Acts 10: 44-48 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues[a] and praising God.
Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.
Like my previous post, there seems to be evidence that there are two separate experiences. Some people first were baptized in water and then the apostles came and laid hands on them and they recieved the Holy Spirit. In the above scripture the gift of the Holy Spirit came and then they were baptized in water. I believe the Holy Spirit is the key. I am a "Spirit filled" believer. I think being filled with the Spirit, is a path that each Christian must seek. Some churches routinely practice this as the Catholic Church would call it a "sacrament". Just like water baptism, it seems to be another step in our walk of faith. Being filled with the spirit is not a one time fix all. Our walk with God, our prayer time, our time reading the word will produce times of being filled with the spirit. For me, one day I have a marvelous morning with the Lord and everything "feels" so clear. I have insights and feel the Holy Spirit with me. But, life has a way of going on and the clarity fades. But we walk in faith and decide to continue and surrender each day. Today and each day Lord, I ask for the Holy Spirit in my life. Fill me, teach me, guide me, give me wisdom, give me boldness. Let me use the "gift" you have given us and not leave it wrapped up on the shelf.
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