Truth Magazine

By Carrol R. Sutton

When God sent Moses to Egypt to deliver the Israelites from bondage, he gave him power to perform miracles and signs. The purpose of these signs and miracles was to confirm to the Israelites and to Pharaoh that God had sent Moses on this mission (see Exod. 4:1-8,17,21,28-3 1). Moses spake God’s message to Pharaoh and confirmed it with signs which he did.

In the book we call the New Testament Scriptures we have God’s revealed and confirmed word to produce faith in our hearts and to instruct us in righteousness (see Rom. 10:17; 2 Tim. 3:16-17). A study of how God, through (or by), the Holy Spirit revealed and confirmed his word should be of interest and concern to all of us.

Although the coming of the Messiah had been foretold by the prophets, when the Messiah (Jesus of Nazareth) came, even “his own received him not” (cf. Jn. 1:11). Jesus performed miracles to prove that he is indeed the Son of God. In Mark 2:1-12 Jesus forgave a man (who was sick of the palsy) of his sins when he saw the faith of those who brought the sick man to him. When some scribes (in their hearts) accused Jesus of blasphemy, he miraculously healed the palsied man that they might know that he (the Son of man) had power on earth to forgive sins. After Jesus turned water into wine in John 2 “his disciples believed on him” (v.11) . For other miracles which Jesus did, see Matthew 4:23-24; Mark 4:35-41; Luke 13:11-17; John 11:41-46, etc. We learn from John 20:30-31 that the signs which Jesus did that are recorded are written that people “might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing” they “might have life through his name.”

When Jesus (during his personal ministry on earth) sent the twelve disciples and later the seventy out to preach to the Israelites “the kingdom of God” and that “men should repent” (see Matt. 10:1-23; Mk. 6:7-13; Lk. 9:1-6; 10:1-20), he gave them power to perform miracles (such as healing the sick and casting out devils). The miracles which they performed could serve as “credentials” to prove that they indeed were messengers of God’s Word!

Apostles Were Promised Holy Spirit Baptism

In addressing his apostles (a short time before his death) Jesus said: “But the Comforter which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you,” and “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak not of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come” (Jn. 14:26; 16:13). Speaking to his apostles after his resurrection, Jesus said, “But ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. . . ” and “. . . Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:5-8). Here are some of the facts we gather from the statements made by Jesus.

(1) The apostles would be baptized with the Holy Spirit.

(2) The Holy Spirit would teach the apostles “all things.”

(3) The Holy Spirit would bring “all things” that Jesus had said unto them to the remembrance of the apostles.

(4) The Holy Spirit would “guide” the apostles “into all truth.”

(5) The Holy Spirit would “show” the apostles “things to come.”

(6) The apostles would “receive power” after the Holy Spirit came upon them (also cf. Lk. 24:48-49).

(7) The apostles would be “witnesses” of Jesus.

We learn from Mark 16:15-18 that the apostles were to go into all the world and preach the gospel and that certain “signs” would follow believers.

The Apostles Received Holy Spirit Baptism

In keeping with the promise that was made to the apostles in Acts 1:8 (“Ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence”), we learn from Acts 2:4 that “they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” This occurred on Pentecost as recorded in Acts 2. A close study of Acts 1 and 2 will reveal that only the apostles received Holy Spirit baptism on Pentecost. Although we have no record as to when Paul was filled with the Holy Spirit as the apostles were on Pentecost, the evidence points to the face that he was so filled (see 2 Cor. 11:5; 12:12; Gal. 1:1,11-12). We learn from Acts 10 and 11 that Cornelius (and “his kinsmen and near friends”) also received Holy Spirit baptism. This was evidence that God had also to the Gentiles “granted repentance unto life.”

