He that believes and is not water baptised is saved

Well, your absence in dealing with the many verses I posted shows who is ignoring scripture.
I don't ignore any of the scripture that you posted. I do ignore your faulty interpretation of so much scripture. You engage in a tactic of so many. You quote a scripture, give an interpretation and then ascribe your interpretation as the only true one. You must understand that once you provide more that the precise quote of a scripture, whatever more you provide is no longer scripture. My disagreeing with your interpretation is not ignoring scripture.

When you produce a passage of scripture, give an interpretation of it which I disagree with, and then ask for proof that you are wrong, what do you really expect, given that there is very seldom any passage that specifically, word for word, negates your interpretation? That is precisely why there are so many divergent views within all of Christendom.

The Calvinist declares the doctrine of Total Depravity is biblical truth. There is no passage of scripture that says "Total Depravity is false" so that one cannot actually prove it is wrong; but at the same time, there is no passage of scripture that says "Total Depravity is true" so that one cannot actually prove it is true. It all comes down to interpretation.
 
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There is the gift of the Holy Spirit wherein the gift is from the Holy Spirit, rather than the Holy Spirit, Himself. That is observable and is given largely to indicate a happening that is authentically God attested and certified.

There is the gift of the Holy Spirit wherein the gift is the Holy Spirit. That is not observable. It does indeed indicate the indwelling Holy Spirit.

These two gifts of the Holy Spirit are independent. They are unrelated. Neither implies the other.

Since the gift of the Holy Spirit in Acts 10:45 is observed to have occurred, I think there can be no doubt that is not the gift, the indwelling, of the Holy Spirit and is rather the spiritual gift of the Holy Spirit of speaking in tongues.
Evidence please. All you are doing is making claims ignoring the phrasing used and the fact the passage was of a salvatory nature and that there is a particular application of the Spirit in a salvatory happenstance.

And you finish with an assumption in claiming that God cannot witness as to whom he sent the Spirit to indwell.
And as well ignoring what was obvious to the Jews - the Gentiles had been given repentance unto life. And Paul's acknowledging of the Baptism en the Holy Spirit and that being the same baptism of the Spirit the disciples first received
 
I don't ignore any of the scripture that you posted. I do ignore your faulty interpretation of so much scripture. You engage in a tactic of so many. You quote a scripture, give an interpretation and then ascribe your interpretation as the only true one. You must understand that once you provide more that the precise quote of a scripture, whatever more you provide is no longer scripture. My disagreeing with your interpretation is not ignoring scripture.
The facts remain true

You cannot rebut the fact that three phrases which are used to indicate the indwelling of the Spirit were used to speak of the Gentiles experience. That one was, in fact, used in a verse you have claimed was speaking of it.

You cannot rebut the fact the passage has a salvatory nature. And that the Jews recognized this

You cannot rebut the fact that in a salvatory context receiving the Spirit is speaking of the indwelling of the Spirit.

You cannot rebut the fact the Gentiles were baptized en the Spirit according to Paul
 
I believe she disobeyed God. It doesn't really matter what it was. However, I do not have a problem with the literal interpretation of eating the forbidden fruit.

The more interesting part is the explanation of why she disobeyed. It says "that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate". That describes the reason for so much of the sin that we all commit. It all seems to us as quite reasonable and rational to do it at the time.
Good point.

But I look at it as when she heard another voice she was over the moon that there was something other to talk to other then Adam because nowhere have we ready God made daily appearances.

SWo if she heard a near daily warning from Adam that she would die if she ate that fruit then she heard that serpent say she would not surly die, and possibly even take a bite himself to prove it... Well... curiosity took over and then

But that is just me. I tend to take things literal in the bible unless we know it is a parable. It just, to me, all fits together like a
puzzle.
 
You cannot rebut the fact the Gentiles were baptized en the Spirit according to Paul
Of course I can. I can rebut your interpretation of it just as well as you can affirm it.

And I have never said the Gentiles were not being baptized in the Spirit. I have only disagreed with your interpretation of what that is and when it happens.
 
Of course I can. I can rebut your interpretation just as well as you can affirm it.

And I have never said the Gentiles were not being baptized in the Spirit. I have only disagreed with your interpretation of what that is and when it happens.
The fact is you have not and simply made statements for which you provided no scriptural support

PS the baptism en the Spirit involves the Spirit's indwelling
 
Good point.

