The outpouring of the Holy Spirit occurred three times with three different groups of believers: the Jewish believers at Pentecost, the Samaritan believers, and the Gentile believers. Notably, Peter was present for all three of these outpourings of the Holy Spirit. Each time the Holy Spirit was poured out, signs accompanied it. As such, the signs were a signal to the Jews that this was the work of God.
The Pentecost outpouring was a sign to the Jews that the prophecy of Joel 2 was partially fulfilled, and they were indeed in the last days. The outpouring in Samaria and at Cornelius’ home was a sign to the Jews that the Gospel was for the Gentiles and the Jews. The Holy Spirit came upon Jews, Samaritans, and Romans, demonstrating the oneness of the church (Ephesians 4:4-6).
These three outpourings were limited and temporary. They were limited to three particular groups. Outside of these three events, no other groups in the New Testament had such an experience. There is no Biblical support that the Holy Spirit is continuously being poured out again and again. It was prophesied in the Old Testament and partially fulfilled in the days following the resurrection of Christ. The Holy Spirit was poured out three specific times upon three distinct people groups. However, those ministries of the Spirit associated with His outpouring continue.
- For indeed Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; - 1 Corinthians 1:22
The Pentecost outpouring was a sign to the Jews that the prophecy of Joel 2 was partially fulfilled, and they were indeed in the last days. The outpouring in Samaria and at Cornelius’ home was a sign to the Jews that the Gospel was for the Gentiles and the Jews. The Holy Spirit came upon Jews, Samaritans, and Romans, demonstrating the oneness of the church (Ephesians 4:4-6).
- There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. - Ephesians 4:4-6
These three outpourings were limited and temporary. They were limited to three particular groups. Outside of these three events, no other groups in the New Testament had such an experience. There is no Biblical support that the Holy Spirit is continuously being poured out again and again. It was prophesied in the Old Testament and partially fulfilled in the days following the resurrection of Christ. The Holy Spirit was poured out three specific times upon three distinct people groups. However, those ministries of the Spirit associated with His outpouring continue.
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