Jun 28 – 1 Kings 20, 1 Kings 21 Acts 18:9-28, Acts 19:1-13 Psalm 78:32-39
Acts 19:4-7
Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” On hearing this, they were baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. There were about twelve men in all.
When Paul arrived at Ephesus he finds some displaces – people who follow Jesus. But they’ve not heard the full truth, they are missing an important part- the gift of The Holy Spirit.
Notice Paul doesn’t leave them without this gift – because receiving this baptism is important to the life of a believer.
And what’s the key difference that allows Paul to know that they have received? They spoke in tongues. It’s the chief signifier that someone has received. Paul did not hear them speak in tongues, so he knew something was missing. When they have received they speak in tongues and Paul can leave satisfied that they have indeed received.
Tongues is not the only sign of The Baptism in The Holy Spirit, but it’s far and away the primary evidence.
