation was gloriously accomplished through His
death, and subsequent resurrection (John 19:30; Eph
1:17-23; Phil 2:5-11; Heb 9:11-15).
So we can say with confidence that no one killed
or murdered Jesus against His will. Rather, Christ’s
death for our sins was part of God’s foreordained pur-
pose for Him (John 1:29; 12:27; 19:5-11; Acts 2:22-
24,33). Jesus willingly received and fully
accomplished this mission. ■
Greater Works
Those of us who have received salvation through
Jesus Christ have been given the ministry of Jesus to
carry forward, even “to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
We have been given the Holy Spirit to enable us to fulfill
this blessed command.
Jesus also said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who
believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and
greater works than these he will do, because I go to My
Father” (John 14:12). In this verse, we see clearly that
Jesus has called us to carry on His works.
However, we must understand that this does not mean
our works will somehow be superior to Christ’s. Nor can
we ever become Christ’s equal in any way (Matt 10:24,25;
John 13:16). For only Jesus was and is God; and only
Jesus is One in essence with God the Father and the Holy
Spirit (John 10:30).
When Jesus said “greater works”, He was referring to
the fact that we will do works that are greater in number
and scope. The length of the ministry of Jesus was ap-
proximately three and a half years. Our ministry can span
our entire lifetime.
The earthly ministry of Jesus was geographically con-
fined to a small area and to a relatively small number of
people. This is limited when compared to the millions of
Christ-followers and our calling to go to “the end of the
earth” (Acts 1:8). We are to “preach the Gospel to every
creature” (Mark 16:15) and “make disciples of all the na-
tions” (Matt 28:19). So those are the “greater works” that
we will do!
Good News For All
It has been the plan in the heart of Father God to bring
salvation to all people. Through the death and resurrec-
tion of Jesus, this is now possible. But this wonderful
Good News must be told to all the nations (Matt 24:14;
John 4:35). How will they know unless someone tells
them? (Rom 10:14,15)
It is the assignment of every believer to make the
Good News of salvation through Christ known to all peo-
ple. But in order to accomplish this, we need the power
and enablement of God’s Holy Spirit!
By the power of the Holy Spirit, “He will convict the
world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment”
(John 16:7-11). It is also by the Holy Spirit that signs and
wonders were done by the first apostles (Acts 2:43; 5:12;
etc.). These same Holy Spirit-empowered signs and won-
ders have continued through the Church Age, and are
available to us today (1Cor 12:9,10).
Most pastors and church leaders today hunger to see
more of God’s evident power through their ministries. We
desire to see the sick healed, demons cast out, the dead
raised – and more – all to the glory of Jesus!
These works are certainly available to us today by the
power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus did them in His ministry
by the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:22). And He has promised that
we will also do them (John 14:12) by the same Holy Spirit
(1Cor 12:11).
We can and should expect – and believe in faith for –
God to confirm the preaching of the Gospel with miracle
power through our ministries (Mark 16:19,20). This He
will do by the power of the Holy Spirit, according to His
will. Hallelujah!
Signs Point To God
Here we must bring a balancing and cautionary per-
spective. The focus or goal of our ministry should never be
miracles, signs and wonders. Nor should those things be-
come our heart’s desire.
It is true that God is doing many marvelous and mirac-
ulous things in the world today. But what is the purpose
of these mighty signs, wonders and miracles?
ACTS • 53
 A “sign” or “wonder” is an abnormal or very unusual
event or occurrence (please read more about signs in the
special insert below). A sign is designed by God to get our
attention. For instance, a burning bush in the desert may
not be that unusual. However, when that bush continues to
have a burning appearance for a lengthy time but is not
consumed, it certainly gains our attention and notice! (See
Exodus 3:1-3.)
But a sign is more than just an unusual phenomenon.
The primary purpose of signs or miracles is that they are
designed to point to something. Whatever the sign or
wonder is pointing to will determine its validity.
All signs and wonders done by the Holy Spirit will
always and in every case point people to God the Fa-
ther or God the Son – Jesus. The sign itself is not the
“end destination” or the focal point. Instead, the sign
should lead a person to the destination.
God got Moses’ attention with a burning bush that was
not consumed. But once God had Moses’ attention, He
began to reveal Himself (Ex 3:4-6) and His purpose for
His people (Ex 3:7-4:17).
Which was more important? God making a bush burn
continuously, or what He revealed about Himself and His
purpose?
Is The Gospel Clearly Preached?
The basis for judging signs and wonders, prophetic
words, visions, and similar spiritual occurrences is not
whether they are unusual or supernatural. Even the devil
can use deception to perform limited supernatural signs
and wonders (2Cor 11:14). Satan’s works in this regard
will increase as we enter the end times (Matt 24:23-25;
2Thess 2:8-10; Rev 13:13,14; 16:14; 19:20).
The demonic realm will attempt to produce counter-
feit miracles in order to deceive people, leading them
away from the truth of the Gospel and Jesus as the only
way of salvation. But even this negative example shows
that signs and wonders can gain the attention of people.

A BRIEF LOOK AT SIGNS AND WONDERS

SIGNS, WONDERS AND MIRACLES
FROM GOD ARE GOOD, AND ARE SOME-
THING WE SHOULD EXPECT TO SEE
TODAY. They did not cease with the
death of the first apostles (c. A.D.
100). Nor did they stop when the
New Testament Scriptures were
“canonized” (the term used to sig-
nify an official recognition by
Church leadership of the apostolic
writings as inspired by God –
c. A.D. 300).
The Holy Spirit is still today
doing the works that Jesus began al-
most 2,000 years ago! Jesus is the
“same yesterday, today, and for-
ever” (Heb 13:8). And He is the One
who has called us to carry on with
His works (John 14:12), by the
power of the Holy Spirit.
However, as exciting as signs,
wonders and miracles are, there is a
limit to what they can accomplish.
