It is plainly taught in the scriptures that speaking with tongues was not an unusual occurrence in the early church. Every prominent account of conversions in the apostolic church either plainly states or else strongly implies that the convert did speak with other tongues upon being filled with the Spirit of God. (See Acts 2:1-4, Acts 8:12-18, Acts 10:44-48, Acts 19:1-6.) To the above most Bible students would agree.
It is when we discuss the place of tongues in the present Christian church that controversy arises. There are three general lines of thinking on this subject: 1. Tongues have ceased. 2. Tongues are optional. 3. All who receive the Holy Ghost do speak with tongues.
Seeing that these positions are opposed one to the other, it is required of every sincere person to “Search the scriptures; for in them ye THINK ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” (John 5:39) “ . . . Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” (Phil. 2:12) We all must stand before the judgment seat of Christ. We all must give account of ourselves to Almighty God. Since every individual is responsible to God alone for his salvation, let us cast aside the opinions of men and consider each of these positions in light of the scriptures.
Tongues Have Ceased
We have chosen to examine this position first because if this be true, there is no need to investigate the doctrine of “speaking with tongues” any farther.
Let us begin by establishing more thoroughly what is believed by the proponents of this doctrine and reasons given for this belief. It is believed that the Apostles actually did speak in other languages under the influence of the Spirit of God. It is also conceded that those with whom the Apostles had contact also received what is sometimes called the “miraculous gift of the Holy Ghost” (speaking with tongues). It is dogmatically asserted, however, by those of this persuasion that no one after the Apostolic era could possibly receive the Holy Ghost, speaking with tongues. The reason given for the sudden halt to this glorious experience is that all miraculous manifestations of God to the church ceased upon the death of the Apostles and of those with whom the Apostles had contact. The lone scripture given to support this theory is I Corinthians 13:8-12
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. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: But when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall 1 know even as I am known.
Notice that verse 8 is a prophecy that some day tongues will cease. There is no doubt about it. There will be a time according to the Bible when men will no longer speak with other tongues as the spirit gives utterance. The question we must answer is: “When did this prophecy actually state that tongues would cease?” Verse 10 identifies the time as “. . . when that which is perfect is come.”
Those who contend that tongues have ceased teach that “that which is perfect” refers to the New Testament scriptures, and that upon completion of the New Testament all speaking with tongues ceased. However, there are several discrepancies in this argument. Notice that at the same time tongues are to cease, verse 8 teaches that some other things are also to be discontinued.
“. . . whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.” Whenever tongues are to cease, knowledge is also to cease. If knowledge has not yet ceased, then tongues have not ceased either. Now we know definitely that knowledge has not ceased. We still have colleges, seminaries, Bible studies. etc. If knowledge has ceased, why are you now reading this article?
“. . . whether there be prophecies, they shall fail..” At the same time tongues are to cease, prophecies are to cease. Now if tongues have ceased already, that means prophecy has also ceased never to be resumed. This, however, is contrary to the scriptures. For the scriptures teach that during the tribulation, a time yet to come, two witnesses shall prophesy for three and a half years. (Rev. 11:3) Since prophecy has not yet ceased and since knowledge has not yet been discontinued, then it is very evident that neither have tongues ceased. It is also shown since tongues have not ceased that “that which is perfect” referred to in I Cor. 13:10 is not the New Testament. Certainly the New Testament is perfect, but there are many other things which are also perfect. Jesus Christ was perfect, but he did not cause a halt to speaking with tongues. The gift of the Holy Ghost was perfect, yet the speaking with tongues accompanied the Holy Ghost. So we see it is necessary to study the context of this passage in order to know the time indicated by “when that which is perfect is come.”
In this connection let us look closely at verse 12: “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” Now, seeing through a glass darkly refers to our present mortal state. Then face to face speaks of the time when “that which is perfect” is come. When shall we see Jesus face to face? At the return of Jesus for His church, whereupon we shall be changed from mortal beings to immortal beings. (I Cor. 15:50-54, I Thess. 4:13-18) This is when we shall see Him face to face, and this is when we shall know even as we are known. Do any of us now know Jesus as He knows us? No! We merely know Him in part, but THEN (when that which is perfect is come) shall we know even as we are known. He knows the number of hairs on our heads. He knows our downsittings and our uprisings. We do not know Him that fully now, but we shall some day know as we are known.
In view of the above we can see that “. . . when that which is perfect is come” refers to the time when we have received our immortal bodies and are in the presence of the Lord forever. It is at this time that tongues shall cease, knowledge shall vanish, and prophecies shall fail. Knowledge will vanish because we shall know all things. Tongues will cease because the fundamental function of tongues is to speak mysteries unto God. “For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.” (I Cor. 14:2) When we stand face to face before the throne of God, there will be no need to speak mysteries in the spirit.
We see then, that there is absolutely no support for the teaching that tongues have ceased. If the original church of Jesus Christ practiced speaking with tongues, why shouldn’t the present church of Jesus Christ speak with tongues? Did not the Lord promise through the Apostle Peter on the day of Pentecost. “For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” (Acts 2:39) He was referring to the gift of the Holy Ghost accompanied by speaking with tongues; and Peter was saying that it was promised to those who were yet afar off. This includes people in our present time. If God has promised it to us, why not believe it, embrace it, and receive it?!
Tongues-Optional or Necessary?
There are two principal schools of thought among those who believe that speaking with tongues should be in the Christian’s life today. The first view states that some people who receive the Holy Ghost do speak with tongues, while others who receive it do not. The second teaching holds that all who receive the Holy Ghost do speak with tongues, and that tongues is the sign that a person is being filled with the spirit.
The first question that we must answer then is, “In the early church did all who received the Holy Ghost speak with tongues?” Let us examine the historical record given to us in the book of Acts. There are four in-depth accounts of people receiving the Holy Ghost. The first of these is found in Acts 2:1-4.
