We have received the Holy Spirit if we have received Christ as Savior (John 1:12). By trusting in the Lord Jesus to forgive our sins, we are cleansed (Rom. 5:1; 1 John 1:7-9). Along with this cleansing, the Holy Spirit lives in us (Rom. 8:11) just as the Father and the Son live in us (John 14:23). And since God is a Trinity, each person of the Trinity shares in the divine triune nature. So we must understand that if the Lord Jesus is indwelling you, then by logical necessity, so is the Holy Spirit.
Evidence that the Holy Spirit is in you
Some people say speaking in tongues is the primary evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit. But this is not a definitive test because not all people speak with tongues. Biblically speaking, we know that one of the manifestations of the Holy Spirit is speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4). So, if the charismatic gifts are for today, then speaking in tongues would be one of the evidences of the presence of the Holy Spirit. But, if for those who say the charismatic gifts have ceased, then speaking in tongues would not be evidence that a person has the Holy Spirit. (This article will not go into the issue of charismatic gifts and whether or not they are for today.)
Another more profound manifestation of the Holy Spirit is the conviction of sin. John 16:8 says, “And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” So, if you feel the conviction of your sin, that is a definite sign that the Holy Spirit indwells you.
The Holy Spirit also enlightens us when it comes to understanding Scripture. In 1 John 2:27, He is called ‘the anointing that teaches us.’ He taught the disciples (John 14:26), and He teaches us. This manifests when a Christian reads the Bible, and it becomes clear. We have insights we didn’t have before and enjoy learning. This is another evidence of the presence of the Spirit.
Bearing witness of Christ
John 15:26, “When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me.”
Jesus said that out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). If the Holy Spirit is indwelling you, then you will speak out of the abundance of his indwelling. Since he bears what is Christ, then the true Christian will, too.
