8:15 8:15

Acts 8:16

8:17 8:17

Bible Versions

(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
(For {G1063} as yet {G3768} he was {G2258} fallen {G1968} upon {G1909} none {G3762} of them {G846}: only {G3440}{G1161} they were {G5225} baptized {G907} in {G1519} the name {G3686} of the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424}.)
For until then he had not come upon any of them; they had only been immersed into the name of the Lord Yeshua.
For the Holy Spirit had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had simply been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus.
for as yet it was fallen upon none of them: only they had been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus.

Context

Acts 8:16 is part of the account of Philip's evangelistic ministry in Samaria. After the scattering of believers due to persecution in Jerusalem (Acts 8:1), Philip, one of the seven deacons, went to Samaria, a region historically at odds with Judea. He preached the Gospel, performed miracles, and many Samaritans believed and were baptized. This particular verse explains a crucial detail: while these new Samaritan believers had embraced Christ and undergone water baptism, they had not yet experienced the distinct outpouring of the Holy Spirit, such as seen at Pentecost. This unique circumstance prompted the apostles Peter and John to be sent from Jerusalem to Samaria.

Key Themes

  • The Holy Spirit's Distinct Work: The verse highlights that receiving the Holy Spirit was a separate, though often closely subsequent, event from water baptism in the early church. It emphasizes the sovereign timing and method of the Spirit's manifestation.
  • Baptism in the Name of Jesus: The phrase "baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" signifies a public declaration of allegiance to Jesus Christ, identifying with His death, burial, and resurrection. It represents a profound commitment to Christ's authority and identity, rather than a specific baptismal formula.
  • Apostolic Confirmation: The fact that Peter and John were sent to Samaria to lay hands on the new believers for them to receive the Holy Spirit underscores the apostolic authority and oversight in the early church's expansion, ensuring unity and proper recognition of the Spirit's work.

Linguistic Insight

The phrase "he was fallen upon none of them" uses the Greek verb epipiptō (ἐπιπίπτω), which literally means "to fall upon" or "to fall on." This term is used to describe a powerful, often sudden, descent or manifestation, akin to the Holy Spirit's dramatic arrival at Pentecost (Acts 2:2). It signifies an overt, experienced presence of the Spirit, beyond mere indwelling.

Significance and Application

Acts 8:16 offers valuable insights into the dynamics of spiritual experience in the early church. It suggests that while water baptism is an essential step of obedience and identification with Christ, the reception of the Holy Spirit's empowering presence can be a distinct and discernible experience. This passage has contributed to various theological discussions regarding the "baptism of the Holy Spirit," whether it is simultaneous with conversion, a subsequent experience, or a continuous filling. For believers today, it serves as a reminder of:

  • The importance of both outward obedience (baptism) and inward spiritual transformation and empowerment.
  • The sovereign work of the Holy Spirit, who distributes gifts and manifestations as He wills.
  • The desire for the fullness of God's Spirit in our lives for effective witness and ministry, as exemplified by the Samaritans who eventually received the Spirit (Acts 8:17).
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.
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