How can you read the book of Acts and not believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit? When I was growing up, there was no mention of that type of baptism; but some grew up in a charismatic church where all the emphasis was on it, and pressure to perform was the norm. I understand that there are those who want the outward signs of the Holy Spirit baptism so badly that they mimic those who have received it in order to appear more spiritual in their congregation, but they are only lying to themselves, because the signs, or fruits of the Spirit are not evident within them. In the Old Testament, when the Holy Spirit came upon Saul, he prophesied, and in the New Testament, they spoke in tongues and prophesied, so there was, and still are outward signs of His existence within you. Whether you speak in tongues, prophesy, or have whatever gift you’ve been given, you will definitely exhibit the fruits of the Spirit, which are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. You should strictly examine yourself for these things, because a tree will be known by its fruit.
And Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.” On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying. Acts 19:4-6
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