And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 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.
Notice that here they were ALL filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues. All who received the Holy Ghost here spake with other tongues. Now let us look at another instance found in Acts 10:44-46.
While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God.
Here again, all who received the Holy Ghost did speak with tongues. Further, this scripture teaches that the way they knew that these individuals received the Holy Ghost was “for they heard them speak with tongues.” It is evident that speaking with tongues was the sign that people had been filled with the Holy Ghost.
Acts 19:6 records: “And when Paul laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.”
Again in this record of the Holy Ghost outpouring, we see that those receiving the Holy Ghost did speak with tongues.
The last account of people receiving the Holy Ghost which we would like to discuss is found in Acts 8:14-19.
Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (for as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus). Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. And when Simon saw that through laying on of 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.
This is the only full account of conversion in the book of Acts (the history book of the early church) which does not specifically state that those who received the Holy Ghost did speak with other tongues. However, if we will study the above passage we can show that they did in fact speak with tongues when they received the Holy Ghost at Samaria. The author of the book of Acts merely did not explicitly say that they spake with tongues because by this time it was an accepted fact that tongues was the accompanying sign of the Holy Ghost.
Notice here the setting. The Samaritans had believed and had been baptized. (Verse 12.) Yet Peter and John came down from Jerusalem to pray for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost. (“For as yet he was fallen upon none of them:”) Now the question is, “How did they know that the Holy Ghost had fallen upon none of them?” Was it not because they had not heard them speak with tongues? Then verse 17 emphatically declares, “Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.” How did they know they had now received the Holy Ghost? There obviously was a sign. Let’s go on to verses 18 and 19. This passage states that Simon SAW that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given. Now, if there were no visible manifestations accompanying the Holy Ghost, what did Simon see? Also notice what Simon the sorcerer did. He offered the apostles money, saying, “Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.” Why would Simon offer money for the power to lay hands on people that they might receive the Holy Ghost? Simply because he had watched the apostles lay their hands on the people and had seen them begin to speak with other tongues as the spirit gave utterance. He thought within himself. “If I could lay my hands on people and they would speak in other languages that they had never learned before, that could be turned into quite a money-making proposition.” So we see that even though Acts 8 does not say they spake with tongues when they received the Holy Ghost, it is very evident that they actually did. If you ask a shoe clerk to bring you a pair of shoes, you don’t say, “And be sure to bring the tongues.” You know when you get the shoes that you get the tongues of the shoes along with them. The same is true with the Holy Ghost. Acts 8 did not say that they spake with tongues because the author assumed by this time everyone knew that when an individual receives the Holy Ghost, he does speak with tongues!
Thus we see that in every account of the outpouring of the Holy Ghost in the early church the recipients did speak with other tongues when they were filled. Acts 2—tongues. Acts 8—tongues. Acts 10—tongues. Acts 19—tongues. If every time they received the Holy Ghost they spake with tongues, why should we believe that we have received the Holy Ghost without speaking with tongues? Mark 16:17— “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they SHALL SPEAK WITH NEW TONGUES.”
If tongues are not the sign that a person has received the Holy Ghost, how are we to know that we have received it? Some say that a person receives the spirit automatically when he believes. (See Acts 19) Others contend that the spirit comes when an individual is baptized. Those holding the above views insist that we must accept by faith that we have received the spirit with no outward manifestation or definite spiritual experience. Can these teachings stand the test of the scriptures?
Acts 8:12 records: “But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” Notice! These Samaritans had believed and had been baptized. According to the foregoing doctrines, these people should have now had the Holy Ghost. Yet Acts 8:14-16 plainly tells us that Peter and John “when they were come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them;)” They hadn’t received the Holy Ghost! What does this teach us then? Even though we may have believed and also been baptized, this does not mean we have received the Holy Ghost. How then can we know that we have received the Holy Ghost? How did the apostles know when Cornelius’ household received it in Acts 10:46? “For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God.” What more proof do we need? When you receive the Holy Ghost you will know it; for you will speak with other tongues as the spirit gives utterance.
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1Cr 12:4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
1Cr 12:5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord.
1Cr 12:6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.
1Cr 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit [of all]:
1Cr 12:8 for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit,
1Cr 12:9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same [fn] Spirit,
1Cr 12:10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another [different] kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.
1Cr 12:11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills
The way i read the bible, in corinthians, tongues is one of the gifts of the holy spirit, and there are numerous gifts and tongues is as i read it one of the lesser gifts and we are told to vie for the better gifts, but tongues is just as legitimate a gift as any of the others. thanks.
Everyone who received the Holy Ghost in the Biblical accounts did speak in tongues!!! So believe what you want. But this teaching is very timely and correct. Either your beliefs line up with scripture or they are wrong !!!
My take on this is that GODS WORD IS TRUTH!!!
Excellent teaching on the Holy Ghost and tongues. Love it!!!
Im surprised that you havent mentioned the great imitator SATAN. While tongues is of God,there is a movement that is evil and it imitates tongues but the very noticeable difference is that they thrash around and its obvious they are demonic.Kundalini…Please expound on this!!!!
This topic is not complete until it is compared with the gifts of the Spirit as stated in 1 Corinthian 13 -14. Because “speaking in tongues” is one of the gifts. My take is that one can be filled with the Holy Spirit without speaking in tongue since the Spirit could give other gifts like prophesy, healing etc!!!!!
i got healed by praying in tongues for hours every day.Believers we have the gift of praying in tongues,its our most powerful weapon.When we dont know how to pray for our families and our communities we can pray in tongues and get the answers.
Dr. Baxter this article has been a blessing to me; I have used it to share with others to present the positive side of the argument concerning tongues. Thank you for writing this!
