[continued from previous message]   
      
   The reply of the disciples was, “We have not so much as heard whether there   
   is a Holy Spirit,” or as it is rendered in the ASV, “We did not so much   
   as hear whether the Holy Spirit was given.” Since these men were disciples   
   of John the Baptist, as we learn in the next verse, they should have known   
   about the existence of the Holy Spirit from the OT. Not only so, but John had   
   taught his disciples that the One who came after him would baptize them with   
   the Holy Spirit. What these disciples did not know was that the Holy Spirit   
   had already been given on the Day of Pentecost. [BBC]   
      
   The teachings of 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:” (Mat 3:11)   
      
   This very much concerns and is proof of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, given   
   to the believers, and is also mentioned in Romans 8:9-10 as a defining mark   
   of those who are of the redeemed ones, and who is not.   
      
   Yet once ones eyes are opened, they can see throughout the Bible the work of   
   the Holy Spirit in the lives of men as well as the distinct and clear   
   differences of His work within men for those of the NT church verses the OT.   
      
   Water Baptism is for the Believer After they Accept Jesus as their Saviour   
   and after the Baptism by Jesus of the Holy Spirit with in us. Thought the   
   reading of the Acts of the Apostles, from the day of Pentecost onwards this   
   has been and still is the case.   
      
   How did the people know that those new to Christ were in dwelt with the Holy   
   Spirit? For they heard them speak with other tongues. You can read that   
   throughout the book of Acts, and elsewhere.   
      
   Currently these things are not taught, as they should be in all places. In   
   part because of the old school ways superseding the teachings of Christ.   
      
   Today, many are walking in the shoes of those believers mentioned in Acts   
   1:1-2 because of poor teaching Which is one one the reasons I strongly   
   recommend reading the word an searching the Heart of the Heavenly Father thus   
   committing ones heart to our most gracious Father, the Heavenly Father.   
      
   Yes, we can learn from others, however, let the Lord confirm the word to your   
   personal hearts. Do Not allow false pride to rule in your hearts thus   
   quenching the Holy Spirit. Embarrassment of the work of God though you is a   
   work of Satan trying to inhibit you from sharing the Glory of God and thus   
   benefitting others.   
      
   --- SoupGate-DOS v1.05   
    * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)