Name: Surya Tarigan
comments: Dear Pastor John,
In 2005 I have printed all materials in your website and still read them until now. I believe that holy spirit baptism is the sign of new birth. I myself are not sure yet whether I am already baptized with holy spirit. But, I found myself speaking in tongues occasionally. But I am not sure whether it is genuine or not. It could be as a result of my past involvement in charismatics church.
Recently, I read one book quoting 1 Cor 12:13 saying that holy spirit baptism in Act 2:3 was never intended for individual but for a congregation/church as a whole. The book also mentions that despite of full conflict among congregation in Corinthians, Paul said in 1 Cor 12:13 that “WE ALL” not only some of them have been baptized with holy spirit. This verse is used by Xty to claim that holy spirit baptism is not for individual but for whole congregation like in Corinthians. I believe that it is not true. The book also admit some difficulties when after Act 2:3 Peter some people received holy spirit baptism individually such as in Act 8:26, Cornelius etc.
If you have time please give me some comment on this issue.
Nice greetings….
Surya from Indonesia
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Greetings in Jesus’ name!
If the book which you read taught the doctrine that you described, it is the book of a false teacher. Throw the book away, and then spend your time with God, letting the Spirit that He gives speak through you more and more. That blessing is “for you, and for your children, and for those who are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call” (Acts 2:39).
God bless you and yours as you continue to seek the perfect way of Christ Jesus.
Pastor John