I hear preachers say the antichricst can’t be revealed until THE CHURCH is taken away
But I know the bible says HE and the church is always a SHE. What is the HE the bible
Is referring to? Thanks and I now believe the rapture will follow the tribulation because
Of this ministry. God Bless
The “he” in 2 Thessalonians 2:7 is not referring to the church because Revelation 13:7 specifically shows the Antichrist warring against the saints. Saints are definitely a part of the church. Also in the first four verses of 2 Thessalonians 2 Paul taught that the second coming and the rapture could not happen until there was a falling away first and the man of sin was revealed. The “he” in verse seven also cannot be the Holy Spirit. Daniel 11 shows the people who know there God during the tribulation will be strong and do exploits. Revelation 11 also shows the two witnesses ministering during that time. The power that these people will use will inevitably be the same power that the church uses today which comes from the Holy Ghost.
To understand who the “he” is you have to understand verse 6. It plainly tells us that the factor holding the Antichrist back is time. This makes perfect sense because of the prophecy of Daniel 9:27. We learn here that in the middle of the final 7 years the abomination of desolation will take place. This is when the Antichrist reveals himself, so God has foretold the specific timing of revealing of the Antichrist. God’s word is forever settle so there is no way that the Antichrist can be revealed at any other time. So God’s timing is the factor. So the “he” in 2 Thessalonians 2:7 is referring to God or his timing. Many jump to the conclusion that the phrase “taken out of the way” refers to being completely removed from the scene. However if I am blocking traffic with a cone in the middle of the road, I can move that cone to the side of the road and traffic would begin to flow yet the cone would still be on the road. So God has determined the time that the Antichrist will be revealed and until that time is met the Antichrist cannot be revealed.
oops Christian Television Network!
Debra: I was raised in a Pentecostal church all of my life but would NEVER yield to such a thing as speaking in tongues. That just seemed so wierd, and I have to admit it, that pride made me feel that speaking in tongues was beneath me. But, this year watching the GREAT AWAKENING on Christina Television Networl (CTN) which was on LIVE for 3 hours straight every night. The Holy Spirit gave me such an urge to want to speak in tongues that I finally gave in with God’s help. And, now I speak in tongues often. I used to think that some great feeling had to come over you and forcibly make different sounds come out of you. Until I learned what Sid Roth teaches that, of course, as in speaking any other language, you willfully just start speaking and stop when you want to. Look up Sid Roth’s teaching on Speaking in Tongues on the internet. He taught the entire viewing audience one night on his show, “It’s Supernatural.” Sid Roth is a Jew who used to be in the New Age “movement” and has been around the block a time or two and he wouldn’t live without speaking in tongues. I won’t either from now on!!!
I was 11 years old when my 14 year old brother, who had been filled with the Holy Spirit, came up to me, touched my lips and said “speak sister.” The very last thing I was thinking about was speaking in tongues since it worried me that this person standing in front of me didn’t seem like my brother anymore. However, I immediately began speaking in another language, no babbling, just clearly. This gift has been a blessing to me all my life! However, I know some dear Christian people who are afraid of yielding to God’s presence and speak, but I’ve seen them shake all over. I also think of people who might be mute but be filled with the Holy Spirit. I don’t believe these people are not great Christians and that the presence of the Holy Spirit is not with them or in them. However, I believe surrendering to the Holy Spirit allows this wonderful gift to speak the needs that only the Holy Spirit knows and must bypass our natural, intellectual systems that limit our understanding. God can speak through us and accomplish great things and I have seen them happen!
This article is very interesting, however I hold to the belief that tongues have ceased since the Bible has been completed. All the knowledge we need is contained in the scriptures, and all study of God and all things Spiritual is contained in the Bible. I also believe that prophecies have ceased. As far as the two Witnesses in Revelations they shall prophesy that which has already been determined in and spoken in God’s word. Just my humble opinion
We would have to disagree. All knowledge has not vanished away. The world is still learning, and technology is progressing at an enormous rate. Prophecies have not failed, because not all of them have been accomplished. God bless.
Eeeeeweeeee this was some fire right here, Big shout out to the producer of this study and article
I’m a pentecostal but I still had to check up on my doctrines so i was curious to see if speaking in tongues meant speaking in an unknown language so I looked up the greek word for “other” (as in acts 2:4) in a strongs bible concordance and one of its meanings was “strange” so I looked that up in a dictionary and it meant not previously known or experienced. So it became clear that the person would speak in a language he didn’t know but that still didn’t mean that others would not know it so I read more of acts and I found that the people there were mocking those who were speaking in tongues and calling them drunk and I realized that if they were speaking in a known language then why were they being mocked and being called drunk because drunks don’t speak in a clear language they speak in their own language and another thing if speaking in tongues means speaking in a known language then why would you need an interpreter (1Cor. 14:13-14) if you are already speaking in a known language to those around you.
Kevin,
Thanks MUCH for that! I have wondered about where the scripture clarifies that for years. this asnwers a lot for me. i do believe there is a paticular gift of the Spirit whreby people DO also speak in other actual languages-but it is a rare gifting indeed. The vast majority of people who speak in their “prayer language” speak in unintelligible speech-clearly a “strange” language, but one I suspect the angels are familiar with. thanks again.
Don
No problem
I really like your teaching about tongues: I am going to use it in one of my blogs: http://cjispirit.blogspot.com/ or http://stcji.blogspot.com/: I am amazed that Christians even after reading your teaching about tongues; still will not and or do want it; Still some call it from the Devil;; Wow! They who call it from the Devil are in danger!
I ask this; Why would you not want to be able to speak in tongues? We read in Jude 1:20. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Praying in tongues builds up your faith: How can one pray without ceasing? In 1 Corinthians 13:1. Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.( Here Paul calls speaking in tongues the language angles:
If speaking in tongues is just people supernaturally speaking a new earthly language of men on earth that they did not know, but now can speak; then there is a lot of people who are not saved who speak in tongues!
