The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the salvation of believers in the Christian faith. The Bible describes various aspects of the Holy Spirit’s work in the process of salvation, including conviction of sin, regeneration, sanctification, and the empowering of believers to live out their faith. The Holy Spirit is seen as the agent who brings the believer into a relationship with God, seals them for eternity, and enables their spiritual growth and transformation.
Scriptures Supporting the Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation (KJV)
- John 3:5-6
“Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit is necessary for spiritual rebirth, making salvation possible.
- John 14:16-17
“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit is given to believers as a guide and helper in their salvation journey.
- Romans 8:9
“But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” (KJV)- Interpretation: Having the Holy Spirit indwelling in a person is a sign of true salvation.
- Romans 8:11
“But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit not only empowers for life but also brings eternal life through resurrection.
- 1 Corinthians 12:13
“For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit unites believers into the body of Christ, marking them as saved.
- Titus 3:5
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.” (KJV)- Interpretation: Salvation involves regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
- Ephesians 1:13-14
“In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit is the seal of our salvation and a guarantee of the promise of eternal life.
- Galatians 4:6
“And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit testifies to believers’ status as children of God, affirming their salvation.
Scriptures Against or Clarifying the Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation (KJV)
- John 6:63
“It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Spirit is the source of life, but merely hearing the word isn’t enough unless the Spirit works.
- Romans 7:18
“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The flesh is incapable of achieving salvation without the Holy Spirit’s enabling power.
- Matthew 12:31-32
“Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.” (KJV)- Interpretation: Rejecting or blaspheming the Holy Spirit is the only unforgivable sin, underlining its essential role in salvation.
- Ephesians 4:30
“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The believer is sealed by the Holy Spirit, but grieving the Spirit can disrupt the relationship.
- Hebrews 6:4-6
“For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.” (KJV)- Interpretation: Apostasy after receiving the Holy Spirit is a serious matter, highlighting the importance of remaining faithful to the Spirit’s work in salvation.
- Romans 8:13
“For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” (KJV)- Interpretation: Salvation involves actively submitting to the Holy Spirit, who enables the believer to overcome sin.
- Matthew 7:22-23
“Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit’s power is not automatic in salvation; it requires a personal relationship with Christ.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12
“And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit’s work requires a response to the truth, and rejection leads to delusion and damnation.
Debates Around the Doctrine of The Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation: Hebrew, Greek, and Christian Translations
The doctrine of the Holy Spirit’s role in salvation is fundamental to Christian theology. The Bible’s original languages—Hebrew in the Old Testament and Greek in the New Testament—offer crucial insights into this doctrine, but they also present challenges in translation. Debates often revolve around the accuracy of these translations, particularly the nuances of Hebrew and Greek terms and their implications for understanding salvation. This analysis will explore these issues, highlight key scriptures in the King James Version (KJV), and evaluate translation difficulties.
Hebrew Text: Old Testament Background on the Holy Spirit
The concept of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament is expressed through Hebrew terms, with “רוּחַ” (ruach) being the most significant. In the Old Testament, “ruach” can refer to wind, breath, or spirit, and its meaning is often determined by the context.
Challenges in Translating “Ruach” (Spirit)
- Multiple Meanings:
“Ruach” has a broad semantic range and can mean “spirit,” “wind,” or “breath” depending on the context. In relation to salvation, “ruach” often refers to the Spirit of God acting in the world, but it can be challenging to distinguish whether it refers to God’s active presence, His breath giving life, or something more abstract, such as the human spirit.- Example:
Genesis 1:2
“And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The “ruach” of God is translated as “Spirit” here, suggesting a divine action in creation. However, “ruach” could also mean “wind” in another context, which complicates its use in theological doctrines about salvation and regeneration.
- Example:
- The Spirit as a Temporary Empowerment:
In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit often comes upon specific individuals temporarily for a purpose, such as empowerment for leadership or prophecy. This is different from the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit described in the New Testament.- Example:
Judges 3:10
“And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel, and went out to war: and the Lord delivered Cushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit empowers leaders in a specific task, but there is no mention of permanent indwelling or salvation in the Old Testament context.