But I look at it as when she heard another voice she was over the moon that there was something other to talk to other then Adam because nowhere have we ready God made daily appearances.

SWo if she heard a near daily warning from Adam that she would die if she ate that fruit then she heard that serpent say she would not surly die, and possibly even take a bite himself to prove it... Well... curiosity took over and then

But that is just me. I tend to take things literal in the bible unless we know it is a parable. It just, to me, all fits together like a
puzzle.
I tend to agree that we should take literally what the bible says unless we decide it is metaphoric. But that is nearly always the real debate in such instances. It is never what the bible says, it is always what we, personally, think it means.
 
Yes, that is an interpretation. Am I now affirming that? I haven't denied that in the last 65+ years.
So then when Paul responded to the Gentiles experience with the Holy Spirit and stated

Acts 11:14–18 (LEB) — 14 who will speak words to you by which you will be saved, you and all your household.’ 15 And as I was beginning to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as also on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 Therefore if God gave them the same gift as also to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?” 18 And when they heard these things, they became silent and praised God, saying, “Then God has granted the repentance leading to life to the Gentiles also!”

we have an indwelling of the Spirit
 
Yes, that is an interpretation. Am I now affirming that? I haven't denied that in the last 65+ years.
So we have the first disciples promised the baptism en the Spirit

Acts 1:5 (NASB95) — 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”


And the gentiles receiving the same as Peter and those first disciples

Acts 10:46–47 (NASB95) — 46 For they were hearing them speaking with tongues and exalting God. Then Peter answered, 47 “Surely no one can refuse the water for these to be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we did, can he?”

Acts 11:15–17 (NASB95) — 15 “And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them just as He did upon us at the beginning. 16 “And I remembered the word of the Lord, how He used to say, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 “Therefore if God gave to them the same gift as He gave to us also after believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God’s way?”

Thus the gentiles had been baptized en the Spirit indwelt by him
 
Of course I can. I can rebut your interpretation of it just as well as you can affirm it.

And I have never said the Gentiles were not being baptized in the Spirit. I have only disagreed with your interpretation of what that is and when it happens.
No you cannot as

Acts 1:5 (LEB) — 5 For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

The first disciples were promised to be baptized en the Spirit

The gentiles received the same

Acts 10:46–47 (LEB) — 46 for they heard them speaking in tongues and glorifying God. Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can withhold the water for these people to be baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit as we also did!

Acts 11:15–17 (LEB) — 15 And as I was beginning to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as also on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 Therefore if God gave them the same gift as also to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?”

And the baptism en the Spirit is salvatory, placing those baptized in the body of Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:13 (LEB) — 13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free persons, and all were made to drink one Spirit.

You cannot rebut these scriptures, and you have no scriptures to contradict the obvious teaching of these scriptures.
 
So then when Paul responded to the Gentiles experience with the Holy Spirit and stated

Acts 11:14–18 (LEB) — 14 who will speak words to you by which you will be saved, you and all your household.’ 15 And as I was beginning to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as also on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 Therefore if God gave them the same gift as also to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?” 18 And when they heard these things, they became silent and praised God, saying, “Then God has granted the repentance leading to life to the Gentiles also!”

we have an indwelling of the Spirit
No, that is not quite right. You are interpreting verse 16 as an explanation of what occurred in verse 15. That is not the case. Having seen and/or heard what happened to the Gentiles, namely, being given the ability of the speaking in tongues, Peter remembered what Jesus has said about baptism with the Holy Spirit. The gift in verse 17 is the same gift given to Peter and others at Pentecost described in Acts 2:4 which was speaking in tongues. Peter in recognizing the significance of the gift of speaking in tongues came to the understanding that God intended the gospel was to be for the Gentiles as well as the Jews. Therefore, he could not hinder God. This is essentially a repeat of Acts 10:47. The result was that he commanded that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ (for the forgiveness of their sins and to receive the gift, the indwelling, the baptism with Holy Spirit just as had been done with the Jews in Acts 2:38.

The statement in 11:18 that "God has granted the repentance leading to life to the Gentiles also" is not a statement that Cornelius and the others with him had been saved, but rather that God had opened the door of the kingdom of God to the Gentile world. It was a statement that salvation has been made available to the Gentiles as well as the Jews.
 