We read here in 1 Corinthians 14:2. For he that speaks in an unknown tongue speaks not to men, but to God: for no man understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. (speaking in tongues men CAN NOT Understand:) Remember Jesus is the way and the truth; We must all remain teachable!
1 Cor 12:30…….not all speak in tongues. God, through the Holy Spirit, gives gifts to men as HE desires. To imply that if there is no tongues, there is no Holy Spirit in you is to say that you are not saved unless you have spoken in tongues. This flies in the face of John 3:16, Acts 16:30-31, and MANY other passages that say that our salvation is a gift of grace, through faith, and that not of ourselves, lest anyone boast. I am just saying that there have been years of division caused by one side, or the other asserting that it’s their way, or you’ve missed the glory. The truth is that scriptures actually do teach that some do and some don’t. There is NO exit point for any of the gifts, including the apostolic gift. Just isn’t there. Inferring things just isn’t wise.
It is important to understand that what Paul was dealing with in 1 Corinthians is not the same thing as what occurs when a person is initially filled with the Holy Ghost. In 1 Corinthians 14 Paul is dealing with the gift of tongues. Paul tells the church that it is ok for them to desire spiritual gifts. So obviously these are things that do not come naturally when one receives the Holy Ghost. However, Acts 2:4 tells us, that the Holy Ghost gives people the utterance of tongues. So it is important to understand that these are two different subjects. Even in 1 Corinthians 14 Paul does not condemn speaking in tongues. In verse 5 Paul said that he wanted everyone to speak with tongues but, in the church he would rather them prophesy. The reason for this was so that the church would be edified. Paul also said in verse 18 that he speaks in tongues more than all of them, yet in the church he would rather speak 5 words of understanding than 10,000 words in an unknown tongue. This is all for the purpose of edifying the church. In no way does he speak against speaking in tongues. Remember Acts 2:4 that the Holy Ghost is what gives the utterance of speaking in tongues. So when a person is filled with the Holy Ghost, the Holy Ghost will cause that person to speak in tongues. This holds true throughout the book of Acts. In Acts 10:44-46 the people that were with Peter were astonished that the Holy Ghost fell on the gentiles. How did they know that the gentiles received the Holy Ghost? Verse 46 says, for they heard them speak with tongues. In Acts 19, the disciples of John also received the Holy Ghost and the Bible records that they spoke with tongues. So it is obvious that the Holy Ghost did exactly what Acts 2:4 says. The Holy Ghost causes people to speak in tongues when it fills them.
Derrick,
Excellent reply to those who don’t understand the difference between Gift of Tongues and tongues received with infilling of Holy Spirit and used in our personal prayer life with God. Your clarification needs to be added to the teaching.
My apologies. http://www.ConfirmingTheWord.com
For a Book-length, free study on the gifts of the Holy Spirit, including speaking in tongues, and the difference between “unknown” tongue and “diverse” tongues, go to http://www.ConfirmingThe Word.com
If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Luke 11:13
One question for those who may have a better understanding of this than I do. Several people reference the “unknown tongues” talked about in 1 Cor. 14 as being something that no man can understand. In the King James Version, the word “unknown” is italicized indicating that it was not in the original text but added by the translators. Also, in verse 13 it says “let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret” so that it may be edifying. If this is truly an “unknown” tongue to be understood only by God, why and how would it be interpretted? Is it possible that this is speaking of another language (as in Acts 2) of which there is no other there to interpret? Finally, Romans 8:26 states, “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” Would this not be the “praying in the Spirit” that we often hear referenced which would be different than speaking in tongues? Thanks for any clarification you can provide on this.
Let me expand on this by saying that I grew up believing that tongues have ceased. This is what I was taught in church concerning 1 Cor 13:8. After much independent study, I no longer believe that for the very same reasons stated in this article, but I also came to a different understanding of tongues than most people I know that believe they still exist. Obviously, I have not experienced this for myself. I am trying to gain a better understanding of the spiritual gifts as a whole. It is not easy for someone who has dismissed them for so long. This also makes me wonder exactly what would be classified as blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. Any thoughts?
Chet, praying in the spirit is using the tongues in your personal prayer life with God — unknown language, utterance, groanings, etc. that we cannot understand – but as the word says we are praying directly to God himself according to his perfect will. The Gift of Tongues is different and for the church and that’s why one can use the Gift of Tongues in a group(i.e. church) and also interpret or maybe they give the message and someone else interprets. I received the ability to speak in tongues in May 1966 in a small Assembly of God church…had only been there a few times….I had no idea what speaking in tongues. In a revival there one night though I was a born again christian I felt impressed to go down for the alter call. To myself I was talking with God and saying “I cant go down to the alter, people will think I want to be saved and God I am already saved…God said – just go. I immediately went to the alter. And indeed the Evangelist came over and started telling me how to be saved….not knowing or even thinking about what I was fixing to say – I blurted out to him….I am saved and seeking baptism of the holy spirit. I didn’t even know that terminology much less about tongues. Instantly, I began to pray in words that obviously were not english. My language has grown from just a few words to a massive vocabulary of unknown words. I thank God for this experience because particularly when I am overwhelmed with life and life’s events and challenges, I simply pray in the spirit. As the word says, praying in the spirit to God builds you up in the spirit…..oh my gosh, I am living proof. Through one tragedy after the other over 40 years I have watched and been amazed at God carry me through these events and empower me with his strength and love. It is very real.
Glory to God…!!! This teaching is AWESOME! The last line speaks volumes to me… “When you receive the Holy Ghost you will know it; for you will speak with other tongues as the spirit gives utterance.”
I experienced HIM for myself! And I’m SO greateful!
