Believe and Receive
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
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. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. 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.) (Acts 8:12-16)
Don’t you love it when the Holy Spirit moves powerfully? He should always be welcomed in every church service. He never forces His gifts, but when we openly invite Him and listen, miracles and signs happen, just as they did in Acts 8:12-16 through the ministry of Philip. However, it’s vital to note that Philip’s ministry focused on preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. The Word was the top priority.
The Samaritans heard, believed, and received the Word of God before the miracles and signs occurred. In other words, they didn’t simply marvel at the wonders; they responded to the Word with faith. Miracles serve as a calling card, drawing people’s attention, but Jesus said they were to follow the Word.
Many believed and were baptized in water, but Peter and John went to Samaria to teach and minister about the baptism of the Holy Ghost, a second blessing that follows salvation. While the baptism of the Holy Ghost comes after salvation, believers don’t have to wait; they can receive it as soon as they are saved!
Practical Application
If you don’t know about the baptism of the Holy Ghost, ask your pastor or one of his leaders about it this Sunday. Then receive!