Laying On of the Apostles’ Hands

After the apostles laid their hands on the seven men in Acts 6 it is specifically stated in verse 8 that “Stephen, (one of the seven -CRS) full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.” We learn from Acts 8:5-13 that Philip (another one of the seven) preached Christ and did “miracles and signs” in Samaria. The people believed the preaching and were baptized. The apostles at Jerusalem sent Peter and John to Samaria and they (Peter and John) laid their hands on the Samaritans and “they received the Holy Ghost.” Acts 8:18-19 says, “And when Simon saw that through the laying on the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money saying, Give me also this power that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.” Obviously, the Samaritans received the Holy Spirit in a miraculous way. In Acts 19:6 Paul (an apostle) “laid his hands upon them” (12 men at Ephesus) and “they spake with tongues and prophesied.”

Those on whom the apostles laid hands could perform signs and wonders. Some could speak “with tongues and prophesy” (Acts 19:6). Stephen could speak the truth “with wisdom” and could do “great wonders and signs” (Acts 6:1-10). Philip could preach Christ and do “miracles and signs” (Acts 8:5-13). Not all could do the same things (cf. 1 Cor. 12:28-31).

Although those on whom the apostles laid their hands and those to whom a miraculous gift of the Holy Spirit was given could speak in tongues and prophesy, speak the truth with wisdom and could do great wonders, signs and miracles, there is no evidence that any of them could impart a miraculous gift to others.

Spiritual Gifts of 1 Corinthians 12

There are nine spiritual gifts listed in 1 Corinthians. They are: (1) The word of wisdom, (2) The word of knowledge, (3) Faith, (4) The gifts of healing, (5) The working of miracles, (6) Prophecy, (7) Discerning of spirits, (8) Kinds of tongues, and (9) The interpretation of tongues.

All who received miraculous gifts of the Spirit did not receive the same gifts. For example, all were not “workers of miracles.” Neither did all “speak with tongues, ” nor “interpret” (cf. 1 Cor. 12:28-31).

The apostles (and those who received spiritual gifts) received by revelation of the Holy Spirit the truth and they confirmed the truth of the message they tauhht by doing wonders, miracles and signs.

In Galatians 1:11-12 and Ephesians 3:2-6 the apostle Paul stated that the gospel that he preached was revealed unto him by Jesus Christ. He stated that God’s message was “revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.” Paul declared that he had written the message revealed to him that others might read and understand what he knew. Here are some of the wonders, miracles and signs performed in confirmation of the revelation received by inspired men. (1) The apostles and some others spake in tongues (i.e., languages) they had not learned (cf. Mk. 16:17-20; Acts 2:4; 1 Cor. 12:6-3 1; 13; 14). (2) The sick and afflicted were healed (cf. Acts 3:1-16; 5:12-16; 8:5-7; 9:32-35; 14:8-11). (3) Elymas, an enemy of righteousness, was stricken blind (cf. Acts 13:6-12). (4) Unclean spirits were cast out (cf. Acts 5:16; 8:7). (5) The dead were raised (cf. Acts 9:36-42; 20:7-12). (6) Wonders, miracles and signs . (No doubt some of the above are included in these [cf. Acts 2:43; 5:12; 6:8; 14:3; 15:12,15-21; 2 Cor. 12:12]).

Men could not have known the things of God unless the Spirit of God had revealed them to men. The Spirit revealed the things of God to men in the first century and they preached the gospel (cf. 1 Cor. 2:9-13; 1 Pet. 1:12). The wonders, miracles and signs that were done confirmed the truth of the message. Mark 16:20 says, “And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.” We learn from Hebrews 2:3-4 that the “great salvation” first began to be spoken by the Lord “and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will.”

The Duration of Miraculous Gifts

In 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 we have the nine spiritual gifts listed. In 1 Corinthians 14 we have regulations given to govern the use of spiritual gifts as long as they were in operation. In 1 Corinthians 13 we have the duration of spiritual gifts stated. In 1 Corinthians 13:8-10 Paul declared: “Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease: whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.” Please consider the following facts:

(1) Spiritual “gifts” (prophecy, tongues and knowledge are specifically mentioned but may stand for all) were to be done away (i.e., “fall”, “cease” and “vanish away).

(2) Obviously, some inspired men knew only a part of all truth for it was not all revealed through one man or all at one time. Some of the truth was given (i.e., revealed) through some men and the rest was given through others until finally all the truth (i.e., the perfect and complete revelation) would come from God to men.