Your sis in Christ
Nell
Please read my post sister.Let us not accuse for it’s only Satan who’s the accuser of the brethren.We as christians sometimes make mistakes but this doesn’t mean we are “false prophets”.I thank God for people like Benny and Kenneth and Jimmy Swaggart and etc for answering the call to serve God and reach out to the lost world.Let’s pray for these people instead and stop looking at their weakness.Fix our eyes on Jesus only.
We all agree that Peter was given the “keys” (authority) by Jesus. Therefore, we must accept the message that Peter preached on the day of Pentecost concerning Salvation is the correct message; “…repent, and be baptised everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission (removal, washing away) of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”
If that message changed (ie: accept Jesus as your personal savior):
1. When did it change?
2. Who was given the authority to change it?
Just as these questions need to be answered by all as individuals, so we must all answer the question:
Who, and by what authority, changed the “sign” of the infilling of the Holy Ghost?
Last night i heard Baxter talking about national ID , I started to wonder whats the big deal. why is the united states so afraid of a national ID, Don’t all American citizens already have a number ?????? Social security (is this the mark of the Beast ) the bible clearly states you will receive a mark on your hand or forehead. how does this relate to a ID card……….
It’s another step toward the mark of the beast.
the way I read it tongues refers to other languages that are not our native tongue. i don’t believe the babel i have heard some people making at churches that talk in tongues is the right interpretation. Irvin here also uses the word language. to refer to tongues.
thats right
The bible speaks of an “unkonw tongue” and a “other tongues” look it up…and see what you come up with.
This response below is not my own…but I do agree with it…scripture ref the Other Tongues of Acts 2 and The Unknown Tongue of I Corinthians 14: Jjust thought it might shed some light…see below
Blessings
The other tongues in Jerusalem edified the listeners whereas the unknown tongue in Corinth edified the speaker.
It is clear that the ‘other tongues’ of Jerusalem were meant for others whereas the unknown tongue of Corinth was meant for the believer alone unless it could be interpreted.
I can go on and on but I suppose you get the point that at the least a possibility exists that the ‘other tongues’ mentioned in Acts 2 and the ‘unknown tongue’ mentioned in I Cor. are not the same. While the word Tongue in both instances means LANGUAGE, in the one instance it means human languages whereas in the other it means A SPIRITUAL LANGUAGE. So what if false prophets like Benny Hinn and Kenneth Copeland promote the doctrine of tongues? The devil himself quotes scripture frequently; this does not make scripture false, does it? So just because false prophets are promoting doctrines, it does not necessarily make the doctrines false!
This subject needs more careful study. I do not speak in other tongues, as in different languages, but I do speak in an unknown tongue because I know it is biblical and it edifies the believer. God willing and time permitting I will continue this study and present my conclusions in much greater detail.
Bro. Baxter,
That speech you just read that was given by the leader of Iran was not a speech (Per Say) it was a sermon. It was made up of many shorter sermons. I’m sure he wasn’t the writer, only the reader.
Do you think the UN would welcome several of the other participants doing sermons of their religion in place of a regular speech? I think there’d be a lot of complaining as those people are not there for a religious service. That fellows a phony! The message was good, but coming from his mouth made it sound as phony as he is. Your friend and Sister in Christ.
Is it possible to be filled with the Holy Ghost and NOT speak in tongues?
The Spirit of God moved on people before Jesus Christ but after His ascension there was a consistent sign when people were filled with the Holy Ghost. The continual sign found in scripture is speaking with tongues. Acts 2:4 seals this issue when it tells us the it is the Spirit, the Holy Ghost, that gives the utterance of tongues. So according to the Bible, when a person is filled with the Holy Ghost, the Holy Ghost will cause that person to speak in tongues.
If speaking in tongues is another language that someone, somewhere understands, then doesn’t that mean that you should travel to that area and teach the gospel where those who speak and understand that language resides? How can I find out what language I’m speaking if it is a language I don’t know or understand? I’m questioning as to whether today’s church is doing the right thing when it comes to speaking in tongues. We mostly spend time with one another and not those who speak other languages. I guess i’m similiar to the earlier post by CJ on Aug 22.
go with that
That is not always the case. We have that example in Acts 2 at the first outpouring of the Holy Ghost but Paul tells us that when we speak in tongues no man understands in 1 Corinthians 14. So there are times when tongues are understood by others and times when they are not. The church never traveled and ministered in tongues because they did not know what language they were speaking. The Holy Ghost causes the utterance of tongues so the individual does not know what they are saying.
1 cor is a letter of admonishment
Greetings in Christ Jesus. Former member of an Apostalic, Fundamental Pentecostal Church here, where the teaching was that you had to show speaking in tongues as the evidence of the Holy Ghost inside of you. I have no problem with that, however, the Lord led me to comment with this scripture please if you don’t mind. 1 Cor. 12:1-31, I see Paul wrapping this subject up. The Apostle does say speaking in tongues is relevent, but He also precieves that perhaps a bit of controversy within the church, (the body of Christ), would form. I believe he was trying to set us straight that some gifts, including tongues, were manifestations of the Holy Ghost, but not all would manifest having the spirit the same way. It shows variance. He also goes on to explain that some gifts were to be wanted by members more than others, but the Lord would outfit the saints with the gifts that He wanted within the body too. Makes sense I think. His will be done, Amen. But Paul’s comment “do all speak in tongues?” was the point that got me a bit. Maybe not all were. But maybe he was making the point that gifts varied and the acceptance of the folks was utmost, even saying that less coveted gifts were to be admonished and given promotion and more honour than expected, so that: “,.,,the ear could not reject the eye…” so to speak, and that the whole body was diverse but filled and augmented by the same Holy Ghost in the Holy Spirit. Then, on top of this Paul mentions he has a better comment, a more prudent way: …” though I speak with the tongues of men and angels and have not charity, I am like sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal..” etc., please forgive me if I don’t have the whole scripture right, but I think you understand my point. So, we seek the truth, and Rev. Baxter definitely has a wonderful gift so exceeding in prophecy and teachings, Amen, and speaking in tongues as the spirit gives utterance is extremely important, yes it is, but we know Satan is like a snake weaving througout the church to start adversity and trouble, so let us think and pray on this scripture from the Apostle Paul in 1 Cor. 12. I think the Lord Jesus Christ of Nazareth will surely supply us with an answer if everyone today in the church must speak in other tongues to have the evidence of the Holy Ghost. I know the references were correct from the Acts and it did show that tongues were present when the Holy Ghost filled the people, but I do believe we need to discern this scripture from Paul.
