Baptized

⁴⁴ While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell on everyone who heard the word. ⁴⁵ The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. ⁴⁶ They heard them speaking in other languages and praising God. Peter asked, ⁴⁷ “These people have received the Holy Spirit just as we have. Surely no one can stop them from being baptized with water, can they?” ⁴⁸ He directed that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited Peter to stay for several days. (Acts 10:44-48, CEB)

So which comes first?

Water Baptism?

Or Baptism of the Holy Spirit?

In our service, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, we have a spot after the water baptism where the person presiding says, “Name , child of God, you have been sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever.” Which I always had issues with. Because this reads to me like at that point when the cross is drawn on the head of the baptized with oil the Spirit enters in. And how are we so bold to say that is when the Spirit comes?

Here in the reading, the Gentiles have received the Holy Spirit, and the disciples then ask, what is to keep them from being baptized with water? So the Holy Spirit comes when the Holy Spirit wants to. We do not control that. It could happen at the point above in the baptismal service, but to say that is when it happens for certain is not what we can do.

So go and know that God is in control and not you.

Loving People. Loving God.