While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell on everyone who heard the word. 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. They heard them speaking in other languages and praising God. Peter asked, “These people have received the Holy Spirit just as we have. Surely no one can stop them from being baptized with water, can they?” 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)
As Lutherans, we say in our service of Baptism, “baptized you have been sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever.” I have always wondered at this, as it seems like we are saying that the baptism of the Holy Spirit happened here. However, this reading shows us that the baptism of the Holy Spirit could be something that happens before water or any time the Spirit feels the whim to do it.
We are all born of water, and born of Spirit when God makes that happen.
Do not try to box God in, but go with the Spirit.
aSacredRebel 