(3) The words “when” and “then” are particles of time and point out a certain time for spiritual gifts to “be done away.” Paul said it was “when” that which is perfect or complete (in contrast with the parts or fragments that they then had) is come that the miracles would cease. Some translations say “partial” or “incomplete” or “imperfect” instead of “in part” and “complete” instead of “perfect” in verse 10.

(4) Logically, “that which is perfect” (i.e. , “the complete, “) is in the same realm or is of the same nature as “that which is in part.” Since “that which is in part” refers to the transmission of divine truth by revelation, the expression “that which is perfect” must also refer to the revelation of divine truth, but not in part but in whole. Therefore, “that which is perfect” refers to God’s complete revelation of truth, “all truth,” the entire New Testament.

The thing which is “in part” is of the same nature as the whole. The truth being revealed was “in part” as a result of the spiritual gifts which were given for revelation, inspiration and confirmation. The truth being revealed in part was being contrasted with the truth in all of its parts. The partial ‘ the incomplete, the fragmentary, the imperfect was being contrasted with the complete, the whole, the perfect!

When all the parts were finally revealed, “that which is perfect” – the whole, the complete truth was in existence (i.e., was made known to man)! This was accomplished by the time inspired men had written the last word of the New Testament. Note: The word “perfect” is used in the New Testament to refer to God’s revelation and surely it could be so used here in 1 Corinthians 13:10 to describe it (see Jas. 1:25; Rom. 12:2).

(5) When “that which is perfect” came, then that which was “in part” no longer existed! The partial or incomplete became the whole, the complete, the perfect! Neither would the spiritual gifts which revealed and confirmed the truth continue to exist. Their purpose had been fulfilled. In fact, at that time, they ceased as the apostle said they would!

No Holy Spirit Baptism and Spiritual Gifts Today

Since the purposes of Holy Spirit baptism and spiritual gifts have been fulfilled, the need for such no longer exists. Although there had been other baptisms, when Paul penned Ephesians 4:5 he said there is “one baptism.” By this time Holy Spirit baptism was no longer being received by anyone although water baptism continued to be in effect and would continue as long as men are lost and thus need to be saved (see Mk. 16:15-16; Matt. 28:18-20).

Today, we have a complete revelation that was confirmed by miracles and signs that were done in the first century (cf. 2 Tim. 3:16-17; Jas. 1:25; 2:12; Gal. 3:15). There is no need for nor is there any evidence that anyone today is being baptized with the Holy Spirit or receiving any spiritual gifts. Those things ceased by the time the last apostle and those upon whom the apostles laid their hands died.

Guardian of Truth XXXV: 8, pp. 230-232
April 18, 1991

By Herschel E. Patton

Obviously, the Holy Spirit does lead certain ones. “Sons of God” are thus led. “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God” (Rom.8:14). Jesus was “led up of the Spirit” into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil (Matt. 4:1). Paul and his companions were being led on their journey by the Holy Spirit when they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, “having been forbidden of the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia,” and when “they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit of Jesus suffered them not” (Acts 16:6-7). The Holy Spirit led Peter to the house of Cornelius, and Philip was led by the Holy Spirit to the eunuch.

No one denies the fact that the Holy Spirit leads or guides. Many, however, differ on the matter of how he leads. Some believe and teach that the Holy Spirit acts miraculously in leading to salvation and sanctification, without means or instrumentality. These fail to recognize a difference in ordinary and miraculous manifestations. They want to make every action of the Spirit toward the sinner or saint miraculous. Some who claim to be Christians feel that the Holy Spirit dwells in them personally and leads them to speak in tongues, heal, make utterances (preach) as the Spirit gives it to them, and even directs them in various experiences in life. One told of the Holy Spirit leading him to a parking space when he sorely needed one. Some seem to feel that the Holy Spirit in them serves like a radar beep leading, guiding, and warning always. We need to look to the Bible and see what it reveals about the leading of Deity.

Each member of the Godhead is said to lead just as each is said to dwell in us. Learning how Deity leads and dwells in us should clear up the confusion in the minds of many about the “how.”