May God Bless you all at EndTime Ministries.
Prayerfully yours, Raymond
Thank you
Hello, I just wanted to add to your comment that I believe speaking in tongues is the initial sign of the baptism by the Holy Spirit as occurred in the early church, however I also believe that some people who are so baptized, continue to speak in tongues as a spiritual gift, while others receive other spiritual gifts, such as interpretation, spiritual discernment, etc. So I believe that everyone who receives the baptism by the Holy Spirit speaks in tongues as the initial evidence of baptism by the Holy Spirit, but not everyone will receive the gift of speaking in tongues.
I hear some people babbling on and on and they say the same thing everytime they start babling. Im pretty good with languages and sounds, im bi lingual and I pick up when someone is just babling. I think it is of the devil. During pentacost, the diciples were speaking in other languages being understood by those who could hear them. That is the miracle. If Im wrong, Ill just take it up with HIM on judgement day. Maranatha!!!
Sometimes people do just babble, and satan has a conterfeit. There are real Christians, and counterfeit christians. Some people sit in the church, pretend to be christians, but have been put there by satan to try to destroy the church. You can read about it in the first 3 chapters of Revelation. There’s a free Bible study site, with a full-length book on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Maybe it could be helpful to you. http://www.ConfirmingTheWord.com
true
Hello, I would be very very careful about referring to the evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit of God, speaking with tongues, as being of the devil. If you don’t understand, then be silent, but do not accuse manifestations of the Holy Spirit as being evil.
We are shown in Acts 2 that the people filled with the Holy Ghost spoke in languages that were known to others but unknown to themselves. The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 14:2 that when men speak in tongues, they speak to God and no man understands. Again in 1 Corinthians 13:1 we find that Paul mentions speaking with the tongues of angels. So the Bible indicates to us that there are occasions when people speak in tongues and others can understand and there are times when people speak in tongues and no man understands. The important thing to realize is that the Holy Ghost gives the utterance according to Acts 2:4.
Acts 8:12 states both women and men were baptized, however, what biblical scriptures show women spoke in tongues (and received the Holy Ghost)?
The Bible teaches us that women also spoke in tongues and we learn this in Acts 1-2. Acts 1:13-14 says, “And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.” So in the upper room we find Mary and other women along with the disciples. This is the group that received the Holy Ghost in Acts 2. Notice what Acts 2:4 says. It tells us that they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and spoke in tongues as the Spirit gave the utterance. So Mary and the other women who were there spoke in tongues.
spoke in foriegn languages refer to acts 2:16-18 they all prophesy . to speak or preach Gods gospel . this is the prophecy of joel 2:28-32.
Speaking in in tongues
means means speacking speacking in in
another another language language . .
Thank you, thank you. . .thank you! After having spent many years in a Pentecostal church, I sought God myself about this whole topic of speaking in tongues, etc. I wanted to know. . .not because it was a doctrine taught in and a common practice within the church, but because God revealed it to me. (By the way, I was baptized in the Holy Spirit and experienced and practiced speaking in tongues, prophecy, etc.) During my personal search, I wound up in a most amazing, loving Baptist church where the pastor had a Ph.D. in various Bible topics. I learned many things here that I had not learned before. The Word spoken, taught and preached there was like nothing I had experienced before. . .NONETHELESS, there were times that even the pastor and various certain other leaders within that local congregation were literally a hairs width away from speaking in tongues, but refrained because of their denominational teachings/beliefs, etc. GOD FINALLY REVEALED TO ME THAT THIS EXPERIENCE IS REAL AND OF HIM!! Again, thank you for your excellently written and researched document. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!
to speak in tongues is a good thing
I love the Holy Spirit and I am so grateful to Jesus for Babtizing me with the Holy Ghost. I remember many years ago in the 80′s when I went to minister with other Spirit filled believers in Norfolk Prison. We had a prayer meeting and service for prisoners that were seeking the Lord, and the Holy Spirit came on me and I spoke in a prophetic tungue. One of the prisoners understood it, and gave the interpretation because it was in his native tongue of “Capverdian.” Isn’t our God good!
I have read Bro Holmans books , one about Norfolk. He was my pastor a short time while I was in Burleson Tex after he left Norfolk. Its amazing that the work of God continues..
The New Testament church originated in the book of Acts on the day of Pentecost ch.2. All were filled with the Holy Ghost and spoke in tongues, and were baptized in the name of Jesus all throughout the book of Acts(2:38). How can anyone think it’s devilish.
I am a washed in the blood of Jesus, Holy Ghost filled believer so it has to be for us afar off and as far as the babble goes that you speak of in today’s churches it is not confusion. Above mentions 1 Cor. 14:2 For he that speaks an unknown tounge speaks not to men but to God…. I speak in tounges when I pray period!! It doesn’t matter if I am at home praying or if I am at church. I have also given interpretations of messages spoken in tounges at home and at church. The Holy Ghost is here as our comforter as we spread the good news that God’s plan for salvation is completed thanks to the perfect sacrafice Jesus! The Holy Ghost is more than speaking in tounges! That is just outward proof of the dwelling of the spirit in us. The Holy Ghost helps me in making every day choices such as responding here and now to your comment. Helps me to know how to pray for someone and so much more! I have even felt that peace that passes all understanding (Holy Ghost gives comfort) during a stressful situation numerous times!
