Acts 11:16

KJV

Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} remembered I {G3415} the word {G4487} of the Lord {G2962}, how {G5613} that he said {G3004}, John {G2491} indeed {G3303} baptized {G907} with water {G5204}; but {G1161} ye {G5210} shall be baptized {G907} with {G1722} the Holy {G40} Ghost {G4151}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And I remembered that the Lord had said, ‘Yochanan used to immerse people in water, but you will be immersed in the Ruach HaKodesh.’

Berean Standard Bible

Then I remembered the word of the Lord, as He used to say, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’

American Standard Version

And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized in the Holy Spirit.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Acts 11:16, Peter recounts to the Jerusalem apostles and brethren the pivotal moment when he understood God's expansive plan for salvation, specifically the inclusion of Gentiles. His remembrance of Jesus' promise regarding the baptism with the Holy Spirit served as divine confirmation, validating his controversial actions of fellowshipping with and baptizing uncircumcised Gentiles, and underscoring the universal nature of the gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Peter's defense before the Jewish Christian leaders in Jerusalem, who were challenging his association with and baptism of uncircumcised Gentiles (as seen in [Acts 11:3](/acts/11-3 "Acts 11:3 - Peter Accused of Eating with Gentiles")). Peter meticulously recounts the entire sequence of events that led him to Cornelius's house: his transformative vision on the housetop in Joppa ([Acts 10:9-16](/acts/10-9-16 "Acts 10:9-16 - Peter's Vision of Unclean Animals")), the divine command to accompany Cornelius's messengers, and the astonishing moment when the Holy Spirit fell upon Cornelius and his household even as Peter was speaking ([Acts 10:44-46](/acts/10-44-46 "Acts 10:44-46 - The Holy Spirit Falls on Gentiles")). Peter's recollection of Jesus' words in Acts 11:16 serves as the theological linchpin of his argument, providing irrefutable evidence that his actions were not personal initiative but a direct response to God's undeniable work among the Gentiles.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church was predominantly Jewish, grappling with its identity as a continuation of God's covenant people while embracing the new covenant in Christ. A significant cultural barrier existed between Jews and Gentiles, particularly concerning dietary laws and circumcision. Jewish Christians often believed that Gentiles needed to convert to Judaism (including circumcision) before becoming followers of Christ. The events surrounding Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and his household were revolutionary. For the Holy Spirit, the very mark of God's presence and blessing, to fall upon uncircumcised Gentiles was a profound and shocking affirmation that God was extending salvation beyond the traditional boundaries of Israel, without requiring adherence to Mosaic Law for salvation. This event directly challenged deeply ingrained cultural and religious norms, paving the way for the church's global mission.
* **Key Themes:** Peter's remembrance in this verse contributes significantly to several major themes in Acts. Firstly, it highlights the **Sovereignty and Guidance of the Holy Spirit**, demonstrating how the Spirit orchestrates events and leads believers into God's will, even when it challenges their preconceptions. Secondly, it powerfully reinforces the **Inclusion of the Gentiles** into the people of God, a theme central to Acts and the broader New Testament. The Spirit's outpouring on Cornelius's household mirrors Pentecost ([Acts 2:1-4](/acts/2-1-4 "Acts 2:1-4 - The Day of Pentecost")), signifying that Gentiles are now full participants in the new covenant community. Thirdly, it underscores the **Continuity and Fulfillment of Prophecy**, as Jesus' promise (echoing [John the Baptist's words in John 1:33](/john/1-33 "John 1:33 - John the Baptist's Testimony about Jesus")) is now seen to be fulfilled in a new and unexpected way, confirming the transition from a water-based baptism of repentance to a Spirit-based baptism of new life and empowerment.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **remembered (Greek, _mnáomai'_):** This verb signifies to "bear in mind" or "recollect." Peter's act of remembering is not a mere mental recall but a profound theological insight, a divinely prompted understanding that connects a past promise of Jesus with a present, unprecedented event. It implies a moment of clarity where fragmented pieces of revelation suddenly coalesce into a coherent truth about God's plan.
* **baptized (Greek, _baptízō'_):** Derived from a word meaning "to immerse" or "to submerge," this term denotes a complete overwhelming or saturation. In the context of the Holy Spirit, it implies a profound, transformative experience where an individual is fully enveloped by the Spirit's presence and power, leading to spiritual regeneration, empowerment for witness, and incorporation into the body of Christ. It is distinct from a mere ritual and speaks to a deep spiritual reality.
* **Holy Ghost (Greek, _hágios pneûma'_):** "Holy" (hágios) refers to that which is sacred, pure, or consecrated, set apart for God. "Ghost" (pneûma) signifies a "current of air," "breath," or "spirit," encompassing the rational soul, vital principle, or, in this divine context, the very Spirit of God. Together, "Holy Ghost" (or Holy Spirit) refers to the third person of the Trinity, God's active presence and power, who indwells believers, empowering them for life and ministry, and testifying to their new birth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then remembered I the word of the Lord,"**: This clause highlights Peter's moment of divine illumination. Witnessing the Holy Spirit fall upon the Gentiles, Peter's mind was supernaturally prompted to recall a specific teaching of Jesus. This remembrance was not accidental but a crucial link in understanding God's will, serving as a divine interpretive key for the astonishing events unfolding before him.
* **"how that he said,"**: This phrase introduces the direct quotation of Jesus' words, emphasizing the authority and divine origin of the promise Peter is about to recount. It underscores that Peter's actions and understanding were founded not on human reasoning or cultural bias, but on the explicit teaching of Christ Himself.
* **"John indeed baptized with water;"**: This part of the remembered word refers to John the Baptist's ministry, which focused on a baptism of repentance, preparing people for the coming Messiah. It signifies an outward ritual of cleansing and commitment, a precursor to the deeper spiritual reality that Jesus would bring. The word "indeed" (Greek, _mén_) sets up a contrast with what follows.
* **"but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost."**: This is the climactic contrast and the core of Jesus' promise. It refers to a superior, internal, and transformative baptism by the Holy Spirit, signifying new life, spiritual empowerment, and inclusion into the new covenant community. This spiritual baptism is not a ritual but a divine act of God, immersing believers in His Spirit, as demonstrated by the outpouring on the Gentiles.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Recollection** or **Anamnesis** is central, as Peter's remembrance of Jesus' words provides the interpretive framework for the entire narrative. This act of remembering serves as a divine **Affirmation**, validating the unexpected outpouring of the Spirit on the Gentiles and confirming God's universal plan. There is a clear **Contrast** established between "John indeed baptized with water" and "but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost." This highlights the shift from a preparatory, external ritual to a transformative, internal spiritual experience. The verse also functions as a **Quotation**, directly citing Jesus' words, which lends immense authority and weight to Peter's defense and the unfolding events.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 11:16 is a pivotal verse that encapsulates a profound theological shift in the early church's understanding of salvation and inclusion. It confirms that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, initially experienced by Jewish believers at Pentecost, is not exclusive to any ethnic group but is freely available to all who believe in Christ, regardless of their background. This Spirit-baptism signifies not merely a ritual but a transformative immersion into the life and power of God, breaking down the old covenant's ethnic and ceremonial barriers and establishing the universal nature of the new covenant. It underscores that salvation is by grace through faith, evidenced by the Spirit's indwelling, rather than by adherence to the Law.