Some speak of the dispensations of God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit. They are referring to the times when God spoke directly with man or led by direct contact, when Christ was here on earth, and after Christ ascended and sent the Holy Spirit. Looking at how God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit led during these periods should help answer the question of this article.

God led Noah to build an ark wherein he and his family were saved from the flood (Heb. 11:7). The Genesis account tells us that God “said unto Noah . . . make thee an ark of gopher wood . . . and this is the fashion which thou shalt make it” (Gen. 6:13-16). “And Noah did according to all that the Lord commanded him” (7:5). How did God lead Noah to build the ark? He spoke to him in a language Noah understood, giving detailed instructions, and Noah followed (did) all that God commanded.

God led Abraham out of Ur of the Chaldees. How? Abraham received instructions from God and his faith resulted in obedience (Heb. 11:8-9; Rom. 10:17; Gen. 12:1-4). God led Abraham by speaking to him and Abraham obeyed.

God led Israel out of Egyptian bondage, and through the wilderness (Deut.8:14-15; 29:4-5). In doing this he used the instrumentality of Moses and Aaron. “Thou leadest thy people like a flock, by the hand of Moses and Aaron” (Psa.77:20). He confirmed his leadership and his appointed agents by many miracles (plagues, parting waters, pillar of cloud and fire, etc.). God led them by choosing and equipping Moses who spoke God’s will to the people and they obeyed.

Christ made disciples by teaching instruction. He commanded and they obeyed (Jn. 1:43). No mysterious or supernatural power possessed the individuals to make them follow Jesus. Miraculous proof that Jesus was from God, and was God, was given to induce faith in the individual to accept the instruction Jesus gave, and to follow him. People became followers of Christ by being taught – hearing, learning, and coming Qn. 6:44-45). Jesus led people by speaking truth to them (taught in a way that they could understand) and they followed him . This is the same way that God led Abraham and Israel in their day.

The Spirit’s Leading

We have already pointed out that the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted by divine instruction and led Paul in his journeys by divine instruction. The word of God teaches that the Holy Spirit leads sons of God today (Rom. 8:14). Does he do it differently from other examples of the leading of Deity? A careful study of Scripture shows that the Holy Spirit, an intelligent speaking person, also speaks to people and they hear and obey.

There were different manifestations of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:4-7). The apostles were promised baptism of the Holy Spirit for revelation and confirmation of the word of truth (Acts 1:5; Jn.14:26; 16:13-15; 1 Cor.2:12-13; Mk. 16:20). There were “gifts of the Spirit” (miraculous powers) used in revealing and confirming truth (1 Cor. 12:1-11,28) that were bestowed on certain ones by the laying on of an ap6stle’s hands (Acts 8:17-18; 19:6). These gifts of the Spirit were temporary and would vanish away when maturity (complete, finished revelation and confirmation of truth) was reached (1 Cor. 13:8-10).

The Holy Spirit led three thousand souls to be saved on Pentecost. How? The Holy Spirit came to the apostles with miraculous demonstrations, giving proof that these men were truly messengers of God. Peter spoke “as the Holy Spirit gave utterance.” Many were convicted by the truth spoken and asked, “What shall we do?” The Holy Spirit, speaking through Peter, said, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2). Thus about three thousand were led by the Holy Spirit to salvation, when they heard, believed and did just what the Holy Spirit said for them to do.

This is exactly how the Holy Spirit leads Christians today. Redeemed people need the leading of the Spirit in living the Christian life as much as they did in coming to Christ. In leading, guiding and edifying the Christian, the Spirit uses the instrumentality of truth – the revealed, confirmed word of truth. The word of God is said to be the “sword (instrument) of the Spirit” (Eph.6:17).

The Holy Spirit “speaks expressly” (1 Tim. 4:1-2) giving instruction, warnings, exhortations through the New Testament. The Holy Spirit has never laid aside the agency of truth, substituting fleshly feelings, emotions, or imaginations, in the guidance of Christians. Sons of God are led by the Spirit of God as they hear the Spirit revealed message of truth, believe and obey it. This is the way that Christians walk after the Spirit,” “mind the things of the Spirit,” are in the Spirit,” “live in the Spirit,” and are “led by the Spirit” (Rom. 8:1,4,5,9,13,14).

