In Acts 19, we see that after the apostle Paul had explained to some disciples at Ephesus that they had received a baptism that was not valid, they received baptism in the name of Jesus (verses 4, 5; Acts 2:38). Paul then laid hands on them that they might receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. We see from verse six that what they received was the miraculous gift of speaking in tongues (foreign languages) and the gift of prophecy.

The Holy Spirit gave only the apostles the ability to impart miraculous gifts to others. Yet, Satan has deceived many into claiming that ability down through the ages. Those believing that claim believe they actually receive the miraculous powers of the Holy Spirit, and so they claim to be able to work miracles.

They often fail and it should cause them to consider that the scriptures teach that those who actually had that power never failed in their efforts. That is something that no one since the apostles can truthfully say. And so, in their failures, most attribute their failures to being the will of God.

How did Paul know these disciples were actually speaking in a foreign language and prophesying? The apostles had the miraculous gift of discernment. They could understand that it was a foreign language and not babbling or gibberish that no one can understand that comes forth from the mouths of those who have been deceived today. The power of discernment also enabled them to recognize that the disciples were truly prophesying and not just claiming to prophesy. No one since the last apostle died has had the power to impart miraculous gifts of the Spirit to anyone. Perhaps a closer study of the book of Acts would prevent many from being deceived about this matter today

Questions To Aid Your Spiritual Growth :
1. Who received power from the Holy Spirit to impart miraculous gifts to others?
2. Unlike those we read about in Scripture as having miraculous powers, do those who make claims of having them today ever fail in their efforts?
3. Might not a closer study of the book of Acts prevent many from being deceived in this matter?