Notes for11 June 2021

Which relations, links exist between baptism and the descent of the Holy Ghost? In chapter two of the book of the Acts of the Apostles, baptism is accompanied by the manifestations of the gifts of the Spirit (2:38), in chapter eight baptism in the name of Jesus did not lead to the fallen of the Spirit (8:16), in chapter ten the descent of the Spirit precedes the baptism (10:44-48), now in the nineteenth chapter John's baptism, baptism in the name of the Lord and Paul's laying on of hands again were necessary for Ephesus . Truly, the wind (in certain translations it is the Spirit) bloweth, where it listeth (Jn 3:8)!

Secondly, what link exists between the gifts of the Spirit and salvation? If salvation is given by faith and baptism (Matt. 16 16), then what is the fallen of the Holy Spirit for? Maybe, the Holy Spirit gives strength to the saved to witness?

Thirdly, why the book of the Acts of the Apostles insists so much especially on these gifts of the Holy Spirit – speaking in tongues and prophesies? Paul indeed writes of several other gifts of the Spirit, manifesting in the Church (1Cor. 12). The fact is probably that the gifts which are spoken here manifest themselves in people directly after their conversion, these gifts are directly remarkable, but others, such as the gift of healing, teaching, operating miracles - manifest themselves later.