Deity has always led by the agent/agency of revealed, confirmed truth (God’s will) being made known to man, coupled with man’s faith and obedience. The leading of Deity never overrides the will (free moral agency) of man, so that he cannot choose to do or not do the will of God.

Guardian of Truth XXXV: 8, pp. 237, 239
April 14, 1991

By Joe Corley

The subject of the operation of the Holy Spirit has been confusing and mysterious to some due primarily to false teaching. Satan has “blinded the minds” of those whose religious beliefs are based upon the creeds of men rather than the word of God.

Does the Holy Spirit operate today? If so, how? What does he do in regards to the conversion of sinners, if anything? As we address these questions, let us first define some terms: By “operate” we mean what he does, how he influences, or in what way he works. We believe he does operate in ever case of conversion today even as he has always done. It is not a question of whether he works, but how. Does he operate directly or indirectly; personally or through some agent? It is not a question of power. It is not a matter of what he is able to do, but rather what he chooses to do and in what way he chooses to do it. We can find our answer in the Bible. By “conversion’ we mean the process of turning from sin to salvation, of changing from an alien sinner to a child of God.

How The Spirit Does Not Operate In Conversion

The belief of man is that the sinner must receive a direct operation of the Spirit before he can be converted, and to enable him to be converted. By “direct operation” is meant an operation separate from the word of God – a special mystical and personal influence which changes the heart and makes it susceptible to the word. This doctrine, which we believe to be false, is based upon still another false doctrine – that of inherent sin or total depravity as taught by John Calvin. It is thus taught that all were born in sin and are totally unable to believe and respond to the gospel without a direct operation of the Spirit. Note the following:

By this sin (eating the forbidden fruit) they (our first parents) fell from their original righteousness and communion with God, and so became dead in sin, and wholly defiled in all the faculties and parts of soul and body. They being the root of all mankind, the guilt of this sin was imputed and the same death in sin and corrupted nature conveyed to all their posterity descending from them by ordinary generation. From this original corruption, whereby we are utterly in disposed, disabled, and made opposite to all good, and wholly inclined to all evil, do proceed all actual transgressions (Presbyterian Confession of Faith).

Man, by his fall into sin, hath wholly lost all ability of will to any spiritual good accompanying salvation . . . is not able, by his own strength, to convert himself or to prepare himself thereunto (Presbyterian Confession of Faith).

We believe . . . that regeneration consists in giving a holy disposition to the mind, that is effected in a manner above our comprehension by the Holy Spirit (Standard Manual for Baptist Churches, by Hiscox).

The Bible nowhere teaches that we inherit a corrupt nature or that we are born guilty of Adam’s sin, or that we are born totally depraved. There is certainly nothing in man’s fleshly nature inherently corrupt. If so, what? Christ was born with the same fleshly nature that we have (Heb. 2:14-18). Was his flesh corrupt? Neither are we born corrupt in our spirit. Man’s spirit is not inherited from our parents or forefathers. Zechariah 12:1 tells us that God “formeth the spirit of man within him.” Our spirit comes from God. Does God create in man a corrupt spirit? God gave to Adam and Eve the nature they had. He pronounced his creation of them “good” (Gen. 1:21). Yet, they sinned! Whatever caused them to commit sin is what causes man to sin today, for we all have the same basic nature. Sin does not happen because of an inherited, depraved nature. This teaching, therefore, that man comes into this world wholly depraved is false, and so is the “direct operation” theory which is based upon it. When the one falls, so does the other.