We have established that signs exist
to capture people’s attention. And
they should always direct people to
Jesus.
This is critical, because signs
and wonders do not cause “saving
faith” to grow in a person’s heart.
Faith built only on a sign or miracle
will tend to be shallow and not last-
ing. (For an example of this, read
John 6, particularly verses 14, 15,
26-35, 60-64.)
Ultimately, to enter into salva-
54 • ACTS
tion, a person must choose to re-
spond to the truth of Jesus Christ –
who He is and what He did for them
on the cross. They must believe in
Him, repent from their sins, and re-
ceive Him as their Lord and Savior.
The First Place Belongs To Jesus
Jesus, early in His ministry, un-
derstood the wicked and shallow na-
ture of the human heart (Jer 17:9).
Jesus did not entrust or “commit”
Himself to the people who were fol-
lowing Him (John 2:23-25). He dis-
cerned that they had only a
superficial faith in Him, arising
“when they saw the signs which He
did” (v.23).
Miracles, signs and wonders
done by the power of the Holy Spirit
are legitimate and valid. God uses
them to get people’s attention. But
lasting faith must be built on some-
thing – Someone! – far more eternal
and solid: Jesus Christ!
A faith that is built upon the Per-
son of Christ and His sacrifice for
their sins is a solid, lasting, saving
faith. This is the kind of life-trans-
forming faith that will remain strong
and grow, in spite of adversity and
trial. This is the kind of faith that can
last a lifetime – and into eternity!
The Holy Spirit does use signs,
wonders and miracles to capture
people’s attention. But He does so in
order to lead them to an opportunity
to choose to believe on Christ for
salvation. Let us look at two exam-
ples of this.
In the first example (John 9:1-
41), Jesus heals a man who was born
blind. The man is healed, but then
Jesus confronts him with the oppor-
tunity to believe in Him (9:35-38).
In the second example
(Acts 13:4-12), Paul confronts a
wicked sorcerer. Under the anointing
of the Holy Spirit, Paul speaks a
prophetic judgment upon the sor-
cerer (vs.9-11). A proconsul who
sees this demonstration of power is
convinced that what Paul has taught
him about Christ is true (v.12).
You will notice that in both
cases, the faith in Christ was not
based on the sign itself. It was based
upon the question of whether or not
they believed in Jesus Christ
(John 9:35-38; Acts 13:12). The sign
or wonder simply acted to validate
the truth and power of the Gospel of
Jesus Christ.
Church leader, signs and won-
ders should have a place in your
ministry. But the first place in all
things belongs to Jesus; everything
else should simply and very clearly
point people to Him.
Jesus is their Savior! Jesus is
their Lord! All praise and glory to
Him! 
 Thus, the true basis for judging signs and wonders by
the Holy Spirit is this: Does this occurrence glorify Jesus?
Does it direct people to Him? Does it move people to re-
spond to Him – to love, worship, obey and follow Jesus
Christ? Is the Gospel being clearly preached, so that the
unsaved have an opportunity to repent? Is the name of
Jesus being lifted up above all other names? These are the
questions we must answer as we seek discernment and un-
derstanding on this issue of signs and wonders.
No Other Gods
This brings us to one of the key principles of walk-
ing, ministering and growing in the anointing of the Holy
Spirit:
Are we seeking God for what He will do for us?
Or are we seeking God for who He is, and seeking
Him out of our desire for relationship with Him –
desiring only to know Him and to make Him
known?
We have established that the power of God is not sep-
arate from the person of God. God’s anointing is God’s
Spirit working in and through a yielded human vessel.
But what happens when someone loses their focus
upon God, or misdirects their hunger for spiritual things
away from Him? We can see the disastrous results of this
among the Jewish religious leaders in Jesus’ day.
Jesus confronts these religious leaders who desired to
kill Him (John 5:16-18). They were men of deep and pro-
found learning, but had lost their way in spite of their
knowledge.
Jesus rebukes them for having lost sight of the very
point of all their learning: “You search the Scriptures, for
in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they
which testify of Me. But you are not willing to come to Me
that you may have life” (John 5:39,40).
The Jewish leaders knew the Scriptures. But they had
missed the Living Word – Jesus, who was standing right
in front of them! (John 1:1-5,14)
Later, Jesus again rebuked the religious elite for al-
ways seeking a sign, though they had already witnessed
many such signs (Matt 12:38,39). And Jesus rebuked them
a third time when addressing the blindness of the Phar-
isees, scribes and lawyers who were asking for yet another
sign (Matt 16:1-4).
Then toward the end of Jesus’ ministry, when the
Pharisees’ willful blindness to the truth remained un-
changed, Jesus pronounced judgment upon them
(Matt 23:37-39).
What was the point that Jesus was trying to make?
There are many lessons to be learned from Jesus’ en-
counters with the religious leaders of His day. But essen-
tially, Jesus was pointing out that the Jews were seeking
for what they wanted God to do for them – but not for
God Himself!
This is one of the reasons they rejected Jesus as the
Messiah. He would not give them what they wanted,
which was that He would right then begin a Kingdom on
earth where the Pharisees, scribes and lawyers would be
among the privileged leaders. They desired power, influ-
God is righteously jealous for
our love and devotion. He alone
in all the universe is worthy of
our love and worship; God is our
creator and we owe our exis-
tence as a living human race to
Him; and He gave His Son to re-
deem us – the objects of His per-
fect love – from sin and death
(Col 2:11-15; 1John 4:9,10).
ence and material wealth. They had become comfortable
with their positions, titles of respect and social status
(Matt 6:2,5, 6,16-18; 23:2-7; John 12:42,43; etc.). They
had missed the point entirely, thinking only of themselves.
Jesus, of course, condemned this attitude of self-service
and religious pride.
