Are Christians Truly Born of God and Filled with the Holy Spirit?

The recent visit to a church in an English-speaking country left a poignant impression: most Christians appear to be incredibly worldly. They are selfish, rude, and often unfriendly. This observation, while personal, prompts a deeper exploration into the core teachings of Christianity and the experiences of its adherents.

The Bible provides us with clear insights into what it means to be a Christian and the attributes that should characterize believers. Jesus Christ stated in John 1:12, "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name" (KJV).

Transformed by the Holy Spirit

Nevertheless, the question remains: Do believers truly receive this power after being baptized in the Holy Spirit, as per Acts 1:5 and John 3:5-6? The Bible instructs us on the fruits of the Spirit, which include love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). How can one assert that they believe in and follow Jesus without being part of these transformational qualities?

Understanding Spiritual Gifts

It is crucial to understand that the existence of spiritual gifts does not equate to their automatic possession. Paul emphasizes this in his letter to the Corinthians, stating, "There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit" (1 Corinthians 12:4). These gifts, while significant, are not the definitive proof of one's Christian identity.

The true proof lies in genuine faith and obedience to Christ's teachings (John 3:18). This belief and following are the hallmarks of a true believer, not the possession of certain spiritual gifts. As Peter declares in Acts 16:16-18, one must be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ to receive the Holy Spirit. The focus should not be on endorsing or rejecting these gifts but on understanding and embodying the complete message of Jesus Christ.

Reflection on Modern Christianity and Spiritual Gifts

Why do many individuals who claim to speak in tongues and possess these gifts exhibit so few of the fruits of the Spirit? It is a consistent observation that while some believers do indeed demonstrate transformation, others often fail to mirror the peaceful, joyful, and gentle characteristics associated with the Holy Spirit.

It is important to ask whether the spiritual gifts, as described in texts such as 1 Corinthians 12:7-10 and Mark 16:16-18, are truly manifest in a way that is visible and comprehensible in the lives of modern Christians. The authenticity and physical evidence of these gifts should be self-evident in the daily lives of believers, rather than needing constant reference to text or specific spiritual authorities.

Is it possible that a God who dwells only within books and requires continual proof is not a God of depth and connection? Or is it the reality that many Christians are searching for a more rational, adult-oriented understanding of their faith? Whatever the case, the belief and manifestation of Jesus' teachings are essential.

On the other hand, it is incredibly uplifting to know that there are believers who are transformed and partake in God's love. These individuals share a unique connection with the divine and serve as living testimonies to the power of the Holy Spirit. In contrast, non-believers and atheists may be limited in their perspectives and experiences due to their focus on individual desires and human limitations.

The Unity of the Body of Christ

Paul's letter to the Corinthians further explains the purpose of these gifts: "For the body is one and hath many members, and all the members of the body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For in one Spirit were we all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether bond or free; and were all made to drink of one Spirit" (1 Corinthians 12:12-13).

While each member has unique gifts and roles, the body of Christ is unified. The goal is not for each member to have their own glory, but to work together in harmony. Just as the human body functions best when all parts work together, the Church of Christ needs the diverse gifts of its members to function as a cohesive unit.

There is no limit to God's capacity to bestow gifts, and they should never be used for personal boasting. Instead, they should be used to serve and benefit others (1 Corinthians 12:7-11, 31-32).

Conclusion

To summarize, the essence of a Christian's life lies in genuine faith and obedience to Christ's teachings. The transformation of a believer should be evident through the manifestation of the fruits of the Spirit. While spiritual gifts are a significant aspect of the Christian experience, they should not be the sole focus. The unity of the Church and the collaborative use of these gifts serve to create a stronger, more effective testimony of faith.

Let us strive for a deeper understanding of our faith, one that reflects true transformation and love, as exemplified by the life of Jesus Christ.