The Divine Work of the Holy Spirit: Part 12 - Baptism

TBC Glassboro Sermons and More · The Divine Work Of The Holy Spirit: Part 12 - Baptism

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is referred to in Scripture as being baptized of the Holy Spirit, baptized in the Holy Spirit, baptized with the Holy Spirit, and baptized by the Spirit.  The different prepositions convey the idea that the Holy Spirit is the agent and sphere of this baptism.  Seven times some variation of this phrase is used in the New Testament.  If was first coined by John the Baptizer. 

• As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. - Matthew 3:11  

Before His ascension into Heaven, Jesus said that the disciples would shortly be baptized with the Holy Spirit.

• for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now. - Acts 1:5  

Being baptized with the Spirit is an event in which all believer’s partake.

• For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. - 1 Corinthians 12:13   

Water baptism is a symbol of repentance and faith, which involves immersion into water.  As well, water baptism is also an initiation into the local church.  Being baptized in the Spirit is also an immersion and initiation.  Baptized in the Spirit immerses (i.e., place into) believers into the Body of Christ.  As an initiation, it initiates believers into the Universal Church.  As such, the Holy Spirit places believers into union with Christ and other believers (Romans 6:3, 5).   

• Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? [...] For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection, - Romans 6:3, 5
  

Baptized with the Spirit refers to the moment that the Holy Spirit begins operating in the believer’s life.  That moment is the moment of salvation.  There is no Biblical justification for a second-blessing or two-stage salvation experience.