What’s the Difference Between the Holy Spirit and the Holy Ghost?

The terms Holy Spirit and Holy Ghost both refer to the same presence (the third member of the Trinity). The difference between them is entirely linguistic and historical. In the original Greek New Testament, the phrase used is “to Pneuma to Hagion”, which means “the Holy Spirit” or “the Holy Breath.” When the Bible was later translated into Latin, the same phrase became Spiritus Sanctus.

In early English translations, the word ghost was commonly used for spirit. The Old English word gāst or gast meant “breath,” “soul” or “spirit.” When translators worked on the King James Version of the Bible in 1611, they chose the term Holy Ghost because that was the closest or most natural term to use. Over time, the word ghost changed in meaning because of its relation to the spirit of a dead person/apparition.

As we know, English has developed even further over the years, such that newer biblical translations began using the Holy Spirit instead. This was meant to make Scripture more accurate and not to alter the meaning. Both terms can be used interchangeably since it refers to the same presence.

Most churches today and many Bible translations use the term Holy Spirit, while Holy Ghost remains part of older hymns, prayers and traditions.

1. The Promise

The Holy Ghost is seen as the source of divine power for believers to live out faith and share the gospel.

Scripture: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

2. The Comforter

Jesus describes the Holy Ghost as the divine teacher and reminder of truth.

Scripture: “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.” (John 14:26)

3. The residence of the Holy Spirit

Paul tells us that the Holy Ghost dwells within believers, sanctifying and guiding us constantly.

Scripture: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1Corinthians 6:19)

4. Receiving the Holy Ghost

Receiving the Holy Ghost is a symbol of new life and empowerment.

Scripture: “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38)

5. The Guide

The Holy Ghost guides us in truth and reveals God's heart to us.

Scripture: “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.” (John 16:13)

6. The bringer of New Birth

Paul says that the Holy Ghost renews and transforms our hearts which makes spiritual rebirth possible.

Scripture: “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.” (Titus 3:5)

7. The giver of Boldness

The Holy Ghost gives boldness (courage), to believers when we need it.

Scripture: “And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.” (Acts 4:31)

What is the Baptism of the Holy Ghost?

The Baptism of the Holy Ghost (Holy Spirit) refers to a spiritual experience whereby a believer is filled, empowered and equipped by the Holy Spirit. It is a divine encounter that symbolizes deeper intimacy with God. The first baptism was at Pentecost, when the disciples received the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues which was a gift given by the Spirit (Acts 2:1-4).

Jesus Himself promised this baptism before His ascension when he said, “For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.” (Acts 1:5)

This shows that the baptism of the Holy Ghost is distinct from water baptism. Water baptism symbolizes repentance and new life, while Holy Ghost baptism imparts divine power to live out that new life and witness boldly for Christ. Although, both of these are done together when a believer makes the choice to be baptized.

Purpose of Holy Ghost Baptism

The primary purpose of this baptism is empowerment for ministry and boldness in faith. Acts 1:8 says:

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost will come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me…”

Through the Holy Spirit, believers receive spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11), strength to overcome sin (Romans 8:13-14) and a deeper awareness of God’s presence. It transforms prayer, worship and the ability to discern God’s will.

Biblical Examples

• The Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4): The disciples were filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak in tongues.

• The Samaritans (Acts 8:14-17): Peter and John prayed for them and they received the Holy Ghost.

• Cornelius and His Household (Acts 10:44-46): The Holy Ghost 'fell' on all who heard Peter’s message.

• The Ephesians (Acts 19:6): When Paul prayed by laying his hands upon them, they spoke with tongues and prophesied.

Receiving the Holy Ghost Today

The Holy Ghost is still being poured out today. Jesus said in Luke 11:13, “How much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?”

This baptism comes by sincere faith, repentance and openness to God’s will. It is not earned by works but received by grace. Many believers experience this filling through prayer and worship.