While there are many different books and opinions on this matter, it would seem most helpful to take the simple and straightforward view of what it means to be "filled". Throughout the New Testament, the usage of the word "filled" seems to have common idea behind it. Consider some examples:

- The boat was filled with fishes after Jesus' miracle (Luke 5:7)
- The religious leaders are filled with rage or jealousy (Luke 4:2, Acts 5:12)
- A house is filled with fragrance (John 12:3)
- Jerusalem was filled with fear (Acts 5:28)

The common idea in all of these (and others in the New Testament) is "control". When something or someone is filled they are controlled. The substance doing the filling is exerting so much influence over the "vessel" that it has taken a measure of control over that vessel. Being filled with the Spirit is meant to be seen as exactly that. Paul writes that we should not allow anything to hold such an influence over us that the control of our life, heart, thoughts, strength, loyalties, etc. are surrendered to it. Instead, he teaches, be so controlled by the Holy Spirit that His values and purposes are visibly lived out through our lives. (Ephesians 5:15-21). And how does such control begin? Only by personal invitation. Just as it was up to you to invite Christ into your life to bring you salvation, so it is up to you to invite Him (and His Spirit) to hold complete control of your life. It is an important, landmark decision that every believer must face. Will Christ be a guest in my lifeÃ…Â or master? Romans 12:1-2 speaks of that landmark decision...to fully surrender your whole self to God. But Scripture also speaks of the daily decisions that must follow to re-affirm the landmark! (Romans 6:12-18 and Luke 9:23).

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Other CFBC Websites

• championforest.org
• inyourelement.org
• saysoma.org