The religious leaders had forgotten a fundamental
truth about the God whom they said they served. “You
shall have no other gods before Me… For I, the LORD
your God, am a jealous God” (Ex 20:3,5).
God is righteously jealous for our love and devotion.
First, because He alone in all the universe is worthy of our
love and worship. Second, because God is our creator and
we owe our existence as a living human race to Him
(Gen 1:26-28; 2:18-25; John 1:3). Third, because He gave
His Son to redeem us – the objects of His perfect love –
from sin and death (Col 2:11-15; 1John 4:9,10).
This truth is affirmed again in the New Testament:
“The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously” (Jas 4:5).
This statement is made during a rebuke to early Christians
who were attempting to use God to fulfill their selfish de-
sires (Jas 4:1-4). They are called “adulterers and adulter-
esses” (v.4) because they were betraying their committed
and holy relationship with their Savior in order to pursue
the fleshly, passing pleasures of this world.
But even then, God did not reject them. Rather, He
yearned jealously for them, for He alone truly loved them.
God will receive back and forgive the truly repentant adul-
terer (Jas 4:6-10).
It is clear, then, that we are not to violate our love and
service to God by becoming enamored with any other
things.
Avoid Being Drawn Away
In our role as pastors and leaders in the Body of
Christ, there is to be only One who holds our loyalty, al-
legiance, desire and hope – Jesus!
• Not signs, wonders or miracles
• Not a big ministry, or those who have one
ACTS • 55
 • Not gifts, callings, abilities, positions or titles
• Not even His blessings
It has been said that the greatest obstacles for believ-
ers are often the blessings that God gives to His people.
Why would that be so? Because our attention and desires
can easily be moved away from God, and instead become
fixed on His blessings. Our hearts are deceitfully selfish
(Jer 17:9). Though we may be saved, we are still very
prone to sin (1John 1:8).
Pastor To Pastor: Friend and church leader,
please understand that it is not wrong to want the
anointing presence of the Holy Spirit poured out upon
you and your ministry. It is God’s great desire for you
to have this!
But if we are not wise and cautious, our hearts
can be seduced. In our desire for success in ministry,
we can begin to focus on what God can do for us, in-
stead of on our love for Him for who He is alone.
Slowly and subtly, we can be drawn away from a
righteous pursuit of the Person of God to instead
hungering for what He can do for us. This is pre-
cisely what happened to the Pharisees. They substi-
tuted their knowledge about God for a genuine,
submitted relationship with God. They knew a lot
about the Scriptures and religious matters, but they
did not know Him. They did not desire God Himself,
but sought what He could do for them.
Some leaders today, instead of being drawn to
God, become drawn to the supernatural phenomena
that often accompany the moving of the Holy Spirit.
This is like someone who wants to marry a rich man
or woman because of the riches they possess. They
desire the person’s wealth and what it can do for
them more than they desire the person. What a terri-
ble and selfish attitude!
When we covet supernatural experiences, our
love for God Himself can become less than pure –
even cold (Matt 24:12). This is similar to the attitude
revealed in Simon the sorcerer, who sought the mir-
acle power of the Holy Spirit for his own gain
(Acts 8:9-24).
Our God is jealous for us. He desires our loyalty,
our love and our devotion because He loves us with
an everlasting love (Rom 5:5; 1John 3:1). Those who
have set their whole heart upon the Lord are the kind
of people for which He looks. It is through devoted
children of His that He can manifest Himself in pow-
erful ways (Dan 11:32). ■
Our First Calling
Many times in Scripture, we are exhorted to seek the
“face” of God (2Chr 7:14; Hos 5:15; Ps 27:8; etc.). The
face of God as spoken of in Scripture represents God’s
Person, His heart.
However, nowhere in Scripture are we exhorted to
seek the “hand” of God. The “hand” of God, or the “hand
of the Lord”, refers to His works, His deeds, His bless-
ings. We can see the results of God’s working (His hand)
56 • ACTS
through what He does. And it is not wrong to want to see
those results in and through our ministry.
But please understand: It is when we seek God’s face
(His heart, Himself) that we discover the will of God and
what He desires to do.
As we follow and obey His will, then we will see
God’s mighty hand by His Spirit at work! Seeking God,
and our relationship with Him, must always be our first
priority. It is from this place that everything of worth in
ministry will flow.
True Sons, True Servants
Jesus said, “If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me;
and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone
serves Me, him My Father will honor” (John 12:26).
Notice that in this verse, Jesus is in the first position.
Jesus is the Lord of the Church (Eph 1:22); we are to fol-
low Him. He is not following us around in ministry to
bless what we ask Him to bless.
Our first calling as church leaders is a daily relation-
ship of seeking the Lord – knowing Him, loving Him,
worshipping Him, communing with Him (Ps 63:1-8). It is
from this place that we will truly discover His will and
plans for our lives, our ministries and all else.
It is God’s desire to pour out His blessing, His anoint-
ing, His signs and wonders upon His Church, and upon
you as His called leader.
But can He trust you with that? Do you have the ma-
turity, the strength of character and the wisdom to stay
loyal only to Him?
God promises to release more of His “hand” if our
hearts belong solely to Him. “For the eyes of the LORD
run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Him-
self strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal [fully
committed, obedient] to Him” (2Chr 16:9).
He jealously wants our hearts with a righteous jeal-
ousy, for He loves us with His everlasting love
(Rom 8:31-39).
Pastor To Pastor: God absolutely and uncondi-
tionally loves you! Regardless of your imperfections,
He loves you deeply, personally and eternally. You
were not created for ministry service alone.
If God had wanted more servants, He would have
simply made more angels. But He made you because
He wanted sons and daughters who walk in relation-
ship with Him. The angels are unable to have this
kind of relationship with their Creator – only we hu-
mans can experience this (Heb 2:14-18; 1Pet 1:12).
Christ did not give His life so you could be in the
ministry. He died to be the sacrifice for your sins, in
order that you could be restored to a relationship to
God.
