Bible Study: What Does the Assemblies of God Believe About the Holy Spirit?
- Boundless Team
- Jun 9
- 5 min read
The Assemblies of God believes the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, providing power for holy living and witnessing. We emphasize the "Baptism in the Holy Spirit" as an experience following salvation, often evidenced by speaking in tongues, to empower believers for Christian service.
When you walk into a church in Memphis or join us online, you might notice an atmosphere of expectancy. There is a deep, abiding belief that God is not just a historical figure, but a present, active force in our lives today through the Holy Spirit. If you’ve ever wondered about the "Pentecostal" part of our identity, it all comes down to how we understand and experience the Holy Spirit.
The Person, Not Just a Power
Before we talk about what the Holy Spirit does, we have to understand who He is. In the Assemblies of God, we believe the Holy Spirit is fully God, one with the Father and the Son. He isn't a "force" like electricity or a vague "vibe." He is a person who can be grieved, who speaks, who leads, and who comforts.
Definition Block: Baptism in the Holy Spirit A distinct spiritual experience following salvation that provides believers with power for Christian living and effective witnessing. It was the "normal" experience for the early Church as seen in the Book of Acts.
In the middle of the noise of the 901, from Cordova to Midtown, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Knowing that the Holy Spirit is a Comforter (John 14:26) means that you are never navigating life’s challenges alone.
A Distinct Experience: Why Baptism Matters
One of the core "AG 101" teachings is that the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is distinct from and follows the experience of the "new birth" (salvation). Think of it this way: salvation is like receiving a gift, but the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is like being given the power to use that gift to change the world.
According to the Assemblies of God Statement of Fundamental Truths, all believers are entitled to and should earnestly seek this experience. It isn't just for "super Christians" or pastors; it is for every person who wants to walk in the fullness of what God has for them.
Why do we seek this?
To be witnesses: Jesus said in Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses... to the ends of the earth."
To receive spiritual gifts: For the building up of the body of Christ.
To deepen our prayer life: Moving beyond our own words into Spirit-led intercession.
The Initial Physical Evidence: Speaking in Tongues
We are often asked, "Do I have to speak in tongues?" The Assemblies of God teaches that speaking in other tongues, as the Spirit gives utterance, is the initial physical evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. This is based on the patterns seen in the New Testament (Acts 2:4, 10:44-46, 19:6).
While tongues is the initial sign, it is not the only sign. The long-term evidence is a life that looks more like Jesus, the Fruit of the Spirit. If someone speaks in tongues but doesn't have love, the Bible says it’s just "clanging brass." We look for both the power and the character.
Overcoming Addiction and Anxiety Through the Spirit
This isn't just high-level theology; it’s practical help for your Monday morning. Many in our Memphis community struggle with cycles of addiction or the heavy weight of anxiety. This is where the battle between Sin vs. Grace becomes real.
The Holy Spirit is the agent of sanctification. While sin tries to keep us bound to old patterns, the Spirit provides the "inner man" with the strength to say no to temptation and yes to God’s grace.
Definition Block: Sanctification The ongoing process, led by the Holy Spirit, of being set apart from sin and becoming more like Jesus Christ in character and action.
If you are fighting anxiety today, remember that the Holy Spirit is called the "Spirit of Peace." He works to settle our hearts and remind us of our identity as children of God. You don't have to "white-knuckle" your way to freedom; you can lean into the Spirit's power.
Power for Life and Service
What does this look like in the 901? It looks like a church that serves its city with joy. It looks like people in Bartlett, Arlington, and Collierville stepping out of their comfort zones to pray for a neighbor or help a stranger.
Topic | Scripture | Message |
Power | Acts 1:8 | Strength to share your faith boldly. |
Comfort | John 14:16 | You are never alone in your struggle. |
Guidance | John 16:13 | The Spirit leads you into all truth. |
Fruit | Galatians 5:22 | Love, joy, and peace are cultivated by Him. |
Common Misconceptions
"It’s weird or scary": Actually, the Spirit is the most natural thing for a believer. He brings order, not chaos.
"I missed it": God is not hiding from you. If you haven't experienced the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, simply ask. Luke 11:13 says the Father gives the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!
"It’s only for the church building": The Spirit wants to be with you at your job, in your car, and in your home.
Join the Community
Whether you are right here in Memphis or joining us from across the globe through Boundless Online Church, the Holy Spirit is the bridge that connects us. We believe that distance is no barrier to the Spirit of God. You can experience His presence in your living room just as powerfully as we do in our sanctuary on Appling Rd.
We are a local church with a global heartbeat, and our mission is to help you take that next step toward Jesus. If you are feeling a "tug" on your heart today, that’s likely the Holy Spirit inviting you into a deeper relationship.
Take Your Next Step
Are you ready to experience more of God's power in your life? Whether you need to find freedom from a past habit, peace for a restless mind, or empowerment to serve your community, the Holy Spirit is ready to help.
Want to go deeper?
If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person at First Assembly Memphis. Come and experience a community that believes in the present power of God. 🌐 www.famemphis.org
Outside the area or unable to attend locally? Join our global family at Boundless Online Church for worship, prayer, and digital discipleship. 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org
Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)
What is one area of your life where you need the Holy Spirit’s power today?
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