No you cannot as

Acts 1:5 (LEB) — 5 For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
But that is not what was described in Acts 2:4. Acts 2:4 was not baptism with the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 presents baptism with the Holy Spirit. The giving of the gift, the indwelling, of the Holy Spirit in water baptism is the baptism with the Holy Spirit.
The first disciples were promised to be baptized en the Spirit

The gentiles received the same

Acts 10:46–47 (LEB) — 46 for they heard them speaking in tongues and glorifying God. Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can withhold the water for these people to be baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit as we also did!
Again, that describes the receiving of the Holy Spirit to speak in tongues, not to be saved. That is the same as they received in Acts 2:4.
Acts 11:15–17 (LEB) — 15 And as I was beginning to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as also on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 Therefore if God gave them the same gift as also to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?”

And the baptism en the Spirit is salvatory, placing those baptized in the body of Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:13 (LEB) — 13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free persons, and all were made to drink one Spirit.

You cannot rebut these scriptures, and you have no scriptures to contradict the obvious teaching of these scriptures.
There is one baptism, water baptism, with two results, namely, the forgiveness of sins and the receiving of the gift, the indwellling, the baptism, with the Holy Spirit.

The indwelling Holy Spirit received when one is [water] baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ is baptism with the Holy Spirit. The occasion of water baptism is the time when God saves. The result of that saving is the forgiveness of sin and baptism with the Holy Spirit. That is justification and regeneration.
 
But that is not what was described in Acts 2:4. Acts 2:4 was not baptism with the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 presents baptism with the Holy Spirit. The giving of the gift, the indwelling, of the Holy Spirit in water baptism is the baptism with the Holy Spirit.
First you are ignoring the point

Acts 1:5 (LEB) — 5 For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

There would be a baptism en the Holy Spirit for the first disciples (apostles included)

Second the gentiles in their reception of the Spirit are stated to have just received the same as the first disciples

Acts 10:46–47 (LEB) — 46 for they heard them speaking in tongues and glorifying God. Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can withhold the water for these people to be baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit as we also did!

Acts 11:15–17 (LEB) — 15 And as I was beginning to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as also on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 Therefore if God gave them the same gift as also to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?”

Seeing as the Gentiles had received what the first disciples would receive, i.e., the baptism en the Holy Spirit

The gentiles must have received the baptism en the Holy Spirit

This fact by itself totally refutes your theology .


Again, that describes the receiving of the Holy Spirit to speak in tongues, not to be saved. That is the same as they received in Acts 2:4.
You offer an assumption of all that was involved

We do, however, know the Gentiles received more than tongues, and their experience involved salvation.

Acts 11:12–18 (LEB) — 12 And the Spirit told me to accompany them, not hesitating at all. So these six brothers also went with me, and we entered into the man’s house. 13 And he reported to us how he had seen the angel standing in his house and saying, ‘Send to Joppa and summon Simon, who is also called Peter, 14 who will speak words to you by which you will be saved, you and all your household.’ 15 And as I was beginning to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as also on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 Therefore if God gave them the same gift as also to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?” 18 And when they heard these things, they became silent and praised God, saying, “Then God has granted the repentance leading to life to the Gentiles also!”

All you are doing is offering the assumptions of your theology while ignoring the actual text of scripture
 
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First you are ignoring the point

Acts 1:5 (LEB) — 5 For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
As I have said several times already. The only thing I am ignoring is your faulty interpretation.

The fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy In Acts 1:5 was not what happened in Acts 2:4 but rather what happened in Acts 2:38. What happened in Acts 2:4 was the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy in Acts 1:8.
Acts 10:46–47 (LEB) — 46 for they heard them speaking in tongues and glorifying God. Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can withhold the water for these people to be baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit as we also did!
In Acts 2:4: "they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. "
In Acts 10: 44-46 "the Holy Spirit fell on all them that heard the word" and "they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God".
Acts 11:15–17 (LEB) — 15 And as I was beginning to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as also on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 Therefore if God gave them the same gift as also to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?”
So the gift of the Spirit to the Gentiles of speaking in tongues was the same as the gift of the Spirit to the Jews of speaking in tongues.
Seeing as the Gentiles had received what the first disciples would receive, i.e., the baptism en the Holy Spirit

The gentiles must have received the baptism en the Holy Spirit

This fact by itself totally refutes your theology .
Nothing in Acts 2:4 or Acts 10:44-46 constituted baptism with the Holy Spirit.
We do, however, know the Gentiles received more than tongues, and their experience involved salvation.
We know nothing of the sort. There is nothing in Acts 2:4 or Acts 10:44-46 about receiving salvation.
All you are doing is offering the assumptions of your theology while ignoring the actual text of scripture
It seems quite clear you are the one that is offering the assumptions of your theology while ignoring the actual text of scripture.

