SINCE this practice of praying for the baptism of the Spirit is continued with such pertinacity, we have concluded to make a few remarks upon it. For the sake of making our remarks the more easily apprehended, we will arrange them numerically, as follows:
First. The baptism of the Holy Spirit was a miracle. It does not exist in our day, for miracles are not done now, not designed to be, nor of any use if done. Miracles can not be done but by the will of God, nor can they be suspended, but by his will. He did them when they were needed, and suspended them when they were not needed. No man can allege that miracles ought to have been continued in the church, without alleging that the all-wise God ought to have done what he has not done. This is absurd.
Second. The baptism of the Spirit was seen. Nothing of the kind occurs now that is seen. Therefore, there is now no baptism of the Spirit.
Third. The baptism of the Spirit was heard. Nothing of this kind is heard now. Therefore, there is no baptism of the Holy Spirit now.
Fourth. Cloven, or divided tongues, like as of fire, sat upon those baptized with the Spirit. Nothing of this kind sat upon those claiming to have been baptized with the Holy Spirit now. Therefore, none have been baptized with the Holy Spirit in our day.
Fifth. Those baptized with the Holy Spirit, spoke with tongues. None claiming to be baptized with the Holy Spirit now, speak with tongues. Therefore, none now are baptized with the Holy Spirit.
Sixth. Those baptized with the Holy Spirit prophesied. None claiming to be baptized with the Holy Spirit now prophesy. Therefore, none are baptized with the Holy Spirit, now.
Seventh. It is wrong to pray for the baptism of the Holy Spirit, because it is a gift that does not belong to us. Simon, the sorcerer, asked for a gift that did not belong to him, on account of which the Apostle said, “Thou art in the gall of bitterness and bond of iniquity,” and instructed him to “pray God, if perhaps the thought of his heart might be forgiven him.”
Eighth. It is wrong to claim to have the baptism of the Spirit, because the claim is as false and delusive, as to claim to be an Apostle. It is as shallow, empty and unfounded as the claims of Mormons.