Is Easter behind us?

Easter is behind us and Pentecost is soon to follow. Because of the Cross and resurrection we can have our sin atoned for and become part of His family. Because of Pentecost we can be endued with power from on high for life and service to God.

Here is something to think about concerning Pentecost:

It is difficult to have a clear discussion on this topic because of terminology. It almost seems that some have not read some of the foundational texts of the Early (1900-1980) Pentecostal Movement. That would be helpful.

Things like the theology of 3 baptisms must be understood if one is to understand the position of classical Pentecostals. I did not say you have to agree, yet the terminology is specific from their point of view.

An example:

1. Baptism of the Spirit.
2. Baptism in water.
3. Baptism in the Spirit.

Classical Pentecostals see these as follows.

1. Baptism of the Spirit occurs when a person is born again or saved. The Holy Spirit is the agent who baptizes the individual into the Body of Christ. (John 3:5,6; 1 Corinthians 12:13)

2. Baptism in water. This happens sometime after (hopefully soon after) salvation and is testimonial or some say a first significant public statement of faith wherein the individual declares they have died to sin (buried with him) and come alive in Christ (rise to walk in newness of life). The agent who baptizes the individual in water is the minister of the gospel. (Romans 6:3,4; Acts 8:35-38)

3. Baptism in the Holy Spirit occurs subsequent to salvation and is an enduement of power for life and service which was promised by Jesus and prophesied to by Joel and declared reality by Peter. Classical Pentecostals say this is validated objectively to others when you hear the person speaking in tongues (Acts 10:44-46), the Holy Spirit giving the utterance. The agent who baptizes the individual into the Holy Spirit is Jesus. (Matthew 3:11, Acts 1:4, Acts 2)

Salvation is promised to all who will call upon the name of the Lord.

Baptism in water should be the natural first public declaration of faith. (Acts 2:37,38; 8:35-38)

Baptism in the Holy Spirit is promised to every believer who will ask diligently. (Luke 11:9-13; Acts 2:39)

Note: Classical Pentecostals interpret “and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” in Acts 2:38 as being saved/born again/having the life of God in you.

This is what I believe and teach.

easter