The baptism with the Holy Spirit is a separate and distinct experience from regeneration, as promised by the Father and fulfilled on the day of Pentecost. This baptism empowers believers for service, as evidenced by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the disciples, enabling them to be bold witnesses for Christ. The use of the Greek preposition “epi” in reference to this baptism signifies the Holy Spirit coming upon or overflowing, distinguishing it from the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit at conversion.

Jesus commanded His disciples to make disciples of all nations, a seemingly impossible task. Before sending them out, He instructed them to wait in Jerusalem for the fulfillment of the promise of the Holy Spirit, which would empower them to fulfill their commission. This baptism of the Holy Spirit was distinct from their regeneration and was directly related to their mission to preach the gospel.

Water baptism symbolizes death to the old self and a commitment to following Jesus, but it does not save. It is an outward expression of an inward experience of being born again through faith in Jesus Christ. While water baptism is important, the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which occurs at the moment of regeneration, is equally significant.

John the Baptist, content with his divine calling, exemplified humility and fulfillment by pointing people to Jesus Christ. His joy was complete because he didn’t seek positions beyond his calling, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and fulfilling one’s unique purpose in God’s plan. Ultimately, our worth is measured by our obedience to God’s will, not by our achievements or comparisons to others.

Pastor Ron Matsen reviews the numerous instances of murmuring and disobedience by the Israelites throughout their journey, highlighting God’s patience and provision despite their failures. After a 38-year period of wandering in the wilderness, a new generation of Israelites emerges, having grown up without knowledge of Egypt or Mount Sinai. This isolation was intended by God to teach them the importance of His word over their daily needs.

Pastor Ron Matsen expresses the gratitude for God’s perseverance with Israel and humanity, emphasizing the importance of faith and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Korah leads a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, claiming that all Israelites were holy and questioning their authority. Moses challenged them to a test, and the earth swallowed Korah and his followers, while fire consumed the 250 men offering incense. Despite this, the Israelites continued to complain, leading to a plague that killed 14,700 people.

The Israelites, after being led out of Egypt, faced a pivotal moment when they sent spies to the Promised Land. Despite the positive report from Joshua and Caleb, the majority of the Israelites, driven by fear and unbelief, rebelled against God’s command to enter the land. This disobedience resulted in God’s judgment, condemning the rebellious generation to wander in the wilderness for 40 years, missing out on the Promised Land.

Session 2 with Pastor Ron Matsen focuses on chapters 7 through 12 of the Book of Numbers, highlighting the theme of dedication and deadly desires. Pastor Ron emphasizes the importance of paying attention to types and shadows in the text, encouraging personal study and reflection. The study delves into the detailed account of the offerings presented by the leaders of each tribe for the dedication of the altar, underscoring God’s meticulous recording of every gift, no matter the amount.

Today's text delves into the book of Numbers' chapter 1-6, highlighting God’s jealousy for proper representation and the responsibilities of the Levite tribe in caring for the tabernacle. It emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and spiritual purity, drawing parallels between the Israelites’ practices and the Christian faith. The Nazarite vow, a commitment to abstain from defiling substances, is also discussed, with examples from the Bible, including Samson and the Apostle Paul.

Jesus’ teachings astonished the people because he spoke with authority, unlike the scribes who relied on others’ opinions. He declared his disciples as the salt of the earth and the light of the world, emphasizing the individual’s role in hindering evil and evangelizing. Jesus’ statements, such as fulfilling the law and prophets and asserting his righteousness, were radical and challenged the religious norms of his time.