Acts 11:16

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.

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}.

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

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.’

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

In Acts 11:16, Peter recounts a pivotal moment of understanding to the apostles and brethren in Jerusalem. He explains his controversial actions of fellowshipping with and baptizing Gentiles by recalling a specific promise from Jesus. This verse highlights the divine confirmation of the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian community, marked by the powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

Context

This verse is part of Peter's defense before the Jewish Christian leaders in Jerusalem, who were questioning why he had associated with and eaten with uncircumcised Gentiles (Acts 11:3). Peter meticulously recounts the entire sequence of events, starting with his vision on the housetop in Joppa (Acts 10:11-16), the divine command to go with Cornelius's messengers, and ultimately, the astonishing moment when the Holy Spirit fell upon Cornelius and his household even as Peter was speaking (Acts 10:44-46). It was at this precise moment, witnessing Gentiles receiving the Spirit in the same manner as the Jewish believers at Pentecost, that Peter remembered Jesus' promise, validating his actions and God's expansive plan for salvation.

Key Themes

  • The Promise of the Holy Spirit: The verse directly quotes Jesus' promise concerning the baptism with the Holy Ghost, a fulfillment first seen at Pentecost (Acts 2:4) and now extended to Gentiles.
  • Transition from Water to Spirit Baptism: It contrasts John's water baptism, which was a baptism of repentance, with the superior baptism of the Holy Spirit, which signifies new life, indwelling, and empowerment by God's Spirit. This distinction was foretold by John the Baptist himself (John 1:33) and reiterated by Jesus before His ascension (Acts 1:5).
  • Inclusivity of the Gospel: This remembrance by Peter solidifies the understanding that God's grace and the gift of the Holy Spirit are not exclusive to the Jewish people but are freely given to all who believe, regardless of their ethnic background. This event was crucial for the early church's mission and understanding of the universal nature of Christ's salvation.
  • Divine Validation: Peter's recollection serves as undeniable proof that his actions were not based on human initiative or cultural preferences, but on direct divine instruction and the undeniable evidence of God's Spirit at work.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "baptized with the Holy Ghost" uses the Greek word baptizo (βαπτίζω), which means "to immerse," "to plunge," or "to overwhelm." This imagery suggests a complete immersion into the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, implying a profound, transformative experience that goes beyond a mere ritual. It's not just a sprinkling, but a full enveloping by the Spirit of God, indicating a deep spiritual transformation and empowerment for Christian living and witness.

Practical Application

Acts 11:16 reminds believers today of the vital role of the Holy Spirit in Christian life. Just as the early church needed the Spirit's power to expand its mission, so too do believers today need to be filled and led by the Spirit for guidance, strength, and effective witness. It challenges us to embrace God's expansive love for all people, breaking down traditional barriers and prejudices. Furthermore, it encourages us to be open to God's leading, even when it pushes us out of our comfort zones or challenges our preconceived notions, trusting that His plans are always greater and more inclusive than our own.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Acts 1:5 (9 votes)

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

  • Mark 1:8 (8 votes)

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

  • Proverbs 1:23 (6 votes)

    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 (5 votes)

    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 (5 votes)

    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 (5 votes)

    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 (4 votes)

    ¶ 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.