What sequence of spiritual experiences does AG theology affirm?

What sequence of spiritual experiences does AG theology affirm?

• A. Salvation followed by the baptism in the Holy Spirit as a separate empowering experience
• B. The baptism in the Holy Spirit occurs before salvation
• C. Salvation and the baptism in the Holy Spirit are the same event
• D. Neither is necessary for Christian life

Answer: (A)

In Assemblies of God teaching, spiritual experience unfolds in two distinct stages. First comes salvation—the new birth by faith in Jesus, when a person is forgiven and made right with God. After that conversion, believers may experience the baptism in the Holy Spirit as a separate empowering work of grace. This second experience equips them for holy living, bold witness, and service in ministry. It’s not the moment of salvation itself, and it’s not seen as optional or unnecessary; it’s understood as a subsequent blessing that strengthens and enables the believer for God’s purposes. While Tongues is often cited as the initial outward sign of this baptism, the central point is empowerment for living and witnessing, not simply a sign. So the sequence is salvation first, then the baptism in the Holy Spirit as a distinct, empowering experience.

In Assemblies of God teaching, spiritual experience unfolds in two distinct stages. First comes salvation—the new birth by faith in Jesus, when a person is forgiven and made right with God. After that conversion, believers may experience the baptism in the Holy Spirit as a separate empowering work of grace. This second experience equips them for holy living, bold witness, and service in ministry. It’s not the moment of salvation itself, and it’s not seen as optional or unnecessary; it’s understood as a subsequent blessing that strengthens and enables the believer for God’s purposes. While Tongues is often cited as the initial outward sign of this baptism, the central point is empowerment for living and witnessing, not simply a sign. So the sequence is salvation first, then the baptism in the Holy Spirit as a distinct, empowering experience.