What Is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?

There are two different theological perspectives on this topic.

Pentecostal and charismatic churches typically hold the view that some Christians experience a special event after their conversion that profoundly transforms their faith life. This event is often accompanied by speaking in tongues and is referred to as the Baptism in the Spirit. They support their position with passages such as Acts 8:15-17.

Personally, I find this view challenging and not sufficiently supported by Scripture. Additionally, it creates the risk of a two-tier Christianity—those who have received the Baptism in the Spirit and those who (so far) have not.

The „Opposing Position“

The term “Baptism of the Spirit” is used in two distinct ways in the Bible.

In 1 Corinthians 12:13, Paul uses it to refer to conversion. Since all people are spiritually dead, they cannot recognize or accept Jesus as their Savior on their own. It is only when the Holy Spirit enters a person’s heart that they are able to turn to Christ in faith.

However, in Acts 1:5, the term “Baptism of the Spirit” is not associated with conversion, but rather with a recurring equipping that believers receive from the Holy Spirit. According to this view, there isn’t just one Baptism of the Spirit—we are called to be continually filled with the Holy Spirit and empowered for our service to God.

This post offers just a brief overview of the topic. There are plenty of other Bible passages to consider.

What’s your perspective on this? Share your thoughts in the comments—what do you believe and why?

Love,
Mirjana Joy