Which Came First

We sometimes hear the old question, "Which came first, the chicken or the egg?" If you belive the Bible, the answer is easy and the question is silly. God created chickens and gave them the ability to reproduce through eggs.

I woke up today thinking about "which came first for a Christian," baptism in water or Holy Spirit? Actually, there is a process, but many who think they are born again Chrisitans were either "still born" or lack the fullness of the Spirit that produces overcoming strength, maturity to "be fruitful and multiply," and a Christian life-style described as "the fruit of the Spirit" in Galatians 5.

Still born "christians" have attempted to become Christians (or be produced) without the work of the Creator. Jesus says we cannot even come to Him unless the Father draws us (John 6:44), which is the work of the Holy Spirit. He does it through conviction of sin (John 16:8). Unfortunately, many have "accepted Christ as their personal Savior" because someone scared them enough or simply told them it was the right thing to do. Both of these are example of "works" (of men) and not the gift of God by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9) [conviction of Holy Spirit].

When Peter preached in Acts 2, the people were convicted and asked what to do. He said, "Repent, .... be baptized .... and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." This gift is the Helper who will teach us, remind us, guide us into truth (that will set us free), speak to us and glorify Christ (John 14:16-17, 26; 16:7-14). Without this Gift one remains immature (weak), impotent (fruitless) and deformed (lacking the "fruit of the Spirit").

Many people are told that the Holy Spirit is only part of the birth process, not the process that matures one into being able to walk in the "fruit of the Spirit" and be prolific producers of more disciples. These people have experienced the cleansing water of baptism, but not the maturing gift of Holy Spirit.

Holy Spirit came first to convict and last to mature. He is part of the whole process and works until we go home to be with the Lord.