The Holy Ghost before Pentecost part 2 of Chapter 6 of Judas Iscariot by Ogden

The Holy Ghost before Pentecost part 2 of Chapter 6 of Judas Iscariot by Ogden Kraut

1. The Gift of the Holy Ghost

There is a considerable difference between the Holy Ghost and the gift of the Holy Ghost. The Prophet Joseph explained this by saying:

There is a difference between the Holy Ghost and the gift of the Holy Ghost. Cornelius received the Holy Ghost before he was baptized, which was the convincing power of God unto him of the truth of the Gospel, but he could not receive the GIFT of the Holy Ghost until AFTER he was baptized. (TPJS, p. 199)

Only members of Christ’s Church are entitled to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; but anyone can receive the power or the convincing power. Notice the oft-quoted passage from the Book of Mormon, which is written specifically for nonmembers of the Church:

If ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, He will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things. (Moroni 10:4-5)

This is a challenge given to non-members of the Church, yet they can become affected by the convincing power of the Holy Ghost. If people who receive this convincing power, refuse to accept it, they will lose it, or it will be taken from them.

[56]         Had he [Cornelius] not taken this sign or ordinance upon him, the Holy Ghost which convinced him of the truth of God, would have left him. (TPJS, p. 199)