What Is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit — Meaning Explained

John the Baptist prophesied, 'He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire' (Matthew 3:11). Jesus promised, 'Ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence' (Acts 1:5). This was fulfilled at Pentecost when 'they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues' (Acts 2:4). Paul later wrote, 'For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free' (1 Corinthians 12:13). Christians differ on whether Spirit baptism is a one-time event at conversion or a subsequent experience. Pentecostal and charismatic traditions often see it as a second blessing evidenced by tongues. Reformed and evangelical traditions typically view it as occurring at the moment of salvation, when every believer receives the Spirit. All agree the Spirit empowers believers: 'Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me' (Acts 1:8). Paul commanded, 'Be filled with the Spirit' (Ephesians 5:18), suggesting an ongoing experience of Spirit-empowered living.