3.2 ACOP’s Response to the Schisms

[Jaylen]

They said speaking in tongues and empowerment for witnesses are the two initial signs that someone is baptized in the HS. Although I’m not sure after watching the video whether they stand on that tongues is the evidence or just a sign, and furthermore if they are the only sign-as in if you can’t speak in tongues then you haven’t been baptized in the Spirit-because I’d have a hard time believing that.
Wes said Evidence was not a scriptural word to use, and signs is more accurate. But then about 30 seconds later he said evidence again so I;m not sure what word is being stood on here.
None the less, I think once again getting too caught up in these things is a bit useless in my opinion. I think God is bigger than our interpretations/misinterpretations and ultimately he works through each person who puts their faith in Him in a personal and immeasurable way.

[Lorna Anne]

he ACOP Statement of Faith indicates that the initial evidence of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is speaking in tongues. Jesus spoke of other signs of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit in Mark 16 and Acts 1. What are some of those signs and why are they important to the Pentecostal Movement?

The Holy Spirit is the one making real to the disciples and the personal presence of the Lord. He demonstrated the drawing-power that not only brought the disciples together but also drew the multitudes together at the right time.

[Melany]

Other signs were casting out demons, healing the sick, handling snakes and drinking poison without harm coming to them. It’s important because the reason for baptism was the power to be a witness for Christ, and signs provide the witness/proof.

[Deleted User]

Empowerment to witness to others about Jesus, healing, exorcism, and other miraculous signs are signs of the baptism of the Holy Spirit as well as speaking in tongues. These are important to the Pentecostal movement because these things advance the kingdom and point us back to Jesus. I think of the miracles I've seen and every time I think of them I give God praise. I think of those who I have been able to witness to and the impact it had on their lives and once again I give praise to God.