* [Acts 1:5](/acts/1-5 "Acts 1:5 - Jesus' Promise of the Holy Spirit")
* [Acts 2:38-39](/acts/2-38-39 "Acts 2:38-39 - Peter's Call to Repentance and the Promise of the Spirit")
* [1 Corinthians 12:13](/1_corinthians/12-13 "1 Corinthians 12:13 - One Spirit, One Body")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 11:16 offers profound lessons for believers today. Peter's experience reminds us that God often works in ways that challenge our preconceived notions, cultural biases, and even our theological frameworks. Just as Peter had to re-evaluate his understanding of God's people, we are called to remain open to God's leading, even when it pushes us out of our comfort zones or requires us to dismantle our own prejudices. The universal outpouring of the Holy Spirit signifies that God's love and grace extend to all humanity, breaking down every barrier of race, social status, or past. This calls us to embrace radical inclusivity in our churches and ministries, actively seeking to welcome and affirm all people whom God is drawing to Himself. Furthermore, it highlights our ongoing need for the Holy Spirit's empowerment to live out our faith, overcome obstacles, and effectively share the gospel with a diverse world, trusting that the same Spirit who enabled Peter to witness will equip us for every good work.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or understanding might God be challenging your preconceived notions or cultural biases, similar to Peter's experience?**
* **How does the universal outpouring of the Holy Spirit impact your view of the church's mission and your personal responsibility in sharing the gospel?**
* **What does it mean for you personally to be "baptized with the Holy Ghost," and how does this spiritual reality manifest in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**What is the difference between John's baptism and baptism with the Holy Spirit?**

