Acts 10:44

"While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all them that heard the word" Notice how this outpouring of the Holy Spirit greatly differs from what modern denominations teach about the work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit did not fall upon the family of Cornelius to make them receptive to the gospel message, seeing that they are very receptive before this happens (Acts 10:33). The Holy Spirit did not fall upon them to produce faith in their heart, because they already believed in God Acts 1:33. The Holy Spirit did not fall upon them to forgive them of their sins, for they still had to be baptized in water after this outpouring, that is, they still had their sins (Acts 10:47-48; Acts 22:16; Acts 2:38). It is clear then that the outpouring of the Spirit on this occasion is not for the primary benefit of Cornelius and his family, but rather for the benefit of Peter and the other Christians of. Jewish background (Acts 10:47; Acts 11:17-18). It was proof positive that. Gentile could be saved, without first becoming. Jew, that is, submitting to circumcision. Reese notes, "In time Peter will have to explain his 'association' with these Gentiles to the Christians at Jerusalem. And in that defense Peter will base his whole case on God's intervention and clear direction in the whole transaction. Peter's ultimate and conclusive argument is based on the fact that the Holy Spirit came upon Cornelius and his friends" (p. 401).

The reader should note the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is the rare exception in the cases of conversion (Acts 8:12 ff; Acts 10:45). The only other case being the outpouring mentioned in Acts 2:1 upon the apostles (Acts 11:15-17). What is not the exception, in fact, what we find in all the cases of conversion is that people were commanded to be baptized in water (Acts 10:47; Acts 2:38; Acts 8:12; 36-38; Acts 22:16).