- Example:
Greek Text: New Testament and the Holy Spirit’s Role in Salvation
The New Testament, written primarily in Greek, provides a more developed understanding of the Holy Spirit’s role in salvation. Greek has several terms for the Spirit, but the most important is “πνεῦμα” (pneuma), meaning “spirit,” “breath,” or “wind.” This term corresponds closely to the Hebrew “ruach,” but it is used in a more defined and theological context in the New Testament, especially in relation to salvation.
Key Greek Terms for the Holy Spirit in Salvation
- “Πνεῦμα” (Pneuma):
This term is the most commonly used in the New Testament and is crucial to understanding the role of the Holy Spirit in salvation. It is used in reference to both the human spirit and the Holy Spirit. In salvation, it refers to God’s Spirit acting to regenerate, empower, and sanctify believers.- Example:
John 3:5-6
“Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit is necessary for spiritual rebirth, an essential component of salvation.
- Example:
- “Βάπτισμα” (Baptisma):
The term “baptisma” refers to baptism, which, in Christian theology, is closely associated with the Holy Spirit’s work in salvation. The Greek word for baptism signifies not only the act of immersion in water but also the Holy Spirit’s role in spiritually immersing believers into Christ.- Example:
Acts 1:5
“For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.” (KJV)- Interpretation: This passage speaks of the coming of the Holy Spirit, which would baptize believers into a new life in Christ, marking their regeneration.
- Example:
- “Σφραγίς” (Sphragis):
This term means “seal,” and it is used in reference to the Holy Spirit’s role in confirming the believer’s salvation. The sealing of the Spirit signifies divine ownership, protection, and security of the believer’s salvation.- Example:
Ephesians 1:13-14
“In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit serves as a seal, guaranteeing the believer’s salvation and inheritance in Christ.
- Example:
Translation Challenges in Greek
- Ambiguities in Verb Tenses:
The Greek language has a more complex system of verb tenses and moods than English, leading to debates over translation accuracy. The aorist tense, for example, can indicate a past action, but it often has a broader sense, sometimes implying a completed action with ongoing consequences, especially in the context of salvation.- Example:
Romans 8:9
“But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The Greek verb “εἰσίν” (eisin), meaning “dwell” or “live,” suggests an ongoing presence of the Spirit, which may not always be captured fully in translations that reduce it to a mere momentary event.
- Example:
- Theological Bias in Translation:
Certain English translations, including the KJV, may reflect theological interpretations in the translation of terms related to the Holy Spirit. For example, the term “parakletos” (meaning “comforter” or “helper”) is used in the Gospel of John but may be translated with varying connotations, depending on the translator’s theological perspective on the role of the Holy Spirit.- Example:
John 14:16
“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever.” (KJV)- Interpretation: The translation of “parakletos” as “Comforter” implies a personal and ongoing presence, but some translations render it as “Advocate” or “Helper,” which may emphasize different aspects of the Spirit’s role.
- Example:
Issues in the Translation of the Holy Spirit’s Role in Salvation
- Doctrinal Implications:
Some translations emphasize the immediate indwelling of the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation, while others focus on a more progressive filling or empowerment. The KJV, for example, emphasizes the idea of sealing and anointing in a way that may lead to a doctrinal bias regarding the permanence of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling, which may be interpreted differently in modern translations. - Cultural and Historical Context:
The cultural and historical context of both the Hebrew and Greek texts affects how the Holy Spirit’s role in salvation is understood. The concept of the Holy Spirit as the divine agent of salvation is more fully developed in the New Testament, and some scholars argue that earlier translations may not have fully captured the progressive revelation of the Spirit’s work.
