Baptized in the Spirit

Introduction

Many of us are baffled by the baptism of Jesus, considering our theology about baptism. As we have read in the Catechism, “Baptism signifies entrance into the household of faith and is a symbol of repentance and inner cleansing from sin, a representation of the new birth in Christ Jesus, and a mark of Christian discipleship.” Baptism is inherently connected to repentance and forgiveness of sin. Jesus needed neither because he was sinless. So, what was the purpose of Jesus’ baptism and for ours?

‌If we look at the biblical evidence surrounding Jesus’ baptism, we find that his baptism was about leading us out from sin and the power of demonic forces and into the kingdom of God. Colossians 1:13–14 says, “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Jesus is taking us from a kingdom of darkness to a kingdom of light, which is the kingdom of God. Where else can we see this? Look to

Jude 5, “Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe.” Jude, Jesus’ brother, makes the startling claim that Jesus led the Israelites out of Egypt. It was an embodied Yahweh as the Angel of the Lord who led his people. This is an essential point to understanding Jesus’ baptism and our own.

‌Going through the waters of the Red Sea was seen symbolically as baptism to the early church. If it is Jesus who led the Israelites out of a kingdom of darkness (Egypt) to the promised land through the waters of the Red Sea, then Jesus, through his baptism, shows us how we move from one kingdom to the other. Baptism is not a means to eternal salvation, but a work of grace that transfers us into the kingdom of the Son. It joins us with other believers in the body of Christ through the Spirit.

‌This transferring of domains is integral to seeing what the grace offered to us in baptism actually does to and for us. The promises made in our baptism are not fully realized until we confess to Christ for ourselves. Although we have received the fullness of God’s grace and brought into this new kingdom through this new exodus, we, like the Israelites, can return to the kingdom we left through our rejection of Christ. If we take the grace received through baptism seriously, we must realize the work of the Holy Spirit through water baptism and belief in Christ.

‌Baptism is a powerful symbol of transformation and renewal in the Christian faith. In today's passages, we encounter both water baptism and the baptism of the Holy Spirit, demonstrating God's desire to fill His people with His presence and power. Through these three points, let us explore what it means to be baptized in the Spirit.

1. The promise of the Spirit is for all who believe. (Luke 3:15-17)

Acts 1:5 ESV

5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

Expectation and Anticipation: The people were "waiting expectantly" for the Messiah, wondering if John was the one. John clarifies his role as a forerunner, pointing to Jesus as the one who would bring a greater baptism—of the Holy Spirit and fire.

The Work of the Spirit: The Spirit refines and empowers believers, transforming their hearts and lives. The promise of the Spirit is not just about ritual but renewal and purification.

Application: Are we living with an expectation of the Spirit’s work in our lives? Have we embraced the refining fire of the Spirit to make us more like Christ?

2. The Spirit identifies us with Christ. (Luke 3:21-22)

Romans 8:15–17 ESV

15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

Jesus' Baptism as a Model: Though sinless, Jesus chose to be baptized, identifying with humanity and setting an example of obedience.

The Visible Presence of the Spirit: The descending of the Spirit and the voice from heaven confirm Jesus' divine identity and mission. This moment underscores the connection between water baptism and the anointing of the Spirit.

Application: Just as Jesus prayed and the Spirit descended, we too should seek God's presence through prayer, opening ourselves to His Spirit’s work.

3. The Spirit empowers the church for its mission. (Acts 8:14-17)

Mark 6:12–13 ESV

12 So they went out and proclaimed that people should repent. 13 And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.

The Gift for All Believers: The apostles ensured that the new believers in Samaria received the Holy Spirit, showing that the baptism of the Spirit is essential for empowering believers for ministry and witness.

Unity in the Spirit: The Spirit’s work transcends boundaries, uniting believers in Christ. The Spirit equips and empowers the Church to fulfill its mission.

Application: Are we relying on the Spirit’s power to live and serve? Have we opened our hearts to receive the fullness of the Spirit’s anointing?

Conclusion

Being baptized in the Spirit is more than a one-time experience; it is an ongoing relationship with the living God who empowers, refines, and unites His people.

Reflect: Have you experienced the fullness of the Spirit?

Respond: Seek the Lord in prayer, asking for a fresh baptism of the Spirit to empower you for His purposes.

Rejoice: Walk confidently in the assurance of His presence and power in your life.

May we live Spirit-filled lives, bearing witness to the transforming power of Christ in our world. Amen.