Bible Dictionary
BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is the promised outpouring of the Spirit fulfilled especially at Pentecost and extended to Gentile believers in the household of Cornelius. It equipped Christ’s witnesses, united believers, and marked the church’s mission to the nations.
Biblical Usage
Jesus promised this baptism, and it was manifested at Pentecost through the sound of wind, tongues resembling fire, the disciples’ filling with the Spirit, and speech in other tongues. Peter identified the Spirit’s falling upon Cornelius’s household as the same promised baptism. The supplied discussion treats these events as the decisive outpourings inaugurating and extending the church’s mission.