We are not just servants of the Lord. We are the
friends of Christ (John 15:15) and co-heirs with Him
(Rom 8:17). We are sons and daughters of the Living
God (Rom 8:15,16). We have the privilege and op-
portunity to serve the Lord and His Body out of our
love and gratitude for Him! ■
 Daily In His Presence
The anointing of the Holy Spirit is directly related to
our constant priority of seeking the Person of God. King
David, whom the Lord referred to as “a man after My
[God’s] own heart” (Acts 13:22), gives us direction for re-
lationship with God: “When you said, ‘Seek my face,’ my
heart said to you, ‘Your face, LORD, I will seek’” (Ps 27:8).
To “seek” means to earnestly, diligently, persistently
look for and search until the object of our seeking is found.
Jesus spoke of this principle as well (Matt 6:33; 13:44-46;
Luke 11:9-13).
Seeking for God costs time and energy. We may have
to give up some comfort, privilege or activities. But it is
through seeking God that we come to know Him. Out of
that close relationship, we begin to know His will for our
lives and ministries. As we walk in obedience to His will,
He releases His anointing upon and through us.
Let us always place as our first priority a daily time in
the Lord’s presence. It is there that we receive that which
is truly eternal in substance, which will not diminish or
fade (Luke 10:38-42). Decide today, and every day: “Your
face, Lord, will I seek”.
Review
As we conclude this section, “Growing In The Anoint-
ing”, please remember that each of us can and should
grow in the anointing power of the Holy Spirit. This in-
cludes you (as the pastor and leader) – and the people you
lead!
You have responsibilities as an undershepherd
(1Pet 5:2-4) of God’s people. These include ensuring that
every person you lead is both growing in their under-
standing of God’s Word and growing in their ability to
minister in the power of the Holy Spirit. This is the scrip-
tural pattern for healthy growth in the Body of Christ (see
Ephesians 4:11-16, especially verse 12).
The pathway to growing in anointing is perhaps some-
what different than you may have expected. Let us review
the key principles vital to growth in anointing:
• Purity
• Godly weakness
• Humility
• Submission to authority
• Right response to testing
• A heart for God alone
• Walking and growing in daily relationship with God
Jesus was our example of every one of these charac-
teristics. He was the most anointed Man to ever walk the
earth. He invites us to walk in His footsteps on the path-
way of God’s anointing. As we do, we will receive a full
measure of everything we need in order to fulfill the
Lord’s high calling for us!
C. RECEIVING HIS ANOINTING
I was part of the ministry team at a Pastors’ Confer-
ence in Cuba. Near the end of the conference, there was
time given for testimonies from those attending. An eld-
erly, rather frail gentleman, who was obviously blind, was
helped along as he slowly came to the platform.
This elder brother began his testimony by sharing that
he had served the Lord all of his life; the members of his
family were also serving the Lord. He informed the
crowd about the many churches he had planted over his
lifetime, including the six churches he had planted within
that year!
He talked about losing his eyesight and how chal-
lenging that was, including the need to have someone read
the Bible to him every day.
Then he paused for a moment, and bowed his head.
The auditorium of more than 1,000 pastors became silent.
Suddenly, the man raised his hands in a gesture of triumph
and shouted, “I have lost my sight, but not the fire!” The
entire assembly erupted into cheers and worship to God.
What would keep a 76-year-old man “on fire” – and
still preaching, teaching, evangelizing and planting
churches? Only the anointing of the Holy Spirit and the
man’s dedication to be used by God for His purposes and
glory!
Treasure In A Clay Pot
My hope is that God will use me effectively every day
of my life until He takes me to my heavenly home. But it
does not take long in ministry to realize that serving in the
ministry can be wearying and exhausting at every level –
physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
This is not all bad, for we are not to be selfish with
the gifts, power and anointing of God. We are to continu-
ally give away what God has given to us. Neither are we
to be lazy or undisciplined in ministry (Luke 9:62;
Eccl 9:10; Col 3:23); rather we are to give every effort to
the cause of Christ.
However, if we become too tired, “burned out” or ex-
hausted, it can potentially create serious problems. God
knows that we are finite, and limited in our strength. So
He does offer to us His strength, wisdom, grace, abilities
and power in order for us to do His will – and we desper-
ately need those things. For without Him we can do noth-
ing (John 15:5).
Paul understood this need when he wrote: “But we
have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of
the power may be of God and not of us” (2Cor 4:7). As an
experienced and widely accomplished apostle of Christ,
Paul knew that the power and drive to do the will of God
is not within man’s natural abilities or capacity. Rather,
“this treasure” within the “clay pot” of our lives – which
gives us all that we need – is the anointing of the Holy
Spirit! (Read 2 Corinthians 3:1-4:18.)
He Supplies Our Need
The requirements of ministry (or just living as a Chris-
tian in today’s world) can deplete us of God’s power and
strength. Jesus Himself needed to be refreshed spiritually,
receiving ministry from God’s Spirit.
A study of the Gospels will reveal the many times that
Jesus drew away to lonely places to pray (for example,
Luke 4:42; 5:16; 6:12). After these times of prayer, Jesus
would work powerfully, make important decisions in His
ministry, be equipped to endure trials, etc.
ACTS • 57
 What is being revealed to us by Jesus’ example?
To answer this question, let us look at two Scripture
passages.
1. Be Filled!
“And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipa-
tion; but be filled with the Spirit” (Eph 5:18).
There are three significant principles that come from
the original Greek language structure for the phrase, “be
filled with the Spirit”.
a. This phrase is in the present tense form. This
means that it is happening now and continually. In other
words, “be filled with the Spirit” means we are to be con-
tinually filled with the Holy Spirit. This is wonderful
news! To be continually filled means that we can be filled
not just once, but over and over again!
