All applicants for the ministry must have which spiritual experience?

• A. the baptism of the Holy Spirit
• B. water baptism
• C. church membership
• D. spiritual gift of prophecy

Answer: (A)

The key experience is the baptism of the Holy Spirit—the moment God fills and empowers a believer for service. This Spirit-filled indwelling equips and commissions someone to undertake ministry, going beyond outward steps. Water baptism is important as a public confession and identification with Christ, but it doesn’t by itself confer the empowerment needed for ministry. Joining a church is a procedural step and does not constitute the Spirit-enabled commitment to serve. While the gift of prophecy is a precious spiritual gift some may receive, it isn’t a universal prerequisite for all who minister. Therefore, the baptism of the Holy Spirit is the required spiritual experience for applicants.