Moreover, there are certain logical consequences of the “direct operation” theory which bring it into direct conflict with Bible teaching. Consider the following: One is a lost sinner. According to the above theory he inherited a depraved heart that makes it impossible for him to accept the gospel. He can do nothing for himself. He is in a hopeless state unless God chooses to send the Spirit upon him to change that heart. But he, like millions of others never receives a “direct operation of the Spirit” to enable him to believe. He dies and spends eternity in hell. Who is to blame? Certainly not the sinner! He had no choice and no will in the matter. This theory destroys free will and makes God responsible for his lost condition. Why would God command all men to repent (Acts 17:30), and require all to obey the gospel or else suffer eternal damnation (2 Thess. 1:7-9), and then refuse to give them all a direct operation of the Spirit to enable them to obey? Such reflects upon God’s justice and makes him a respecter of persons, which the Bible says he is not (Acts 10:34,35). Such teaching is contrary to the whole system of salvation which reveals God as one who is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (1 Pet. 3:9). Who can believe such a doctrine! The Bible teaches that the sinner can choose for himself to accept or reject the gospel, and without some mysterious better-felt-than-told direct operation by the Spirit that gives “a holy disposition to the mind.” Peter told the Jews on Pentecost, “Save yourselves from this untoward generation” (Acts 2:40). In Revelation 22:17 the invitation is extended to all: “Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”

How Does The Holy Spirit Operate In Conversion?

The Spirit operates today in conversion in the same way he has always operated. It is true that in Bible times the Spirit often directly guided certain men of God and communicated to them God’s will (2 Pet. 1:20, 21). But in the conversion of sinners the Spirit did not so operate. Rather, the Spirit operated indirectly through the inspired word, and still does. The Spirit does the following things in conversion:

1. He bears witness of Christ. “And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth” (1 Jn. 5:6). How does he do this? Does he do so by speaking directly and personally to the sinner’s heart? Where is the passage that teaches it? To the contrary! He bears witness by revealing Christ through inspired men. In New Testament times the apostles and prophets preached Christ “as the Spirit gave them utterance” (Acts 2:4). Today, the only inspired men are those same apostles and prophets in the Bible. The Spirit has left us their message. He bears witness through their word. John said, “But these things are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God” (Jn. 20:31).

2. The Holy Spirit also reproves or convicts sinners. “And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment” (Jn. 16:7, 8). Yet he does so through the word of God which is the Spirit’s sword (Eph. 6:17), and with it he pricks the heart (Acts 2:37), and pierces “even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit” (Heb. 4:12).

3. Likewise, the Spirit begets sinners. Thus it is said that we must be “born of the Spirit” (Jn. 3:3-5). But this happens when the word of God gets into the heart. “Being born (begotten) again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever” (1 Pet. 1:23).

4. The Holy Spirit renews sinners. “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost” (Tit. 3:5). This he does by washing, sanctifying, and justifying the sinner. “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Cor. 6:11). Yet each of these is accomplished through the agency of the word. Jesus said, “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you” (Jn. 15:3). Likewise, sanctification comes through obedience to the word. “Sanctify them through thy truth. Thy word is truth” (Jn. 17:17). We are justified only when we are forgiven and we are forgiven only when we accept and obey God’s conditions set forth in “the engrafted word which is able to save your souls” (Jas. 1:21), or the “gospel of Christ” which “is the power of God unto salvation” (Rom. 1:16).

Conversions In Acts

The various cases of conversion recorded in the book of Acts show how the Holy Spirit operated through the word. When the Jews on Pentecost heard the preaching of Peter and the other Spirit filled apostles, they were “pricked in their heart” (Acts 2:37). They were told, to “repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:38). When they obeyed the Spirit’s instruction they did, in fact, receive the Holy Spirit’s gift of salvation or remission of sins. The Ethiopian was reading the word when Philip “began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.” He responded to the requirements of the gospel “and went on his way rejoicing” (Acts 8:2939). Who would deny that it was the Spirit’s testimony that brought about his conversion? But there was no direct, personal operation of the Spirit involved. Lydia’s heart was opened by Paul’s message so that she responded to the preaching (Acts 16:14). There is no miracle or mystery in the opening of Lydia’s heart. She simply heard; she was convinced; she accepted the teaching. Yet, the Spirit most assuredly brought this about through the preaching of Paul.

What About Cornelius?