There was no salvation of the Jews described in Acts 2 until verse 38 when they were told to repent and be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. It was then that they received forgiveness of their sins and the gift of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Receiving the indwelling Holy Spirit is baptism with the Holy Spirit.
 
To everyone and no one in particular...Any bolding of the body is mine for emphasis.


Acts 1:5 Meaning and explanation.

Meaning-commentary.jpg

Acts 1:5 Meaning & Explanation (with Related Verses)​

Published on: August 4, 2025 by Pastor David
“For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.”
– King James Version (KJV)


“For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized and empowered and united with the Holy Spirit, not long from now.”
– Amplified (AMP)


“John baptized in water; you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit, and soon!”
– The Message Bible (MSG)


Acts 1:5 Meaning​

Acts 1:5 is a critical moment in the New Testament where Jesus promises His disciples something monumental. After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples and instructed them not to leave Jerusalem. He mentioned that they would be baptized with the Holy Spirit shortly. This is an important distinction because it outlines two different types of baptism: the water baptism that John the Baptist performed and the baptism with the Holy Spirit that Jesus promises.

When we hear about John’s baptism, it primarily signified repentance and turning away from sin. On the other hand, the baptism with the Holy Spirit represents a new phase in God’s relationship with humanity. It signifies empowerment through the Holy Spirit, equipping believers for service. Understanding this helps us see the importance of the Holy Spirit in our spiritual journey. God does not just want us to confess our sins; He desires to fill us entirely and transform our lives. This transformation is essential for the work God has planned for us.

Popular Words of Wisdom From Acts 1:5​


“The Holy Spirit is not a power we use. The Holy Spirit is a person we welcome.” — Francis Chan


“The Spirit of God is given to the Church to fill it with divine life, to lead it in the way of holiness, and to be its enduring presence.” — John Stott


“The promise of the Holy Spirit is not just an experience, but a way of living in relationship with God.” — N.T. Wright


Acts 1:5 Context Explained​

To fully grasp Acts 1:5, it is essential to understand its context. The book of Acts begins by describing how Jesus, post-resurrection, instructed His disciples with His final earthly words. The ascension of Jesus is about to take place, and a crucial transition is occurring in the relationship between God and His people.

Jesus was on the brink of leaving, yet He didn’t leave them alone. Instead, He was going to send them the Holy Spirit. This promised event would change everything for the disciples. They were about to start a new chapter in their lives and ministry, one that empowered them to spread the Gospel effectively. This context emphasizes the urgency of waiting for the Holy Spirit’s arrival. Otherwise, going out in their own strength would render their efforts fruitless.

The phrase “not many days hence” is significant because it marks timing. It tells us that what Jesus is promising is imminent. In this period of waiting, they would prepare their hearts and minds for the power that would soon come. A few days after His ascension would lead to Pentecost, where the disciples would indeed experience this promise, leading to transforming moments in the early church.

Acts 1:5 Key Parts Explained​

Two key phrases stand out: “baptized with water” and “baptized with the Holy Spirit.” The distinction Jesus makes emphasizes that while John’s baptism served a purpose, it was a preparatory act. It was pivotal in setting the stage for what was to come. Jesus was setting up the next step in God’s salvation plan for humanity.

The phrase “baptized with the Holy Spirit” serves as a profound promise of empowerment. The Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome sin and provides guidance in our daily lives. This is not just about a feeling or an event; it’s about a constant relationship with God. When we are baptized in the Spirit, we are filled with God’s presence and power to accomplish our mission.

By pointing out this distinction, Jesus reinforces the importance of reliance on God rather than human effort. This acts as a reminder for us today; we are not on our journey alone. We have the same Holy Spirit to guide, empower, and transform us as we walk in faith.

Lessons to Learn From Acts 1:5​

Being Open to God’s Spirit​

One of the most significant lessons we draw from Acts 1:5 is the importance of being open to God’s Spirit in our lives. Often, we may think we can manage things on our own. However, this verse encourages us to let go of that notion. It teaches us to lean on God’s power rather than merely our abilities. We are not called to carry out the mission alone but in partnership with the Holy Spirit.

