The baptism in the Holy Spirit is distinct from the new birth, which was demonstrated for us in Samaria. After Philip had preached with great signs and wonders in Samaria, many believed and were baptized in water, but none had yet received the baptism in the Holy Ghost (Acts 8:12-17). According to the scripture and the practice of most of the churches today, they were saved, born again, and made sons and daughters of God when they believed and were baptized in water. Then when Peter and John came to visit, they received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. We can be certain that Peter and John had the same disposition that Paul had, and were earnest to make certain that those who were born again were also baptized in the Holy Ghost (Acts 8:15-17). Those who want to have the baptism of the Holy Spirit, without the tongues that are always associated with it, point to this passage of scripture for justification. However, there is no justification offered here. First, no one can suddenly eliminate the set precedence by arguing from silence of the lack of the text specifically mentioning tongues. It is however legitimate to assume that tongues accompanied the baptism of the Holy Spirit as it did everywhere else that this baptism was mentioned. Secondly, Simon was able to see that the gift of the Holy Ghost was imparted, and there is no need to guess what he was witnessing when the Spirit of the Lord came upon those at Samaria (Acts 8:18). It was definitely the same demonstration of power and glory that came upon anyone else that was baptized in the Holy Ghost and power. Oh that every believer would recognize their great need for the working of the Holy Spirit in their life so that they can be empowered to do the work of the ministry! Oh that every believer would yield to the divine utterances that propel faith, power, and giftings that the Holy Spirit is so dedicated to us having!