There is no example in scripture of the Spirit operating upon the sinner separate and apart from the word for the purpose of enabling him to accept the gospel. Someone may inquire about the case of Cornelius (Acts 10) since he received the Spirit directly before his conversion. However, it must be pointed’out that this case is exceptional. Moreover, the Spirit did not come upon him to enable him to hear. He was already both able and willing to hear the gospel and, in fact, had sent for Peter to come preach to him. Neither was the Spirit sent upon him to save him separate from the word, for the angel had instructed Cornelius to send for Peter “who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved” (Acts 11:14). Cornelius was the first Gentile convert. Up until this time the gospel had not been preached among the Gentiles. It had been preached to and received by Jews only. But God had promised the gospel to the whole world (including both Jews and Gentiles), and this miracle signaled the fulfilling of that promise. The Spirit came upon Cornelius to assure the Gentiles and convince the Jews that the Gentiles could receive the gospel. The Spirit’s direct operation in this special case, therefore, was not to bring about the conversion of this man but rather to confirm his right and the right of all Gentiles to the gospel. Later, when Peter rehearsed these events to the apostles and brethren in Jerusalem, they concluded, “Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life” (Acts 11:1-18).

Conclusion

In conclusion, we direct your attention to what Jesus said in John 6:44,45. “No man can come unto me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him; and I will raise him up at the last day. As it is written in the prophets, And they shall all be taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.” Therefore, it is the message of truth, as taught by those in Bible times who were directly guided by the Holy Spirit, which serves as the agent through which the Spirit draws all men to Christ. As the Jews of old often came to “resist the Spirit” by rejecting the message of God (Acts 7:51), so do sinners now.

Guardian of Truth XXXV: 8, pp. 233-234
April 18, 1991

By Douglas Matlock

“Have you been baptized in the Holy Spirit?” This question has been asked often by sincere people who desire salvation. To say that people are a little confused on this subject would be an understatement. Some pray for this baptism. It has been affirmed in debate that Holy Spirit baptism must be received in order to become a child of God. I was told by a man with whom I was discussing the Scriptures that he believed the one baptism in Ephesians 4:4 was Holy Spirit baptism. Brother R. L. Whiteside wrote, “I think it is safe to say that the majority of such advocates contend that sinners are regenerated and saved by this Holy Ghost baptism” (Doctrinal Discourses 180). Among some denominations it is a central doctrine, the first evidence of it in a person’s life is having the power to speak in tongues. So the subject is an important one that deserves our attention and study.

Let us begin by considering this statement by John the Baptist, “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: But he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear; He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and, with fire” (Matt. 3:11). In John 14-16 we read of Jesus instructing his apostles about his departure from them. In doing so he promised to send the Comforter to them. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you” (Jn. 16:13). The apostles would be without a Comforter when Jesus departed, but they would receive another Comforter (the Holy Spirit) to be with them. His mission would be to supply the needs of the apostles in carrying out the great commission given by Jesus.

Let us observe here that Holy Spirit baptism was a promise made by Jesus to his apostles and did not include anyone else, nor was it a command to anyone. The Holy Spirit baptism promised by Jesus had a distinct purpose. Let us look at the reason given by Jesus: “He will teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance”; “He will guide you into all truth”; “He will show you things to come.” The apostles needed to be able to remember the things Jesus had taught them, along with additional truths that they were not able to receive while he was among them. The great scheme of redemption that was hidden with God from the eternal ages was about to be revealed in its fullness and completeness. The apostles would be perfectly equipped for their mission.

When Jesus appeared to the apostles after his resurrection, and instructed them about their receiving Holy Spirit baptism, he said, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). They were informed that the promised Holy Ghost baptism would clothe them with power. About ten days later, on Pentecost, we read, “And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance” (Acts 2:24). The power associated with this baptism not only gave them the ability to teach perfectly God’s scheme of redemption, but they could also speak to people in languages they had not learned. This would be a great asset when they went to other lands in teaching the gospel of Christ. In this same connection we read, “And these signs shall follow them that believe; in My name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover” (Mk. 16:17-18). “And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following” (v. 20).