We receive the Holy Spirit at salvation (Rom 8:15,16;
Eph 1:13-15). This is a general anointing given to all be-
lievers (1John 2:20,27). When we are sovereignly called
for ministry assignments, God makes additional anoint-
ing available to us that will help us function fruitfully in
that assignment.
God gives to us of His Person, power and gifts. But as
we give this away in ministry, we can be drained or spir-
itually depleted. So God has made it possible for us to be
filled with His Holy Spirit again and again, as often as
we need!
This pattern is clearly seen in the ministry of the early
Church. The Book of Acts records some of these instances
for us:
• Peter was filled to preach the Gospel and defend the
faith (Acts 4:8).
• The disciples received boldness and power to
preach the Gospel, in spite of persecution (Acts 4:31).
• Paul was initially filled with the Holy Spirit
(Acts 9:17), then filled again as he was about to confront
demonic powers (Acts 13:9).
• Following a confrontation with religious leaders, the
disciples were filled again with the Holy Spirit
(Acts 13:42-52).
• Stephen was filled, and filled again (Acts 6:5; 7:55).
• Barnabas was also refilled (Acts 13:52).
This repeated filling with the Holy Spirit brought
great power to the preaching and teaching of these disci-
ples. Their bold declarations of the Gospel were also ac-
companied by signs and wonders (Acts 5:12).
Some may believe that such miracles occurred only
through the original apostles. But the Book of Acts reveals
that signs and wonders by the Holy Spirit were being done
through whomever He chose.
For example: Stephen, who had been appointed to
wait on tables (Acts 6:8); and “the brethren” (Acts 14:1-
7). Paul writes about the fact that the Holy Spirit can move
miraculously through anyone He might choose to em-
power and direct (see 1 Corinthians 12:1-11).
Increase Through Giving
There is an added benefit to being continuously filled
with the Holy Spirit. As we “freely receive and freely
58 • ACTS
give” (Matt 10:8), our capacity to receive more of His
anointing is increased! This principle of God’s Kingdom
is true in finances, time, service and other areas – the more
we give, the more we receive.
We are growing every time we minister, giving away
the Holy Spirit’s life and power to others. This means we
can then receive more, and thus have more to give away.
This blessed process of receiving and giving, receiv-
ing and giving, is a benefit to all concerned. God is
blessed and glorified because His will is being fulfilled.
The members of Christ’s Body are blessed, and growing
into strong disciples (Eph 6:12-16). You, as a minister,
are being blessed – as a powerful and faithful servant of
the Lord, fulfilling His calling and growing in your ca-
pacity to both give in ministry and receive more from the
Holy Spirit!
All of this is dependent upon being filled with the
Holy Spirit – continually. This is a separate process from
receiving the sovereign gift of the Holy Spirit at salvation,
or then being baptized with the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14-17;
19:1-7). We are to live in a way that we are continually
filled with the Holy Spirit, again and again!
b. The phrase “be filled with the Spirit” (Eph 5:18)
is also set in the imperative mood. This means that this
phrase is a command, not a suggestion! God knows far
better than we do how much we need His power and abil-
ity. Truly, we need the Holy Spirit in order to live as a vic-
torious overcomer in daily life. But even more so, we need
an overflowing presence of His Spirit in order to be fruit-
ful and effective in ministry.
When God makes a command, it is always:
• righteous and reasonable
• for His glory
• for our good
• made possible by His provision!
God, by His sovereign will, has made possible for us
the unlimited provision of the Holy Spirit. And He com-
mands that we be continually filled with His divine pro-
vision of the Holy Spirit. Hallelujah!
This is a command that we should be rushing to obey
every day, and at every moment of need.
c. This phrase is also written in the passive voice.
This means that these fresh and continual fillings of the
Holy Spirit cannot be achieved by our efforts. We cannot
earn them or work to be worthy to receive them. They are
a gift of God to us. We can only open our hearts and re-
ceive what He desires to give us.
However, we must be positioned to receive them!
Herein is a primary key of living the Spirit-filled life and
having a Spirit-filled ministry.
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to
always be filled with the Holy Spirit, moving in gifts, wis-
dom, power, etc. – while others do not seem to function
this way?
The way to position yourself to be continually filled
with God’s Holy Spirit is to yield. This means that every-
thing in your life must be submitted and surrendered to
God – your will, your plans, your weaknesses and, most
especially, your strengths. When you do this, you are
yielding your entire being to the Holy Spirit and to His
desires for you.
Yielding our lives to the Holy Spirit puts us in a spir-
itual position to more readily and freely receive what He
desires to give us.
However, please note that yielding our lives to the
Holy Spirit is not the same thing as being possessed.
Demons are the only ones who try to take over a person’s
will and personality (Luke 8:29-38a). Leaders in cults and
false religions may also try to control or subjugate other
people, because they are functioning in demonic deception.
We are not called to be religious “puppets” without a
mind or the ability to make choices. Instead, we are called
to a relationship of love, trust and cooperation with the
presence of the Holy Spirit living within us. He is there to
work within us, to transform and purify us; and to work
through us as ministering vessels for the Lord God. When
we yield our lives to God and His work in this way, we
will be positioned to receive fresh and continuous fillings
of anointing.
Pastor To Pastor: As sons of our heavenly Fa-
ther, we are to be led by the Holy Spirit (Rom 8:14).
The word “led” in this verse is present participle.
This means that we are to be continuously led.
This continuous leading of the Holy Spirit in-
cludes, but is not limited to, a formal knowledge of
the commands and principles of Scripture – and our
obedience to them. This is a primary way to be led
by the Holy Spirit, since God has already revealed to
us in His Word how we are to live day to day.
But being continuously led by the Holy Spirit also
involves developing sensitivity to His promptings,
which can come at any time. The Holy Spirit may
prompt you about your ministry, your personal life,
someone else’s point of need, or many other things.