Summary
The role of the Holy Spirit in salvation, as understood through Hebrew and Greek translations, presents significant challenges. The Hebrew term “ruach” and the Greek term “pneuma” have broad and sometimes ambiguous meanings, making it difficult to pin down a single, definitive translation that captures the full theological depth of the Holy Spirit’s involvement in salvation. The Hebrew Scriptures, particularly in the Old Testament, present the Spirit as a temporary, external force, while the New Testament elaborates on the Spirit’s role in regeneration, sanctification, and sealing believers for salvation.
Translation issues arise not only from linguistic difficulties but also from theological biases that can influence how terms related to the Holy Spirit are rendered in various versions. The KJV, for example, consistently uses terms like “Comforter” and “Spirit,” but these terms may carry different connotations in modern translations, affecting the reader’s understanding of the Spirit’s role. Additionally, the Greek verb tenses and complex grammatical structures further complicate the task of accurately conveying the ongoing presence and action of the Holy Spirit in salvation.
Ultimately, the translation of the Holy Spirit’s role in salvation is not only a matter of linguistic precision but also of theological interpretation. As such, debates surrounding this topic continue to shape how Christians understand and experience the Holy Spirit’s work in their live
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation: Denominational Views and Scriptural Analysis
The doctrine of the Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation is a core tenet of Christianity, with the Holy Spirit believed to be essential for regeneration, sanctification, and empowerment in the life of a believer. Different denominations interpret the work and involvement of the Holy Spirit in salvation in various ways. Below, we provide a summary of each denomination’s view, with arguments for and against, along with scriptural references, highlighting key Hebrew and Greek words used in the KJV translation, and expanding on their meanings.
1. Roman Catholic Church
View:
The Roman Catholic Church teaches that the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in salvation through the Church’s sacraments, particularly baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist. The Holy Spirit works to bring grace and regeneration to believers, helping them in their journey of salvation.
Scriptural Basis For:
- John 14:26 – “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The term “Comforter” (Greek: paraklētos) means “one who is called alongside” to help or advocate. The Holy Spirit’s role as a helper and teacher is emphasized, particularly in guiding believers in truth and remembrance of Christ’s teachings.
- Romans 8:16 – “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit confirms the believer’s status as a child of God, affirming salvation.
Scriptural Basis Against:
- Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: Some Protestant traditions argue that Roman Catholicism overemphasizes the sacraments and human action in salvation, neglecting the fundamental role of faith alone.
2. Eastern Orthodox Church
View:
The Eastern Orthodox Church emphasizes the Holy Spirit’s role in salvation primarily through the process of theosis (becoming one with God). The Holy Spirit works through the sacraments to regenerate and sanctify believers, enabling them to participate in divine life.
Scriptural Basis For:
- Titus 3:5 – “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The “washing of regeneration” (Greek: loutron – “a washing”) refers to the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit, especially evident in baptism.
- Romans 8:9 – “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The “Spirit of God” (Greek: pneuma – “breath, spirit”) is the active presence of God, and it is essential for salvation and sanctification.
Scriptural Basis Against:
- Romans 3:28 – “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: Protestants argue that the Orthodox view on theosis risks conflating salvation with human effort, which contradicts salvation by faith alone.
3. Evangelical (General)
View:
Evangelicals believe that the Holy Spirit is the primary agent of salvation, regenerating the believer at the moment of conversion. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live holy lives and equips them for service in the kingdom of God.
Scriptural Basis For:
- John 3:5 – “Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The “born of the Spirit” (Greek: gennaō – “to be born”) is a spiritual rebirth, which Evangelicals emphasize as essential for salvation and regeneration.
- Romans 8:9-11 – “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The indwelling “Spirit of God” (Greek: pneuma – “breath, spirit”) is a vital aspect of salvation for Evangelicals, affirming the Holy Spirit’s active role in sanctifying believers.
Scriptural Basis Against:
- Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace are ye saved through faith…” (KJV)
- Interpretation: Critics from liturgical traditions argue that Evangelicals overlook the importance of sacraments in the believer’s life and reduce the role of the Church in salvation.
4. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.)
