Acts 11:16 Meaning and Explanation
“Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The outpouring reminds Peter of the Lord's promise: John baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.
What Does Acts 11:16 Mean?
Peter interprets what he saw by the remembered word of Jesus, spoken before the ascension (1:5) and echoing John the Baptist's own preaching (Luke 3:16). John's baptism in water pointed ahead to a greater outpouring, and at Caesarea Peter watched that promise reach the nations.
Experience alone did not settle the question; experience measured against the Lord's own word did. Peter's instinct is a pattern for every disciple: when the unexpected happens, run it back to what Jesus said. And the promise itself is glorious — Christ does not deal with His people from a distance, but immerses them in His own Spirit, the very life of God filling believing hearts.
Acts 11:16 in the Original Language
baptizo (βαπτίζω), 'baptized' -- to immerse, to plunge into.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 11:16
What does Acts 11:16 mean?
The outpouring reminds Peter of the Lord's promise: John baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.