Have you ever wondered, “What do the three Christian experiences mean?” Maybe you’ve heard about salvation, baptism in the Holy Spirit, and sanctification, but you’re unsure how they actually feel or why they matter.
Let us talk about it, step by step. Please read on.
What Is a Christian Experience?
A Christian experience is a personal encounter with God that transforms your heart, mind, and life. It is more than attending church, reading the Bible, or saying prayers; it is a living, real interaction with God that brings change, peace, and direction. These experiences help believers grow spiritually, understand God’s love, and live in His power.
Christian experiences are often described in three major forms: Salvation, Baptism in the Holy Spirit, and Sanctification. Each of these experiences shapes your walk with God and gives you a unique sense of His presence.
1. Salvation: The Beginning of a New Life
Salvation is the first Christian experience, and it is about being saved from sin through faith in Jesus Christ. When you accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, you experience a spiritual rebirth.
WHAT IT FEELS LIKE:
- Peace replaces fear. You feel a lightness in your heart because your sins are forgiven.
- Hope fills your life. You begin to see life from God’s perspective, not the world’s.
- Joy emerges naturally, even in difficult circumstances, because you know God is with you.
BIBLICAL FOUNDATION:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16
CAUSE: The need for salvation comes from the reality of sin in every human heart. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Salvation is God’s solution to this problem.
2. Baptism in the Holy Spirit: Power for Living
The second experience is baptism in the Holy Spirit, which gives believers power to live victoriously, serve others, and witness boldly. This is different from salvation; it’s an empowering experience that takes your faith to the next level.
WHAT IT FEELS LIKE:
- A deep sense of closeness to God. You feel His presence strongly.
- Boldness and courage appear where fear once dominated.
- Spiritual gifts, like wisdom, understanding, and speaking with new confidence, may manifest.
BIBLICAL FOUNDATION:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8
CAUSE: Even after salvation, Christians can feel weak, confused, or ineffective in their walk. The baptism in the Holy Spirit fills this gap, giving strength, clarity, and spiritual boldness.
3. Sanctification: Becoming Christlike
The third experience is sanctification. This is a lifelong process where God shapes you into the image of Christ. Unlike salvation or baptism in the Holy Spirit, sanctification is ongoing and personal.
WHAT IT FEELS LIKE:
- A gradual change in desires and attitudes. You begin to love what God loves and hate what He hates.
- A growing peace that surpasses circumstances. Your heart is steadier, even in trials.
- A deeper sensitivity to God and others, resulting in more patience, kindness, and humility.
BIBLICAL FOUNDATION:
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’” — 1 Peter 1:15-16
CAUSE: The world’s influence, personal habits, and internal weaknesses make it hard to fully reflect Christ. Sanctification is God’s work of transforming our hearts and lives to reflect His glory.
How to Experience All Three
- Accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour (Salvation) – Repent of your sins and invite Jesus to live in your heart.
- Seek the Holy Spirit’s power (Baptism in the Holy Spirit) – Pray earnestly, study God’s Word, and allow the Spirit to fill and guide you.
- Commit to daily growth (Sanctification) – Spend time in prayer, worship, and obey God’s commands, allowing Him to shape your character.
“Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.” — Philippians 2:12-13
READ ALSO: Who is God? Understanding the Creator of All Things.
FAQs About the Three Christian Experiences
Question: Can I experience all three at once?
Answer: No. Salvation comes first, then baptism in the Holy Spirit, and sanctification is ongoing. However, your journey is personal, and God works uniquely in each life.
Question: How do I know I’ve been baptised in the Holy Spirit?
Answer: Signs may include a strong sense of God’s presence, boldness in faith, or spiritual gifts manifesting. Always test experiences against God’s Word.
Question: Is sanctification ever complete?
Answer: No. Sanctification is lifelong. Even mature Christians continue to grow in holiness and Christlike character.
Question: What if I feel far from God?
Answer: Take steps toward Him daily through prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking fellowship with other believers. God’s love is always ready to meet you where you are.
KNOW THIS:
The three Christian experiences are life-changing encounters with God. Salvation gives you a new start, baptism in the Holy Spirit gives you strength and power, and sanctification transforms your character. Each experience is a step closer to the fullness of life God desires for you.
PUT THIS INTO CONSIDERATION: No matter where you are in your journey, God invites you to take the next step. He longs for you to feel His love, experience His power, and reflect His holiness in every part of your life.