View:
Baptists emphasize the personal indwelling of the Holy Spirit at the moment of conversion. The Holy Spirit regenerates the believer, and this work is ongoing in the life of the believer for sanctification and empowerment for Christian living.
Scriptural Basis For:
- John 14:17 – “Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The “Spirit of truth” (Greek: pneuma – “spirit”) dwells within the believer, guiding them in truth and empowering them for righteous living.
- Ephesians 1:13 – “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The “sealed” (Greek: sphragizo – “to mark with a seal”) indicates the Holy Spirit’s confirmation and guarantee of salvation.
Scriptural Basis Against:
- Romans 6:14 – “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: Some critics argue that Baptists overemphasize personal salvation and fail to recognize the ongoing role of sanctification in the life of the believer, not just initial salvation.
5. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.)
View:
Methodists emphasize the work of the Holy Spirit in both initial salvation (justification) and in ongoing sanctification. The Holy Spirit is believed to guide believers into holiness and spiritual maturity.
Scriptural Basis For:
- John 16:13 – “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth…” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The “Spirit of truth” (Greek: pneuma – “spirit”) plays an active role in leading believers into understanding and righteousness.
- Romans 8:14 – “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The Holy Spirit leads believers to live in alignment with God’s will, confirming their identity as God’s children.
Scriptural Basis Against:
- Romans 3:28 – “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: Critics may argue that the Methodist focus on sanctification could diminish the sufficiency of Christ’s work for justification.
6. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.)
View:
Lutherans hold that the Holy Spirit regenerates believers through the Word and sacraments. Salvation is by grace through faith, and the Holy Spirit continually works in the believer’s life, sanctifying them.
Scriptural Basis For:
- John 3:5-6 – “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The “born of water and of the Spirit” (Greek: gennaō – “to be born”) highlights the role of baptism and the Holy Spirit in the believer’s regeneration.
- Romans 8:16 – “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The “Spirit” (Greek: pneuma) affirms the believer’s identity and assures them of their salvation.
Scriptural Basis Against:
- Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace are ye saved through faith…” (KJV)
- Interpretation: Critics may argue that Lutheran emphasis on sacraments as means of grace could undermine the simplicity of salvation by faith alone.
7. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.)
View:
Pentecostals emphasize the baptism of the Holy Spirit as a separate event from salvation, evidenced by speaking in tongues. The Holy Spirit empowers believers for holy living and service.
Scriptural Basis For:
- Acts 2:4 – “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (KJV)
- Interpretation: “Filled with the Holy Ghost” (Greek: pletho – “to fill, fulfill”) is central to Pentecostal doctrine, marking the believer’s empowerment for service and witness.
- Romans 8:9 – “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (KJV)
- Interpretation: The “Spirit of God” (Greek: pneuma) is essential for salvation and ongoing sanctification, confirming the Pentecostal belief in the necessity of the Spirit’s work in the life of the believer.
Scriptural Basis Against:
- 1 Corinthians 12:13 – “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body…” (KJV)
- Interpretation: Critics of the Pentecostal view argue that baptism in the Holy Spirit does not need to be accompanied by speaking in tongues, as the Holy Spirit baptizes all believers into one body.
Summary of the Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation Across Denominations:
The Holy Spirit’s role in salvation is widely affirmed across denominations, though interpretations vary. Catholic and Orthodox traditions emphasize the Holy Spirit’s work through sacraments and the transformative process of theosis. Evangelicals and Baptists stress the immediate work of the Holy Spirit in regeneration and sanctification. Methodists focus on sanctification and holiness, while Lutherans maintain that salvation is by grace alone, with the Holy Spirit working through the Word and sacraments. Pentecostals emphasize the baptism of the Holy Spirit as a distinct event, often evidenced by speaking in tongues. Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons have differing views on the nature of the Holy Spirit, and Seventh-day Adventists see the Spirit as vital in guiding believers toward Christ’s return. While each tradition affirms the Holy Spirit’s involvement in salvation, the focus and interpretation differ based on theological frameworks and scriptural understanding.
