We believe that the Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity, fully God and coequal and coeternal with the Father and the Son (see Article I). He is the eternal Spirit (Hebrews 9:14), active throughout redemptive history in carrying out God’s sovereign purposes (Genesis 1:2; Nehemiah 9:30). In perfect unity with the Father and the Son, He works to accomplish God’s will in creation, redemption, and the life of the church.
In the present age, the Holy Spirit convicts the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8–11). He regenerates sinners, granting new life to those who believe in Christ, and permanently indwells every believer (Titus 3:5; John 14:16–17). He seals believers as God’s own possession, guaranteeing their future redemption (Ephesians 1:13–14; 4:30). Through His indwelling presence He teaches, guides, and strengthens believers, enabling them to grow in holiness and walk in obedience to God’s Word (Romans 8:9–14; Galatians 5:16).
We believe that the Holy Spirit came in a new and unique way at Pentecost, marking the beginning of the church age (Acts 2:1–4). At the moment of salvation He baptizes believers into the body of Christ, uniting them together as one spiritual body (1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 4:3–4). He also distributes spiritual gifts to every believer for the building up of the church, the equipping of the saints, and the glory of God (Romans 12:3–8; 1 Corinthians 12:4–11; 1 Peter 4:10–11).
The Holy Spirit is therefore the source of spiritual life, power for service, and true worship. As believers walk in submission to Him and obedience to the Scriptures, He produces the fruit of Christlike character and empowers them for faithful service in the church and in the world (Galatians 5:22–25; Philippians 2:13).