Which biblical figure famously questioned whether the Holy Spirit had been received while in Ephesus?

The biblical figure who famously questioned whether the Holy Spirit had been received while in Ephesus is Paul. This event is documented in the book of Acts, specifically in Acts 19:1-2. In this passage, Paul encounters a group of believers in Ephesus and asks them whether they had received the Holy Spirit when they believed. Their response indicates that they had not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit, which leads to Paul further teaching them and ultimately baptizing them in the name of Jesus, after which they receive the Holy Spirit.

This inquiry highlights Paul's role as a pivotal figure in the early church, emphasizing the importance of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers. By asking this question, Paul not only seeks clarification about their spiritual status but also acts as a catalyst for deeper faith and understanding in the community he is engaging with. The focus on the reception of the Holy Spirit is significant in the context of early Christian teachings and the establishment of the church's foundational beliefs.