The Acts of the Apostles (1911) — PDF Scan 289

Scan transcription helps with searching and selection. Use the printed page above for exact spelling and punctuation.

EPHESUS 283 scribed how gloriously tliis promise had been fulfilled on the day of Pentecost. "With deep interest and grateful, wondering joy, the brethren listened to Paul's words. By faith they grasped the wonderful truth of Christ's atoning sacrifice, and received Him as their Eedeemer. They were then baptized in the name of Jesus; and as Paul ^4aid his hands upon them," they received also the baptism of the Holy Spirit, by which they were enabled to speak the languages of other nations, and to prophesy. Thus they were qualified to labor as missionaries in Ephesus and its vicinity, and also to go forth to proclaim the gospel in Asia Minor. It was by cherishing a humble, teachable spirit that these men gained the experience that enabled them to go out as workers into the harvest-field. Their example presents to Christians a lesson of great value. There are many who make but little progress in the divine life, because they are too selfsufficient to occupy the position of learners. They are content with a superficial knowledge of God's word. They do not wish to change their faith or practice, and hence make no effort to obtain greater light. If the followers of Christ were but earnest seekers after wisdom, they would be led into rich fields of truth, as yet wholly unknown to them. He who will give himself fully to God, will be guided by the divine hand. He may be lowly and apparently ungifted; yet if with a loving, trusting heart he obeys every intimation of God's will, his powers will be purified, ennobled, energized, and his capabilities will be increased. As he treasures the les-