The miracle was that everyone heard in their own language. No matte what language someone was speaking, they heard it in their own native language. Well said Mark. Speaking in tongues simply means speacking in another language. God performed this miracle so the gospel could spread more easily.Very smart. The common practice of churches today of babling in some unknowable language is not what was happening in the Apostles’ time. God is not the author of confusion. God caused the men in Acts to speak in other languages so the gospel could go to people who spoke those languages. Very useful. However, today churches do the oppisite. We all already speak the same language. They could talk to each other in english. But, instead they babel in some other tongue no one knows. This is exact oppisite of the miracle God performed. God is not doing this.
exactly right
Some people in some churches do fake speaking in tongues. Some people want to participate in this so much that they force themselves to do this, thinking that it is the Holy Spirit doing this, when it is not. Some people are just fakes. However, you are wrong to say that no one speaks in tongues as the Holy Spirit gives utterance. There also are many who yield themselves to God and welcome the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Spirit does speak through them, in tongues. If you have never experienced this, I understand your misunderstanding, but you are wrong. The scriptures says that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. The Holy Spirit has not changed, and does today still baptize believers, with the evidence of speaking in tongues. Do not close your mind to the Holy Spirit. If you do not understand, ask the Lord to help you understand, but do not accuse the workings of the Holy Spirit to be evil. Just because you do not believe and have not experienced this, does not mean others are wrong. This is like atheists who have never experienced God in their lives, saying that God doesn’t exist. Just because you haven’t experienced this, does not mean it is false.
some people are presuaded to the point of faking
amen to that
My Dad was speaking in tongues once, and a Japanese person came up to him, and asked him how he got to know Japanese so well. also 1 Corinthians 14:14 says “For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.” Therefore, tongues may not always be interpreted, as Paul was saying.
We know that this cannot be the case because then a person who is bilingual would have the Holy Ghost according to what you have said. As a result that means people could simply learn a second language and save themselves. However man cannot save himself because salvation only comes through Jesus Christ. Acts 2:4 says that the Holy Ghost caused these people to speak with tongues. These people spoke languages that they did not know and those languages were mentioned in Acts 2:9-11. This was an act of God which sparked the start of the church. However in 1 Corinthians 14 Paul writes, under the inspiration of God, “For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.” So scripturally we find that in some cases the Holy Ghost caused people to speak in a language known to others around them and in other cases people spoke in a language that no man understood. The key is, in Acts 2:4, that the Holy Ghost is the cause of the speaking in tongues.
to the parithians, meeds, elamites and the rest listed they marvalled and were confounded because we heare them speak in the languages wherein we were born . in short foreign to the galileans but native to those that heard. all those listed
I was raised in a church by my mother,whom I look up to greatly. My father was a severe alcoholic and treated our mother with such cruelty.A mother not raised in the truth as I found in my young adult life,she taught us faithfulness. when I was born again in another church,I couldn’t wait to tell my pastor and he said I was of the pharisees.Another minister said tongues was from the devil. well i quietly and firmly said if peace,love and assurance comes the devil and turned me from a sinful life then your wrong and the word of God is true. still living for JESUS after 33 years.AMEN
Question: People from other nations heard the apostles speak with tongues in their languages . Did the apostles speak in each of their languages or did the Holy Spirit open the ears of the people from other nations to hear the message in their own language?
Your answer is in Acts 2:8 Every one heard the word in their own language down to the county they were born in. Speaking in tongues only means speaking in another language. Paul tells us this in the book or Corinthians. Also, you must have an interperter when teaching in another language or how else will they hear? Rightly divide the word!
In Acts 2 we read that the devout Jews out of every nation under heaven were amazed because they heard the Galileans speak in their own language. Acts 2:9-11 lists the languages heard. So the Holy Ghost caused the people to speak in tongues. Acts 2:4 tells us that the Spirit gave the utterance.
I have been listening to Prophecies recently and see the 14 lessons being taught but what about the RAPTURE is it something not to be believed?
First of all the word rapture is not in the bible. Do you agree? I believe all scripture is inspired by GOD. Now read Rev 5:10. God said it and I believe it.
I believe the description of the rapture is in the Bible. Also, the word trinity is not in the Bible. Does that mean you don’t believe in the Trinity?
Thanks for commenting, Denzil. Perhaps our rapture page will help you find what you are looking for – click here.
Let us know what you think in the commenting section!
God Bless,
-Vince
Jesus, having “breathed on them, saying ‘Receive the Holy Spirit’” (John 20) then spent the remaining time before His ascension exhorting them “not to depart from Jerusalem, for you shall be endued with power from on high” (luke 24) and Romans 3:22 (KJV) states, “the righteousness of God which unto all (the indwelling, Jn. 20) and upon all (the infilling, Acts 1:8, Eph. 5:18) those who believe.” It’s clear to me – and, as a personal testimany, I spent 27 years “indwelt” as a professing believer, prior to my being “filled” and evidenced with tongues and a whole new range of insight /perspective on the Sciptures /my Christian walk (Gal. 5:25)!
