Hi All. Thanks for posting on the thread. I stayed away from contributing further because I sometimes question my motives and/or the benefits of saying what I'm thinking. Plus it didn't seem like anyone was asking me a direct question.
I put the question out there because some people (it seems MANY people) both in and out of the church don't really know what/who the Holy Ghost is, or exactly what happens when (if ever) it is received or how to actually use (function in it) once the Holy Ghost is received. I figured asking about Peter might have some people questioning what can/can't be done before the Holy Ghost is given to a believer... and that beginning to question might cause those individuals to ask GOD for the answers... allowing Him an opportunity to move in their lives.
I figured Peter was a good example because he was operating in faith and accomplishing much BEFORE he received the Holy Ghost...which is further proof that even working miracles isn't proof of the indwelling of the Holy Ghost... just a proof of faith and lining up with portions of the scriptures.
Here's a few questions I'll pose to any interested (preferably honest and honorable) parties:
Do you KNOW how to tell if a person has or doesn't have the Holy Ghost?
If you think you KNOW... can you honestly and solidly determine who in your own church HAS the Holy Spirit vs. those who do NOT have the Holy Spirit? (Ponder that one a bit before answering because you should be clear and solid in your answer.)
And if you think that you (or any person) CAN'T KNOW who has the Holy Ghost in your own church, doesn't that leave you quite vulnerable when any of them speak? (because that would apply to your pastor, too)
Love in Jesus,
Kelby