Answer: John's baptism, as mentioned in [Acts 11:16](/acts/11-16 "Acts 11:16 - Peter Remembers Jesus' Promise"), was a baptism of repentance, symbolizing a turning away from sin and a preparation for the coming Messiah. It was an outward sign of an inward commitment to change and anticipate God's kingdom. In contrast, baptism with the Holy Spirit, also referenced in this verse, is a spiritual immersion into the very life and power of God. It signifies regeneration, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and incorporation into the body of Christ. While John's baptism pointed forward, the Spirit baptism is the fulfillment, granting new life, spiritual gifts, and empowerment for Christian living and witness, as seen at Pentecost in [Acts 2](/acts/2 "Acts 2 - The Day of Pentecost").

**Why was Peter's remembrance of this word so significant for the early church?**

Answer: Peter's remembrance of Jesus' promise in [Acts 11:16](/acts/11-16 "Acts 11:16 - Peter Remembers Jesus' Promise") was profoundly significant because it provided divine validation for the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian community without requiring them to first convert to Judaism. Before this, many Jewish Christians believed that Gentiles needed to be circumcised and adhere to the Mosaic Law to be saved. The undeniable outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Cornelius's household, mirroring the experience of Jewish believers at Pentecost, combined with Peter's recollection of Jesus' specific prophecy, served as irrefutable proof that God Himself was extending salvation to Gentiles. This event was crucial for shaping the early church's understanding of its universal mission and for overcoming deep-seated ethnic and religious barriers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 11:16 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The promise of the Holy Spirit's baptism, which Peter recalls, was a direct prophecy from Jesus Himself, reiterated before His ascension in [Acts 1:5](/acts/1-5 "Acts 1:5 - Jesus' Promise of the Holy Spirit"). This promise became a reality because of Christ's finished work on the cross, His resurrection, and His glorious ascension to the right hand of the Father. It was from there that He poured out the Holy Spirit, as Peter proclaimed on the Day of Pentecost in [Acts 2:33](/acts/2-33 "Acts 2:33 - Peter's Sermon on the Holy Spirit"). The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Christ ([Romans 8:9](/romans/8-9 "Romans 8:9 - The Spirit of Christ")), sent by the Father and the Son ([John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Helper, the Holy Spirit")). Therefore, the baptism with the Holy Spirit is the means by which believers are united to Christ, becoming part of His body ([1 Corinthians 12:13](/1_corinthians/12-13 "1 Corinthians 12:13 - One Spirit, One Body")), and empowered to live out His new covenant. The inclusion of Gentiles, validated by this Spirit-baptism, demonstrates that Christ's salvation is for all nations, fulfilling God's ancient promises to Abraham ([Galatians 3:14](/galatians/3-14 "Galatians 3:14 - The Blessing of Abraham through Christ")) and establishing a new humanity in Him ([Ephesians 2:14-18](/ephesians/2-14-18 "Ephesians 2:14-18 - Christ Our Peace")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 1:5

For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.

Mark 1:8

I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.

Proverbs 1:23

Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.

Luke 3:16

John answered, saying unto [them] all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:

John 14:26

But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Matthew 3:11

I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and [with] fire:

Ezekiel 36:25

¶ Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.