Pastor John.
It’s interesting that u mention Imitating tongues because that subject has been on my mind since the meeting on Sunday because of something u said. I thought u said ( And correct me if I’m wrong ) that a person can receive the Spirit without hearing anything whatsoever about the Gospel?? I certainly believe that Gods ways are not our ways & he can do anything that he wants to do!! And I don’t believe that he is bound to any doctrine etc… But having said that?? I know what the Apostles as well as Jesus taught concerning receiving the Spirit by hearing the Gospel & believing it. I don’t think a person can or has to know anything much but at least hear the name Jesus. Otherwise, it could be another spirit they are receiving?? I just wanted to ask u that because maybe I misunderstood.
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Yes, you misunderstood me. Without hearing the gospel of the Son of God, it is impossible to receive the Spirit because the Spirit comes only in the name of Jesus. What I said was that people (who have believed in Jesus) can receive the baptism of the Spirit without being taught about it. That’s all. Many a non-“pentecostal” has received the holy ghost baptism without being told to expect it. God honors sincere faith in his Son!
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Something else I wanna ask on same subject. Is it possible that Tongues or the truth concerning our initial conversion was purposely hidden by God for the sake of the Elect?? This scripture comes to mind: “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:” 2 Corinthians 4:3 KJV
Why would that be?? This scripture comes to mind: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:”
John 10:27 KJV
It comes back around to “Imitating the Spirit”!! If the scripture said “Everyone that Speaks in Tongues” is Saved then “Everyone would be Speaking in Tongues”. Or Imitating it!! It wouldn’t be Legit… Case in point: Faith!! Everyone says “You are Saved by Faith”, but they Can’t See the Truth!! The Bible is a stumbling block for everyone accept His Elect!!
John C.
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Excellent point, John! That is exactly what would have happened. I am glad that God has hidden the truth “from the wise and the prudent” and has “revealed it unto babes”!
Pastor John
Ask for a copy of Pastor John’s book, Speaking in Tongues at Spirit Baptism.