I agree that proof that the perfect or complete has already come cannot be logically argued from scripture. Therefore, there is no proof that tongues have ceased, any more than it can be proven that either knowledge or prophesy has ceased. Knowledge has not vanished away and prophesy cannot be said to be finished since we know that at least two prophets have not yet done their thing. But when you say that every prominent account of conversion in the N.T. plainly states or else strongly implies that all who receive the Holy Ghost also speak in tongues, it seems to me, that you prejudice your argument for what you believe is true. I have no trouble believing that all the apostles on Pentecost received the Holy Ghost, since that is what the scriptures plainly state was the case. And I can imagine they all spoke in tongues since tongues is 1. clearly a reversal of the curse of the tower of Babel. It’s also likely that they spoke in tongues for a couple of other reasons. 2. There were a lot of Jews there from many other nations who God intended to save, and 3. or, thirdly, these were apostles. It was their job to make disciples of every nation on earth. And though the
text plainly states that all received the Holy Ghost, that they all spoke in tongues seems more implied than stated. Nevertheless I suspect that all of them did speak in tongues. And so I concede that point, but more for reasons given than plainly stated text. And at 2:17 when Joel is quoted by Peter as clearly predicting this pouring out of the spirit of God on men, though other gifts are mentioned there, there is no mention of tongues.Tongues were the surprise gift that God poured out on the church. I had a friend tell me something that agrees with your experience. Not everyone is able to let go of control of their tongue. He was explaining why not everyone who is born again is able to speak in tongues. Believing and being baptized is the normal course of events. Its what our Lord commanded. Whoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved, and receiving of the Holy Ghost is another promised event. Peter promised that that gift would follow the two requirements commanded by our Lord through Peter–to repent and be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. The Holy Spirit is given to all that truly believe, but, the pouring out of that spirit with manifestation of tongues, with outbursts of praise, accompanying prophecy and many other things, that are obvious evidence of the presence and power of God, occur by laying on of hands and in some cases, just by the will of God..
In the Book of Acts accounting of the conversion of the gentiles in the household of cornelius…, scripture plainly states that Peter and the jews with him knew that the gentiles had received the gift of The Holy Ghost ” because they heard them speak with other tongues” acts 10:44-48 …for a great understanding of three most important matters please find ”understanding the gospel” by rev mark august on you tube…
Praise the Lord.
Dear Ron,
Joel 2:28-29 gives us a promise/prophecy that He will pour out His Spirit upon all flesh. In review of Scripture, the day of Pentecost was the start of that actual outpouring. Peter even testified this fact(Acts2:16-19).
I would like to use a quote of something you said, and then give Scripture to bring light on the issue.
Quote: “Tongues were the surprise gift that God poured out on the church.”
Tongues were actually prophesied in the OT to be a part of our “encounter” with God.
Isa 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.
Isa 28:10 For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:
Isa 28:11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.
Isa 28:12 To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear.
Isaiah 28:11 explicitly says that there would be stammering lips & “another tongue”. Also, take note that 12 says, “This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest;” Jesus said in Matthew 11:28 ” Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Jesus also made a statement in reference to the Holy Ghost in John 3:8 “The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.” In previous verses of John 3, Jesus was telling Nicodemus about being born again, verse 8 was the conclusion of His explanation to Nicodemus concerning being born again. After His resurrection but before His ascension, Jesus commanded His disciples to “not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.”(Acts1:4&5) Then when we read Acts 2:1-4 we immediately see the fulfillment of Jesus’ statement to Nicodemus in John 3 & to his disciples in the previous chapter.
John 7:38-39 “He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)” Here we see Jesus stating that if you believe on Him according to Scripture, you “should receive” the Holy Ghost. As Endtime.com has already shown, according to Scripture when people received the Holy Ghost there was also an outward sign of the inward filling. Isaiah & Joel prophesied about it. Jesus witnessed about it to Nicodemus. Those in the upper room experienced the initial outpouring of it. The Scriptures provided by Endtime.com also show proof that the others that received the Holy Ghost experienced what was prophesied to happen.
Why would God suddenly change His method of filling people with the Holy Ghost? That would simply cause confusion about something that is very important to Him. If it were not important to Him, He would not have given us prophecy about it, & would not have taken time to explain it to Nicodemus. We know that He is not the author of confusion(1Cor14:33). There is no reason to doubt that He still works today the same as He did yesterday, or roughly 2000 years ago for that matter.
Steve
Thank you! I couldn’t agree with you more! I for one of many brothers and sisters in Christ I know personally pray in Tongues on a regular basis. Thank You Holy Spirit for Your awesome gifts that are still being used today just as you intended. Please forgive the unbelief of some who profess to believe your Word and twist it for their own convenience out of fear. Thank You Jesus for Your FINISHED work on the cross and the Word of Your power (grace) that You have given to us who believe as our inheritance. Amen.
Praise God for sharing. As I grow in Christ, He reveals himself to us in the amounts we can handle. For like a baby we can only handle milk. As we grow in Him, he gives us more. Now my point being, “as” you live in the flesh, you think with your mind, but God calls us to be like little children in the sense he needs us to be innocent to feel his love. When you are born again, you choose Christ as your savior, being filled with the Holy Spirit. You choose daily, moment by moment, to walk in Christ. our choice is a flesh vs. Spirit so keep in mind your prayer language develops as you utter physically. What I’m trying to say is that we as humans confuse ourselves trying to figure out the literal meaning of things but asking the holy spirit into our prayer life is the indwelling, where our prayer language is with God. Just relax and be….
As a baby in Christ is the best time to be filled with the Holy Spirit and speak in tongues; When God said to be like a little Child He is saying; Little children believe anything; They do not lean to their understanding; They do not try to explain it away; They just believe no questions asked: We have to be like that; All those in the upper room were born again; they had not yet been filled with the Holy Spirit; they were saved first; When we are saved we are all sealed with the Holy Spirit; We are not filled with it; or Jesus would not of said this; Luke 11:13. If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? There is one thing that Jesus could not do but a believer can; and that is get Christians filled with the Holy Spirit: Is this the greater works? John 14:12. Truly, truly, I say to you, He that believes on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go to my Father.