

Seeking the Spirit’s Fullness
Aug 21, 2025
Join Pastor John Piper, founder of DesiringGod.org and a prominent voice in Christian thought, as he discusses the empowering experience of receiving the Holy Spirit. He explores the two-stage reception seen in Acts 8, highlighting the transformative presence and power of the Spirit in believers' lives. Piper contrasts modern views of evangelism with the need for spiritual authenticity, questioning the balance between measurable success and genuine faith. This engaging dialogue invites listeners to deepen their understanding of divine empowerment and spiritual gifts.
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Samaritan Episode Was Exceptional
- The Samaritans in Acts 8 were genuine believers yet lacked some visible Spirit blessing until apostles symbolically authorized unity.
- Piper reads this as an exceptional, redemptive-historical event, not a model for normal two-stage conversion.
Spirit's Coming Is Experiential
- John Piper argues the Spirit's coming in Acts is experiential and point‑outable, not merely inferred from belief.
- He insists Biblical reception of the Spirit shows visible effects you can recognize and report.
Test Spirit Reception By Experience
- Answer Paul's question, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" by testing for experiential effects, not by mere assertion of faith.
- Look for discernible changes like boldness, obedience, praise, or spiritual gifts as confirmation.