By Lesallan – Written on October 3, 2023
Presentation and Reflection of the Baptism of the Spirit
By Lesallan – Written on October 3, 2023
Ohio Christian University
THE4050 Investigating Christian Theology (ONLF23)
Professor Jeremy Kamer
October 3, 2023
Presentation and Reflection of the Baptism of the Spirit
In this assignment, I will reflect on Oden’s presentation of the baptism of the Spirit, based on his book Classic Christianity: A Systematic Theology (Oden, 2009). Oden defines the baptism of the Spirit as “the initial work of the Spirit in bringing persons to new birth and into union with Christ and his church” (Oden, p. 632, 2009). He argues that this baptism is not a second or subsequent experience of grace, but rather the primary and foundational one. He also distinguishes between the baptism of the Spirit and the filling of the Spirit, which is “the ongoing work of the Spirit in empowering, sanctifying, and guiding the Christian life” (Oden, p. 649, 2009).
Oden’s presentation is helpful in clarifying some of the confusion and controversy that surrounds the topic of the baptism of the Spirit. In his analysis, he provides evidence that contradicts the notion that the baptism of the Spirit is a distinct occurrence from conversion or regeneration, or that it is characterized by particular manifestations or abilities, such as the ability to speak in tongues or prophesy, as suggested by the Bible. He also shows that the baptism of the Spirit is not limited to a certain group or denomination of Christians, but rather, it is a universal and ecumenical reality for all who believe in Christ.
However, Oden’s presentation also raises some questions and challenges. For example, how does he account for the diversity of experiences and testimonies of Christians who claim to have received the baptism of the Spirit in different ways and at different times? How does he reconcile his view with the historical and theological traditions that have affirmed a distinct baptism of the Spirit, such as Pentecostalism or Wesleyanism? How does he relate his view to other aspects of pneumatology, such as the Spirit’s gifts and fruits, or the Spirit’s role in His mission and social justice?
These are some of the issues that I would like to explore further, considering Oden’s presentation. I appreciate his contribution to the discussion and his attempt to provide a balanced and biblical perspective on the baptism of the Spirit. I hope that his book will stimulate more dialogue and reflection among Christians from different backgrounds and traditions on this important topic.
Oden (2009) offers a comprehensive and historical overview of the doctrine of the baptism of the Spirit, tracing its development from the early church fathers to the modern Pentecostal and charismatic movements. He defines the baptism of the Spirit as “the initial, decisive, and empowering work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer” (Oden, p. 646, 2009). The author posits that the experience in question is separate from both regeneration and sanctification. It is said to be accompanied by a range of manifestations of the spirit, such as prophecy, speaking in tongues, discernment, and healing, among others.
Oden’s presentation is solidly in tune with Scripture in several aspects. First, he affirms that the baptism of the Spirit is a work of God’s grace and sovereignty, not dependent on human merit or effort. He cites several passages that show that God gives the Spirit to those who believe and obey Him, such as Acts 2:38-39, 5:32, 10:44-48, and 11:15-18 (NIV). Second, he acknowledges that the baptism of the Spirit is not a uniform or predictable experience, but rather varies according to God’ will and purpose. He points out that the New Testament records, different occasions and circumstances in which people received the Spirit, such as at conversion (Acts 2:41, KJV), after conversion (Acts 8:14-17, NIV), before conversion (Acts 10:44-48, NIV), and without any apparent condition (Acts 4:31, NIV). Third, he recognizes that the baptism of the Spirit is not an end, but a means to an end. He emphasizes that the Spirit’s baptism aims to empower believers to witness and service, glorify Christ, and advance His kingdom. He quotes from the book of John, where Jesus says that the Spirit “will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you” (John 16:14, NIV).
Though I may disagree with Oden’s analysis on some points. First, I may question his distinction between regeneration and baptism of the Spirit. He claims that regeneration is “the initial impartation of new life” (Oden, p. 646, 2009), while baptism of the Spirit is “the initial impartation of power” (Oden, p. 646, 2009). The statement being made appears to suggest that the process of regeneration does not involve the manifestation of power, or that the act of being baptized by the Holy Spirit does not result in the experience of a new life. I would argue that regeneration and baptism of the Spirit involve new life and power, as they are both aspects of the same work of the Spirit of a believer. Second, I may challenge his interpretation of some biblical texts that he uses to support his view. For example, he cites Acts 19:1-7 (NIV) as an example of believers who had not received the Spirit until Paul laid hands on them. However, this passage could also be understood as referring to disciples of John the Baptist who had not yet heard or believed in Jesus Christ and, therefore, had not received the Spirit at all. Third, I may critique his reliance on tradition and experience as sources of authority for his doctrine. He appeals to the writings of the church fathers and the testimonies of various Christian movements as evidence for his view. However, these sources are not as infallible or authoritative as Scripture and may contain errors or biases that must be evaluated critically.
The baptism of the Spirit is a crucial doctrine in Christian theology, as it signifies the union of the believer with Christ and the church. However, there has been much controversy over the nature and timing of this event. Some argue that the Spirit baptizes the believer at the moment of conversion, while others claim that it is a subsequent experience that requires certain conditions or evidence. The key truth of the baptism of the Spirit is that it is a sovereign act of God that grants the believer a new identity and empowerment for service.
Is the baptism of the Spirit is a crucial doctrine in Christian theology?
Some Christians believe that the baptism of the Spirit is a second work of grace that happens after conversion, and that it gives the believer more power and gifts for ministry. They often point to the examples in the book of Acts, where some believers received the Spirit in a separate event from their faith in Christ, and spoke in tongues or prophesied. They also use terms like “Spirit-filled” or “Spirit-baptized” to describe those who have this experience.
Other Christians believe that the baptism of the Spirit is a once-for-all event that happens at conversion, and that it places the believer into the body of Christ. They argue that the examples in Acts are not normative, but rather transitional, as the gospel spread from Jews to Gentiles. They also emphasize that all believers have the same Spirit and are equally members of Christ’s body.
Both views agree that the baptism of the Spirit is a work of God, not of human effort, and that it is based on the finished work of Christ on the cross. They also agree that the baptism of the Spirit is meant to glorify Christ and to enable believers to serve Him and His church.
If you want to learn more about this doctrine, you can check out some of these web search results:
- The Baptism of the Holy Spirit | Reformed Bible Studies & Devotionals at Ligonier.org
- 6. The Holy Spirit’s Ministries, Part IV – Baptism In The Spirit
- What is the Purpose of Baptism in the Christian Life? – Learn Religions
- What Is Baptism of the Holy Spirit? Its Meaning and Importance in Scripture – Christianity
- DOCTRINE: Baptism by the Holy Spirit | Baptist Press
I hope this helps you understand this doctrine better. Thank you for chatting with me. 😊
