Bible Verse of The Day – 1-5-23

Acts 8:14-16 (NKJV) 14 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, 15 who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

When the apostles heard that the Samaritans became Christians, they sent Peter and John to them. Why? Because as of yet He, the Holy Spirit “had fallen upon none of them”.

They had not yet received the baptism of the Holy Spirit; they were saved and were baptized with water.

Acts 8:12 (NKJV) 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized.

It’s important that we notice there are two different, separate experiences. Water baptism, which the Samaritans had already experienced before Peter and John arrived, and then after they arrived, the baptism or “falling upon the believers” of the Holy Spirit, which was a whole other experience.

The falling upon of the Holy Spirit came after the apostles arrived and laid hands on them, not at the time that they initially believed.

Acts 8:17 (NKJV) 17 Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

The Samaritans received the Holy Spirit, and Simon watched it take place. He saw that there was power imparted into the new believers as the Holy Spirit fell upon them and he offered the apostles money if they would do the same for him.

He wanted it so he could use it for his own gain.

Acts 8:18 (NKJV) 18 And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money…

Well, we all know we can’t buy God’s gifts. But if we have a sincere heart to do the right thing, He will give to us freely.

It is the baptism of the Holy Spirit by which we receive the power to work out our Salvation with fear and trembling.

It is the power of the Holy Spirit “falling upon” us that helps us live as a believer in this world we live in today.

We need Him and His help each day, and without Him we will be powerless to carry out anything that He has asked us to do.

Philippians 2:12 (NKJV) 12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;

Ask Him to fall upon us today and guide our steps. Be strong in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Pastor Curt & Pastor Ellie

Seven Seas Ministries
49 N Lamplighters Walk
Hampstead, NC 28443

401-439-3780

If you know someone who will enjoy this or be encouraged by it, please feel free to share it with them!