A pastor argues that charismatic gifts like speaking in tongues, prophecy, healing, and miracles should be active today, not hidden away. New converts should experience the Holy Spirit's power right after salvation. Honoring the Spirit matters more than protecting the church's reputation.
People of God, the gifts are for today. The gift of speaking in tongues is for today. The gift of prophecy is for today. Our responses to God, manifestations of his power—that's for today. Miracles are for today. Healing is for today. Dreams and visions are for today. Deliverance is for today. It's time to stop limiting the Holy Spirit to back rooms and special services. It's time to stop saying, "Well, not in front of the new converts. Well, not in front of the visitors." My friend. When somebody gets saved, we want to see them filled with the power of the Holy Ghost the very moment they are saved. He's not a liability. He's not a risk. Yes, he may cost us our reputation. That's where the power is, of no reputation. It's better to offend people than to offend the precious Holy Spirit.