He is ever-present, and with you to help guide you in
this life. The Holy Spirit will also help you know how
to cooperate with Him in ministering to the needs of
others.
If a prompting is from the Holy Spirit, it will al-
ways lead you to obey the commands and moral
standards of God’s written Word. If you feel led by the
Holy Spirit to make a major change or to do some-
thing out of the ordinary for you, it is wise to follow
the exhortations of Scripture and seek out spiritually
mature counselors (Prov 11:14; 24:6). They can help
to confirm that what you are sensing is indeed from
the Holy Spirit – or indicate that it might not be. This
will help guard you against error or deception. ■
Summary
We have learned three important principles regarding
the biblical phrase, “be filled with the Spirit” (Eph 5:18).
• We can be continually filled, beyond just a one-time
experience.
• We must be continually filled, as God has com-
manded us.
• We can receive God’s continual filling and anoint-
ing of the Holy Spirit only through Him – it is a gift from
Him that we position ourselves to receive by yielding our
lives to Him.
2. Seek God!
You may be asking yourself right now, “What must I
do to receive these fresh fillings (anointings) of the Holy
Spirit of God? Do I go to a special place? Say particular
words? Seek out someone to pray for me? Must I go to
special meetings?”
This sacred Scripture passage reveals how and when
we can receive more of the anointing of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus said this: “So I say to you, ask, and it will be given
to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be
opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he
who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he
give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him
a serpent instead of a fish? Or if he asks for an egg, will
he offer him a scorpion? If you then, being evil, know how
to give good gifts to your children, how much more will
your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who
ask Him!” (Luke 11:9-13)
In this passage, Jesus gives us very simple direction
for how we can be freshly filled, again and again, with the
Holy Spirit.
a. We are to ask, seek, knock. God is the Giver of
the Holy Spirit (v.13). The admonition in this verse to pur-
sue the Lord – ask, seek, knock – is written in present
tense in the original Greek language.
This word structure means to keep doing it, even now.
We are to keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking –
until we have received an answer from our loving Lord.
We are promised, “everyone who asks receives, and
he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be
opened” (v.10). Hallelujah! God delights in pouring out
His Spirit upon us; ours is but to ask of Him.
Jesus used three examples of pursuing the Holy Spirit
– asking, seeking, knocking. He is not revealing three sep-
arate mechanisms or methods. Rather, He is exhorting us
to pursue God in earnest, and with sincerity.
You will notice that there is no mention of begging or
of trying to prove your worthiness to receive. These ef-
forts are not necessary; in fact, they are attitudes that can
actually block our ability to simply receive by faith as
God’s beloved sons and daughters.
b. The Holy Spirit is for sons and daughters. Those
who are sons and daughters of God, made so by spiritual
rebirth (John 1:12,13; 3:5-8), do not have to beg their lov-
ing heavenly Father for His promised blessings.
Jesus illustrates this great truth with the analogy of
how we as parents would respond to our own children
(vs.11,12). Then Jesus goes on to compare our parental
role with God’s place as our heavenly Father (v.13).
Jesus then contrasts our limited, sinful nature with
God’s unlimited perfection and love. If we, as “evil” (sin-
ful) parents, would not deny our children good gifts, why
would we think our perfect and holy heavenly Father
would do that to His children? (For more about God’s
ACTS • 59
heart toward us, read Romans 5:6-10; 8:31-39; 1 John 3:1;
4:10,12-19).
We are not beggars who must plead and beg with a
reluctant God. We are sons and daughters of the Most
High God, and He delights in filling us with His Holy
Spirit!
Truly, we should ask with humility and a total surren-
der of our lives. Yet we, as His sons and daughters, may
“therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may
obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need”
(Heb 4:16; see also Ephesians 3:12; Hebrews 10:19-22).
c. What can prevent us from receiving? There are
problems that can hinder us from being continually filled
with the Holy Spirit.
1) The presence of sin or compromise in our lives
(Rom 6:12-14; 1Cor 5:6,7). The Bible teaches that we will
never be sinlessly perfect in this life (1John 1:8). We will
all have occasional points of failure, for which we must
quickly repent and receive God’s forgiveness.
However, we are not to indulge in ongoing compro-
mise with the world, the flesh and the devil. The Bible
refers to such behavior as the “practice” of sin (Gal 5:21).
This means to engage in sin as a regular habit or to per-
form it repeatedly.
Such ongoing sin will disqualify us from being fit ves-
sels for the Master’s use (1Cor 9:24-27; 2Tim 2:19-21).
Our God is a holy God and calls us to also be holy, by the
power of His Spirit and His grace working within us (1Pet
1:13-19).
The Spirit, who is holy (Rom 1:4), desires to work
through instruments that are also holy.
2) The presence of self-serving motives, such as ego
or pride (Matt 7:21-23; Phil 2:3,4; 1Tim 6:3-5). We have
already studied the sin of pride and its dangers. As church
leaders, we are to be like Jesus, who is “meek” and
“lowly” (Matt 11:29).
God will not anoint those who are serving with the
wrong motives (Jas 4:6). We must allow our hearts to be
searched by the Holy Spirit (Prov 16:2) and cleansed of
the desire for our own glory. Here are some Bible verses
for you to read and mediate upon: 2 Chronicles 16:9;
Proverbs 13:10; 16:5,18; Matthew 23:8-14; Galatians
5:20; Philippians 1:15,16; 1 Timothy 3:6; James 3:14-4:4.
3) A lack of full surrender of your entire life (Rom
12:1,2; Gal 2:20). I have already written about the impor-
tance of yielding your entire life to God. However, let me
point out that the anointing of the Holy Spirit is given so
that the yielded servant of God will have power in and for
service. If we desire God’s power for any reason other
than to serve Him and others, we cannot expect His
anointing in our lives.
Our yielded service is to be directed by God, for He
knows best how to use us in Christ’s Body. We do not nec-
essarily get to choose what we will do for God. Our hearts
should desire to do whatever He might ask of us.