Understanding Our Need for Empowerment​

Another lesson we can learn is our need for divine empowerment. Just like the disciples needed to wait for the Holy Spirit, we too must recognize that facing challenges without God’s guidance can lead to frustration. The empowerment comes not from our strength or skills, but from the Holy Spirit working through us. It humbles us and places our trust in God’s perfect plan, thus allowing Him to take the center stage in our lives.

Preparation for God’s Work​

Finally, this passage teaches us about the importance of preparation. The disciples spent that time waiting, praying, and preparing their hearts before the arrival of the Holy Spirit. Likewise, we may need to dedicate ourselves to prayer, worship, and refining our relationship with God before embarking on certain missions. It prepares us spiritually, making us more effective vessels for God’s work.

Acts 1:5 Related Verses​

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…”– Acts 1:8

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”– Romans 8:14

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”– Mark 16:15

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.”– Galatians 5:22

“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.”– John 14:16

Final Thoughts​

Acts 1:5 holds significant promises for us today. It reassures us of God’s intention to empower us through the Holy Spirit. As we reflect on this verse, let us strive to create a lifestyle where we are open to God’s Spirit and intentional about our preparation. We must remember that relying on our strength is not sufficient; instead, we ought to invite the Holy Spirit into our lives continually, allowing it to shape, guide, and empower us for the mission ahead.
 
To everyone and no one in particular...Any bolding of the body is mine for emphasis.


Acts 1:5 Meaning and explanation.

Meaning-commentary.jpg

Acts 1:5 Meaning & Explanation (with Related Verses)​

Published on: August 4, 2025 by Pastor David

– King James Version (KJV)



– Amplified (AMP)



– The Message Bible (MSG)


Acts 1:5 Meaning​

Acts 1:5 is a critical moment in the New Testament where Jesus promises His disciples something monumental. After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples and instructed them not to leave Jerusalem. He mentioned that they would be baptized with the Holy Spirit shortly. This is an important distinction because it outlines two different types of baptism: the water baptism that John the Baptist performed and the baptism with the Holy Spirit that Jesus promises.

When we hear about John’s baptism, it primarily signified repentance and turning away from sin. On the other hand, the baptism with the Holy Spirit represents a new phase in God’s relationship with humanity. It signifies empowerment through the Holy Spirit, equipping believers for service. Understanding this helps us see the importance of the Holy Spirit in our spiritual journey. God does not just want us to confess our sins; He desires to fill us entirely and transform our lives. This transformation is essential for the work God has planned for us.

Popular Words of Wisdom From Acts 1:5​


“The Holy Spirit is not a power we use. The Holy Spirit is a person we welcome.” — Francis Chan


“The Spirit of God is given to the Church to fill it with divine life, to lead it in the way of holiness, and to be its enduring presence.” — John Stott


“The promise of the Holy Spirit is not just an experience, but a way of living in relationship with God.” — N.T. Wright


Acts 1:5 Context Explained​

To fully grasp Acts 1:5, it is essential to understand its context. The book of Acts begins by describing how Jesus, post-resurrection, instructed His disciples with His final earthly words. The ascension of Jesus is about to take place, and a crucial transition is occurring in the relationship between God and His people.

Jesus was on the brink of leaving, yet He didn’t leave them alone. Instead, He was going to send them the Holy Spirit. This promised event would change everything for the disciples. They were about to start a new chapter in their lives and ministry, one that empowered them to spread the Gospel effectively. This context emphasizes the urgency of waiting for the Holy Spirit’s arrival. Otherwise, going out in their own strength would render their efforts fruitless.

The phrase “not many days hence” is significant because it marks timing. It tells us that what Jesus is promising is imminent. In this period of waiting, they would prepare their hearts and minds for the power that would soon come. A few days after His ascension would lead to Pentecost, where the disciples would indeed experience this promise, leading to transforming moments in the early church.

Acts 1:5 Key Parts Explained​

Two key phrases stand out: “baptized with water” and “baptized with the Holy Spirit.” The distinction Jesus makes emphasizes that while John’s baptism served a purpose, it was a preparatory act. It was pivotal in setting the stage for what was to come. Jesus was setting up the next step in God’s salvation plan for humanity.

The phrase “baptized with the Holy Spirit” serves as a profound promise of empowerment. The Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome sin and provides guidance in our daily lives. This is not just about a feeling or an event; it’s about a constant relationship with God. When we are baptized in the Spirit, we are filled with God’s presence and power to accomplish our mission.