Not only would the power received enable them to speak in other languages, but also to work signs, wonders, and miracles, that would give credence and confirmation to their teaching, that it was from God. This was the sole purpose of this power: to teach God’s plan of salvation and to furnish proof that the word spoken by these chosen men was not from themselves, but from God.

This briefly outlines the baptism of the Holy Spirit from the time Jesus promised it to the apostles (only), to their receiving it, and their use of this power in going forth to teach and confirm the word spoken. This does not leave any room for anyone else to receive it. It was not a promise to anyone but the apostles. It did not save anyone. It was not a command given to anyone, not even the apostles, but a promise to be fulfilled to them. Other disciples received gifts of the Holy Spirit by the laying on of the hands of the apostles, but this was not the baptism in the Holy Spirit and they could not pass it on to anyone else. I will not go into this for another has been assigned that topic.

Paul Was Baptized in the Holy Spirit

I believe that Paul also received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, as he was an apostle, and not inferior to the other apostles in any way, even though he was placed into the apostleship at a later date. Paul’s account is recorded in Acts 9, 22, 26. Combining the accounts, we read of Jesus’ appearing to Paul for the purpose of making him a witness (Acts 22:14-15; 26:16), and thus qualifying him to be an apostle. He was baptized in water for the remission of sins (Acts 22:16), according to God’s plan of salvation. He was to be filled with the Holy Spirit according to Ananias’ words in Acts 9:17. On this point, brother Foy Wallace Jr. writes, “It was a statement of fact, not of time. Being an apostle of Christ, Saul later was baptized in the Holy Spirit.” “Holy Spirit baptism was from God, not from man; it was received directly from heaven – not by importation of hands.” “His inspiration awaited his conversion . . . at the proper time, when he was appointed to the apostleship, he received the baptism of the Holy Spirit” (Bulwarks of the Faith 191).

The Case of Cornelius

There is one other case that deserves our attention. This is the conversion of Cornelius, recorded in Acts 10. To get the full account we also must read chapters 11 and 15 also. The denominations have a field day with Cornelius’ account. One brother said, “When they are talking about prayer, they have him saved at this point. When they are talking about the Holy Spirit they have him saved at that point. If he was saved by prayer, he wasn’t saved by the Holy Spirit. If he was saved by the Holy Spirit then he wasn’t saved by prayer. They are going to have to decide when they want him saved.”

The truth is that he was not saved by either one. He was not saved by being a devout man and giving alms, nor by prayer, nor by the angel appearing to him, nor by the Holy Spirit coming upon him. In rehearsing the account, Peter said Cornelius was instructed to send for him; the angel told Cornelius that Peter “shall tell thee words whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved” (Acts 11:14). When Peter began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them. He had not yet spoken the words, but had just begun to speak. He later said, “God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe” (Acts 15:7). If he was saved when the Holy Spirit came upon him, then it was before he believed, for faith was to be produced by the words he would speak, as in every case of conversion (see Rom. 10:17).

If Cornelius was not saved by the miracles that surrounded this event, then what were they for? The use Peter made of them will reveal their purpose. He stated they were for the purpose of proving that the Gentiles should have the gospel preached to them and be admitted into the church. If that was not the purpose, then this inspired man misunderstood, and made the wrong use of it. I believe he understood the purpose. He then commanded them to be baptized in water, which was for the remission of sins (Acts 22:16; 2:38). Perhaps the account of Cornelius was another case of Holy Spirit baptism, for Peter described what happened as follows: “which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we” (10:47); “as on us at the beginning (11:15); “Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost” (11:16); “Forasmuch then as God gave them the Holy Ghost, even as He did unto us” (15:8). These statements would lead one to believe it was Holy Spirit baptism. However, it would not have been necessary for them to have had all the powers conferred by Holy Spirit baptism according to the use that Peter made of this outpouring of the Spirit.

Conclusion

No one was ever saved through Holy Spirit baptism. It was an aid to the apostles in preaching the gospel. Paul said in Ephesians 4:4 that there is one baptism. There is but one baptism today that is commanded for all men everywhere. That is the baptism of water for the remission of sins.

Guardian of Truth XXXV: 8, pp. 242-243
April 18, 1991