Our position of complete yieldedness is necessary in
order to receive power from God and know His will. Then
we must choose to obey Him. This is how we can be gen-
uinely fruitful in ministry.
60 • ACTS
Deadly
barrier
4) A faith that is weak or lacking (Heb 11:6;
Jas 1:6). “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the
Word of God” (Rom 10:17). We must learn from the
Scriptures what God has made available for us, or our
faith will be weak.
As you have gone through this biblical study of
anointing, you have learned that the power of the Holy
Spirit is available to you today. And not just a little bit,
like a drop of water in the desert. The Holy Spirit is to
flow through you like RIVERS! (John 7:37-39)
God is a loving Father, who delights in giving of His
life and power to His children. But we need to ask in faith,
trusting in Him to answer our heart’s cry (Ps 138:3).
If you are worried that your faith is weak or small,
then remember what Jesus said regarding faith: “…if you
have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain,
‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing
will be impossible for you” (Matt 17:20b).
Jesus disclosed that our faith can be small, but still ef-
fective – IF it is directed toward God! We are not to put
our faith in ourselves, or in the amount of faith we have.
We are to put our faith in God and in His Word. For what
He says, He will do! We can trust that He will fulfill His
Word, and we can thus put our faith fully in Him.
Therefore, strengthen your faith in the Word of God.
Trust what is revealed in the Word about the One who is
your Creator, your Savior, your King! Go to Him often,
seek His face – and He will answer you (Jer 29:11-13).
5) A lack of spiritual hunger (Ps 63:1,2; 84:1,2;
Matt 5:6; John 6:35,48; 7:37-39). God always responds to
a spiritual hunger for more of Him.
A lack of spiritual hunger can be caused by many
things, such as:
• Tragedy, sorrow or death (as in the loss of a family
member) causing an emotional or spiritual dullness.
 • Discouragement, failure or weariness, making you
feel hopeless or unmotivated to seek the Lord.
• Anger, bitterness or unforgiveness toward others –
including God or even yourself – quenching the desire for
God.
• Pleasures and distractions of this world, or laziness
and complacency, blocking or even destroying a righteous
hunger for more of God.
Life on earth can be difficult and full of challenges to
overcome. But we can be encouraged that God has pro-
vided ways to get beyond any sorrow, heartache or fail-
ure that we may have experienced. God’s healing and
delivering power, His love and forgiveness, His mercy and
grace – and His anointing – are ours if we will but come
to Him.
The apostle Paul gives us insight into how he moved
beyond the things that could potentially hinder his pur-
suit of and hunger for God. He wrote to the Philippians
(3:12-14): “Not that I have already attained, or am al-
ready perfected…” (v.12a). Paul humbly recognized his
weakness and failures.
“…but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which
Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me…” (v.12b). Paul
knew that he couldn’t give up; he must go on, for the sake
of the Gospel.
“Brethren, I do not count myself to have appre-
hended…” (v.13a). Paul did not understand everything,
including all that had happened to him.
“…but one thing I do, forgetting those things which
are behind…” (v.13b) Paul made a conscious decision to
let go of the pain or hurt, success or failure – all that was
past.
“…and reaching forward to those things which are
ahead…” (v.13c). Paul chose to let go of the past, and in-
stead reach toward God’s purposes for him.
“I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward
call of God in Christ Jesus” (v.14). Paul decided to keep
pursuing God, and God’s will, no matter what.
Through every kind of adversity and trial, every joy
and victory, Paul followed the Lord with all of his heart.
Breaking up the fallow ground of our hearts (Hos 10:12)
is not always a short or easy process. But if we will bring
ourselves openly to God – the One who made us, who
saved us, who loves us – we can receive a renewed heart
and a fresh hunger for the Lord (Ezek 36:26,27).
d. We must wait upon the Lord. Scripture exhorts us
often to “wait upon the Lord” (Ps 25:5; 27:14; 37:7,9,34;
Isa 30:18; 40:31; Lam 3:25,26; etc). This is an important
principle of the Christian life. There are always blessings
that come from waiting upon the Lord.
However, it is not always in our nature to wait. We
become impatient, fearful or forgetful. Our busy lives,
the work of ministry, pressure to make a decision – many
things press in upon us and make demands upon our
time.
But there is a simple, yet painful, truth in life: you will
always make time for what is truly important to you.
Sadly, we do not always realize what is truly important
until it is too late.
Pastor To Pastor: It is important to take time oc-
casionally to evaluate our priorities, look at our lives
closely, and consider all of our activities. Then we
should lay all of that before the Lord, consider His
Word, and decide whether our priorities are in align-
ment with His.
If the scriptural exhortation to take time to “wait
upon the Lord” is not high on our list, it should be. For
this is often the only way we will hear Him speak to
us. ■
Drawing Nearer To God
In order to receive more of the Holy Spirit in our lives,
we must ask. And then we must wait upon the Lord.
As we wait, we are far more likely to hear His “still
small voice” (1Ki 19:12). Waiting allows time for the
Holy Spirit to deal with our hearts and lives, preparing us
to receive more of His presence and power. He may re-
veal a blockage or hindrance to our receiving; He may
convict us; He may instruct or direct us; and more.
It is often during times of patiently waiting that the
work of transformation is taking place in our lives. As we
are transformed, we will receive; as we receive more of
His Spirit, we will, of course, be more effective and fruit-
ful in service.
Another great benefit of waiting on the Lord is that
those times in His presence draw us nearer and nearer to
Him. We come to know Him in a far deeper and more per-
sonal way.
As you wait upon the Lord, you may want to be silent
(Ps 46:10). Or you can quietly pray with your spiritual lan-
guage, or softly worship (1Cor 14:2,15). But remember,
the primary purpose of waiting is to listen and receive.
