The Baptism in the Holy Spirit: The Promise
As taught in the Pentecostal / Charismatic tradition
Understanding the baptism as an experience distinct from and subsequent to salvation.
Welcome, friends, to this series of studies on a subject that lies at the very heart of the Pentecostal tradition: the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is a topic that often stirs great excitement and, perhaps occasionally, a touch of confusion. My aim over the coming sessions is to guide us through a thoughtful, scripturally grounded exploration of what Jesus called 'the promise of my Father'. In our tradition, we view this baptism not merely as a theological point of order, but as a vital, lived experience—an enduement with power that is distinct from, and subsequent to, the marvellous work of regeneration that occurs at salvation.
By the end of this lesson
- Define the Baptism in the Holy Spirit as an experience distinct from and subsequent to salvation within the Pentecostal tradition.
- Explain the biblical progression of the 'Promise of the Father' from the prophecy of Joel to the events at Pentecost.
- Distinguish between the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit for salvation and the empowering presence for witness (dunamis).
- Analyse the significance of 'initial evidence' in the book of Acts and its role in Pentecostal theology.
- Evaluate the primary purpose of Spirit baptism as being equipped for effective Christian witness and mission.
- Develop a personal practice of spiritual expectation and 'waiting' on the Lord for divine enduement.
- Articulate a charitable response to differing theological positions such as Cessationism or the Reformed view of Spirit baptism.
Scripture
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