Question:  Dear Greg,

            When do we get the Holy Spirit?  Do we get it when we’re baptized or when hands are laid upon us and then we’re prayed over?  Do you need to be baptized to receive the Holy Spirit?

            Ken

Answer:  Dear Ken,

            No one knows exactly when we receive the Holy Spirit, neither has God, the Holy Spirit, given authority to any one denomination or individual to arbitrate for us as to when and how and upon obedience to what ordinance or sacrament He will come into our lives.

            There are examples in the book of Acts, probably for this very reason, when the gift of tongues was given, signifying the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, before baptism.

            Baptism does not save us, nor is the moment of baptism the exact time when we are given the Holy Spirit.  We do not need to be baptized to receive the Holy Spirit, but those in whom Jesus lives will be baptized in obedience to his command, signifying their commitment to the salvation God has already given them.

            In Christ,

            Greg Albrecht