Although the scripture does not say so, it can hardly be doubted that during the Lord's life on earth, all who were then baptised unto Him underwent the rite in Jesus' name. In fact if baptism had been granted to them as apart from the distinguishing name great confusion would have been spread among the people, for they had already been baptised of John. How then could a distinction be noted and difference be made between the two baptisms unless a distinguishing name and authority be introduced? The rite would have become a mere meaningless repetition of no moment, a religious observance practised just for the sake of it.
Undoubtedly upon hearing the new message they had believed the things concerning the Kingdom of Heaven and the name of Jesus Christ and had consequently been blessed, healed, delivered, forgiven and baptised, and all without receiving the Holy Ghost. Therefore, in common with everyone else at that time, including the disciples themselves, although they were believers they were as yet unregenerate.
The reason for this is quite plainly told us in John 7:39 — 'the Holy Ghost was not yet given' (to the Jews). Just as plainly we are informed in Acts 8:15 & 16 that until Peter and John went unto them, the Samaritans had not received the Holy Ghost either, for He had not yet been given to that particular group. Despite the fact that Philip had faithfully proclaimed Christ to them, and they had believed his message and had gone as far as they could in faithful response to what they heard, as yet they were spiritually unborn.
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G.W. North (1913 - 2003)
G. W. North was born in London England in 1913. As a young man he became aware that the Lord was calling him into the work of the ministry. At timely stages the Lord placed folk in his path who were able to direct him into the truth of heart purity and a more expansive understanding of the ministry of the Holy Spirit. He held pastorates in Kent and Bradford. By the late 1960s, following a significant period of ministry in Liverpool, he began a more itinerant ministry. This led him to many parts of the world, and occupied him until well into his eighties. His powerful preaching and the unique sense of the Lord's presence, which seemed to brood over his meetings, were always intensely challenging.The true secret of his remarkable ministry stemmed from his personal communion with the Lord Jesus. To him, 'entering the holiest' was not merely a theological concept; it was a distinct spiritual reality - and the central feature of his spiritual life. It was here, in the place of worship, that his revelatory ministry found its source. He preached from understanding and conviction. He was never the echo of another, nor did he take on board the ebb and flow of various contemporary emphases. He was not a man of 'books'; he soaked himself in Scripture and allowed it to saturate his heart and mind. Truly, this is a man who has lifted up a standard for the people. Mr North went to be with the Lord on 29th April 2003, shortly after his ninetieth birthday.