I realized something recently that surprised and delighted me. Some years ago I introduced maybe as many as 75 people to how to experience Jesus for themselves, experiencing Jesus in their heart. It was based on a key decision, which I explained they could undo if they did not like the experience or did not want to continue to experience Jesus. Not a single one chose to not continue to experience Jesus in their hearts. That’s astounding, there is little that we humans do that works so well. But then, this was the work of Holy Spirit….
Most of these people went on to be baptized in water, and then be baptized in Holy Spirit. We met in one of three houses, rotating where we met for about two years. Our weekly meetings lasted 6-8 hours; some people came early, others left early. We didn’t have 75 people at these meetings, but the house was always pretty full.
During that time, discipling happened, helped and led by Holy Spirit.
Regardless, we all learned how to experience Jesus. And everyone liked this so much they wanted to continue.
I was inspired to try this with people by Holy Spirit when reading scripture. It was long ago, and I’m not sure, but I suspect I had been reading 1 John, Chapter 4.
Here’s how it went, helping people to experience Jesus for themselves:
Try out these beliefs, and check your heart: you will be experiencing Jesus in your heart.
If you don’t like it, just decide against those beliefs.
Jesus is fully man, completely human.
Jesus is fully God, he is God.
When you believe both of these things: you can experience Jesus in your heart.
Hallelujah!