Conclusion:
The doctrine of the Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation is universally acknowledged across Christian denominations, yet the specifics of His work and function are understood differently. While the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions emphasize the sacraments as means of grace through the Holy Spirit, Evangelicals, Baptists, and Pentecostals focus more on the Holy Spirit’s active role in regeneration, sanctification, and empowerment for service. The Holy Spirit’s work is central to the Christian life, from initial conversion through to the believer’s sanctification and empowerment to live out their faith. However, the debates largely revolve around the means by which the Holy Spirit works (e.g., through sacraments, faith alone, or as a separate event after conversion like Pentecostals assert), and whether specific manifestations of the Spirit (like speaking in tongues) are necessary evidence of His presence in the believer’s life.
Summary Table:
| Denomination | View | Scriptural Basis For | Scriptural Basis Against |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic Church | Holy Spirit works through sacraments to bring grace and regeneration. | John 14:26 “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost…” (KJV) | Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith…” (KJV) |
| Eastern Orthodox Church | Holy Spirit regenerates and sanctifies believers through sacraments, enabling theosis. | Titus 3:5 “By the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost” (KJV) | Romans 3:28 “A man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (KJV) |
| Evangelical (General) | Holy Spirit regenerates believers at conversion and empowers them for sanctification and service. | John 3:5 “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit…” (KJV) | Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith…” (KJV) |
| Baptist (Southern/Independent) | Holy Spirit regenerates at conversion, empowering for holy living. | John 14:17 “Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive…” (KJV) | Romans 6:14 “For sin shall not have dominion over you…” (KJV) |
| Methodist | Holy Spirit works in both initial salvation and ongoing sanctification. | John 16:13 “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come…” (KJV) | Romans 3:28 “A man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (KJV) |
| Lutheran | Holy Spirit regenerates believers through Word and sacraments, working in sanctification. | John 3:5-6 “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit…” (KJV) | Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith…” (KJV) |
| Pentecostal | Holy Spirit baptizes believers separately from conversion, evidenced by speaking in tongues. | Acts 2:4 “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost…” (KJV) | 1 Corinthians 12:13 “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body…” (KJV) |
| Jehovah’s Witnesses | The Holy Spirit is seen as God’s active force, not a person of the Trinity. | Luke 11:13 “How much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit…” (KJV) | John 14:26 “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost…” (KJV) |
| Mormonism (LDS) | The Holy Spirit plays a key role in the process of salvation and sanctification, but with added emphasis on personal revelation. | John 14:26 “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost…” (KJV) | Romans 3:28 “A man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (KJV) |
| Seventh-day Adventist | The Holy Spirit convicts, regenerates, and sanctifies believers, preparing them for Christ’s return. | Romans 8:9 “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit…” (KJV) | Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith…” (KJV) |
Key Hebrew and Greek Words Used in Interpretation:
- John 3:5 (*Greek: gennaō – “to be born”) – Refers to the spiritual rebirth necessary for salvation. It is the work of the Holy Spirit that brings about this new birth.
- John 14:26 (*Greek: paraklētos – “Comforter”) – Refers to the Holy Spirit as the Helper, Advocate, and Teacher sent to guide and empower believers. This word emphasizes the Holy Spirit’s role in supporting and teaching believers in the faith.
- Romans 8:9 (*Greek: pneuma – “Spirit”) – This term, often translated as “spirit,” is central in many theological discussions. It can refer to the Holy Spirit as the divine agent in salvation, regeneration, and empowerment for Christian living.
- Romans 8:16 (*Greek: pneuma – “Spirit”) – The Holy Spirit bears witness with the spirit of the believer, confirming their status as children of God. This emphasizes the Spirit’s role in assuring and sealing salvation.
In each case, the Holy Spirit is seen as the active agent in salvation—whether through regeneration (as in John 3:5), teaching and guiding (John 14:26), or sanctification (Romans 8:9, 8:16). The Greek words provide insight into the multifaceted role of the Spirit in transforming the believer’s life.