By pointing out this distinction, Jesus reinforces the importance of reliance on God rather than human effort. This acts as a reminder for us today; we are not on our journey alone. We have the same Holy Spirit to guide, empower, and transform us as we walk in faith.

Lessons to Learn From Acts 1:5​

Being Open to God’s Spirit​

One of the most significant lessons we draw from Acts 1:5 is the importance of being open to God’s Spirit in our lives. Often, we may think we can manage things on our own. However, this verse encourages us to let go of that notion. It teaches us to lean on God’s power rather than merely our abilities. We are not called to carry out the mission alone but in partnership with the Holy Spirit.

Understanding Our Need for Empowerment​

Another lesson we can learn is our need for divine empowerment. Just like the disciples needed to wait for the Holy Spirit, we too must recognize that facing challenges without God’s guidance can lead to frustration. The empowerment comes not from our strength or skills, but from the Holy Spirit working through us. It humbles us and places our trust in God’s perfect plan, thus allowing Him to take the center stage in our lives.

Preparation for God’s Work​

Finally, this passage teaches us about the importance of preparation. The disciples spent that time waiting, praying, and preparing their hearts before the arrival of the Holy Spirit. Likewise, we may need to dedicate ourselves to prayer, worship, and refining our relationship with God before embarking on certain missions. It prepares us spiritually, making us more effective vessels for God’s work.

Acts 1:5 Related Verses​

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…”– Acts 1:8

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”– Romans 8:14

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”– Mark 16:15

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.”– Galatians 5:22

“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.”– John 14:16

Final Thoughts​

Acts 1:5 holds significant promises for us today. It reassures us of God’s intention to empower us through the Holy Spirit. As we reflect on this verse, let us strive to create a lifestyle where we are open to God’s Spirit and intentional about our preparation. We must remember that relying on our strength is not sufficient; instead, we ought to invite the Holy Spirit into our lives continually, allowing it to shape, guide, and empower us for the mission ahead.
I can agree with most of that. However, I do have some problems with a few points. In mentioning John's baptism, it said, "When we hear about John’s baptism, it primarily signified repentance and turning away from sin." That is not quite right.

Mar 1:4 John came, who baptized in the wilderness and preached the baptism of repentance unto forgiveness of sins.

Luk 3:3 And he came into all the region round about the Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance unto forgiveness of sins;

First, the Greek word for repentance is μετάνοια [metanoia] meaning compunction (for guilt, including reformation); by implication reversal (of [another’s] decision). That is being sorry for sins committed and a turning away for sinning. It says the it was a baptism of repentance meaning that is the reason for it and what has lead up to seeking to be baptized. The actual baptism was stated as being unto forgiveness of sins. Repentance was what the one to be baptized did, Forgiveness of sins is what God did. That is an integral feature of salvation then and now. It did not primarily signify repentance and turning away from sin. It primarily brought about forgiveness of sin by God. That was, at the time, a salvation act of God. It lacked the regeneration of the New Covenant to be instituted later at Pentecost.

So then how did that differ from the baptism that Peter preached on the day of Pentecost?

Act 2:38 And Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Peter preached a baptism, in the name of Jesus Christ, of repentance for the forgiveness of sin and for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. But indwelling of the Holy Spirit is baptism of the Holy Spirit.

And additional comment. The article stated;

Acts 1:5 Related Verses​

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…”– Acts 1:8
However, Acts 1:8 is a reference to the Holy Spirit falling upon them to produce the speaking in tongues (Acts 2:5). It is not about the baptism with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).

Then in the final thoughts the article stated;

Final Thoughts​

Acts 1:5 holds significant promises for us today. It reassures us of God’s intention to empower us through the Holy Spirit. As we reflect on this verse, let us strive to create a lifestyle where we are open to God’s Spirit and intentional about our preparation. We must remember that relying on our strength is not sufficient; instead, we ought to invite the Holy Spirit into our lives continually, allowing it to shape, guide, and empower us for the mission ahead.

I don't disagree with that, but it is rather weak. It is not just that "we ought to invite the Holy Spirit into our lives continually"; rather, it is that we ought to repent and be baptized in order for God to forgive our sins and to give us the Holy Spirit to dwell in us permanently, i.e., baptize us with the Holy Spirit, so long as we maintain our faith in God, allowing it to shape, guide and empower us for the mission ahead.
 
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