That is often best done in a still and quiet manner.
In your hunger for more of God, your prayers may
rise in volume. That is not necessarily wrong. But just re-
member that you do not have to prove your desire or wor-
thiness with the volume of your prayers; neither do you
need to loudly beseech the Lord in order for Him to hear
and answer.
Instead, trust in His promise: “…how much more will
your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who
ask Him” (Luke 11:13).
Do Not Fear
Some might fear that waiting upon the Lord for more
of the Holy Spirit might instead bring a demon spirit. This
is not possible! First, demons can enter in only where they
are specifically invited, or by a person’s participation in
satanic activities such as witchcraft. If you are praying to
the Lord and your desire is for Him alone, no demon can
suddenly “slip in” upon you. You need not fear this!
The demonic realm is aware that as you receive more
of the Holy Spirit, you will walk in God’s power in a
greater way. This means that your boldness and authority
in spiritual matters will naturally increase. So the devil
may try to tempt or distract you away from time spent
seeking the Lord.
ACTS • 61

You are a saint who has been
bought and washed with the
blood of Jesus Christ. Satan and
his demons have no power over
you that you do not directly give
them. The devil was defeated at
the cross (Col 2:14,15).
But remember: You are a saint who has been bought
and washed with the blood of Jesus Christ. Satan and his
demons have no power over you that you do not directly
give them. The devil was defeated at the cross
(Col 2:14,15). So take up your armor and sword
(Eph 6:10-18) and stand firm in the Spirit as you draw
near to God (Jas 4:7,8).
e. Receive the Holy Spirit’s anointing by faith. We
are God’s children and the heirs of His promises
(Rom 8:17; 2Cor 1:20; Gal 3:26). This includes the prom-
ise of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38,39). We have learned that
this is not just a one-time filling, but is a continual and
fresh filling of His presence and power in our lives
(Eph 5:18). What God has promised, He will fulfill – so
just ask Him!
So let us ask – and keep on asking, seeking and
knocking until we have received (Luke 11:9,10). God
wants you to have the Holy Spirit in fullness (Luke 11:13).
Just open your heart and believe in Him and His desire to
fill you – as you wait patiently upon Him (Heb 11:6).
Praying for fresh filling can be a daily occurrence, be-
cause we are to be continually filled! We need His power
and presence, moment by moment, in all that we do.
Just Receive
We receive by faith, not by our feelings. We are seek-
ing an impartation of the presence of the Holy Spirit, not
an emotional experience. As you ask, you may take any
physical position you feel comfortable with – sitting,
kneeling, standing, or lying prostrate. You can be in your
prayer closet, kitchen, bedroom, church or outdoors. The
position and location are not as important as your open
heart and your desire to receive.
When you ask for a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit,
use whatever words are in your heart. There is not a right
or wrong way to pray to God. He wants to hear from you,
just as you are.
Your asking might take a form like this: “Come Holy
Spirit, I open my heart to receive more of You. I yield my
heart and my life to You. I ask You to freshly fill me. Fill
my life with Your presence. Fill my mouth with praises to
God. Fill my ministry with Your power, that I might be a
useful vessel for God…” Use your own words and open
your heart to God. Pray and receive! Be filled, in Jesus’
Name! Hallelujah!
62 • ACTS
Conclusion
My brothers and sisters, fellow workers in God’s
fields, and partners in ministry service for the Gospel –
you and I have a high calling indeed! We have the honor
of serving Christ’s beloved Body, those “not redeemed
with corruptible things, like silver or gold… but with the
precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and
without spot” (1Pet 1:18,19).
This is a calling that we cannot – and must not – at-
tempt to fulfill in our own strength. Thanks be to God, He
has given us all that we need to be truly fruitful, truly ef-
fective, and truly glorifying to Him!
We began this study with God’s Word:
“‘Not by might nor by power,
but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of hosts”
(Zech 4:6)
God, through the ages, has already done such great
and marvelous things. But there is so much more that He
has promised to do, which is yet to be fulfilled!
There are “greater works” to be done – miracles,
signs and wonders to the glory of Jesus (John 14:12). And
God wants to do them through you! The Lord desires the
bold proclamation of the Gospel, the conversion of the lost
to Christ and establishment of His Church. He desires this
for YOUR church, YOUR city, YOUR nation! Glory to
God!
God is continually looking for those who will fully
yield their own lives to His will. He is searching for those
whose hearts are loyal to Him, through whom He might
show Himself strong. He answers those who desire Him
above all else, and who will let their spiritual hunger for
Him grow – those who will boldly say, “Here am I! Send
me” (Is 6:8).
There is only one way to completely fulfill God’s call
and will for your life and ministry – that is through the
anointing of the Holy Spirit! It is by the power of the Holy
Spirit that you will receive the transformation, gifts and
abilities necessary to be and do all that God would desire
of you. And it is yours for the asking!
God will give you abundantly of His Spirit; believe
this, receive His anointing, walk in it and minister with it.
As you give away the life and power of the Holy Spirit in
service to others, He will have more to pour both into and
through you.
May the Lord bless you and open your spiritual eyes
to understand His truth. May you receive His grace and
help to obey Him in all things. May He abundantly anoint
you and your ministry, that the lives of others might be
transformed and become a glory to Him who died to save
them. And May God receive all the praise, all the glory, all
the honor that is due Him from your life and ministry as
you walk and grow in the anointing of His Holy Spirit. I
ask this before the Father, in the strong and mighty name
of Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen! 
Editor’s Note: Please see the next page for instruc-
tions on how you may access the next ACTS Magazine
teaching more quickly on World MAP’s website at
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ACTS • 63
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and will save you the cost of a postage stamp! You will receive your copy of The Shepherd’s Staff as soon
as possible (but because the mail can be slow at times, please allow at least 6 months for The Shepherd’s
Staff to arrive to you). Thank you.
For private circulation