THE WORK OF BAPTIZING INTO THE BODY
For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body–whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free–and we were given one Spirit to drink.
1 Corinthians 12:13 (CSB)
The apostle Paul wrote to the church in Corinth concerning the baptism of the Spirit. Far too often, this is understood as the baptism that brings special giftedness, which must be manifested in the expectations of others. This is not a true understanding of Paul’s focus. Paul mentions that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is available to all and serves as a bond that unites all in Christ. The baptism of the Holy Spirit carries with it both filling and connection.
BAPTIZED BY THE SPIRIT
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is linked to one’s union with Christ. The Holy Spirit comes as the promised comforter and indwells, empowers, and equips believers. The baptism of the Holy Spirit marks the moment of union with Christ and with the Body of Christ. The baptism is a singular moment that carries a continual reality and impact. One can only be baptized by the Spirit when they come into a personal, faith-based relationship with Jesus Christ.
BAPTIZED INTO THE BODY
The apostle Paul reveals that when believers are baptized by the Spirit, they are joined with other believers in the family of God. This teaches that what ties us together with fellow believers is the common baptism of the Spirit. Therefore, this baptism identifies us with other believers and establishes the common bond of being connected as the family of God.
BAPTIZED INTO THE LOCAL ASSEMBLY
Not only are believers baptized into the universal Body of Christ, but the baptism of the Spirit also serves as a common bond among those in the local church. The local church consists of a diverse group of individuals coming from various backgrounds and life circumstances. These different personalities and abilities are united by the shared bond of the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
QUESTIONS
How does the concept of baptized by the Spirit become abused?
How does the baptism by the Spirit link us into the fellowship of believers?
