The following is found on GotQuestions.org:
Christian baptism is one of two ordinances that Jesus instituted for the church. Just before His
ascension, Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (
Matthew 28:19–20). These instructions specify that the church is responsible to teach Jesus’ word, make disciples, and baptize those disciples. These things are to be done everywhere (“all nations”) until “the very end of the age.” So, if for no other reason, baptism has importance because Jesus commanded it.
We know the disciples would baptize new believers in water and they would lay their hands on the new believers and pray for them to receive the baptism with the Holy Spirit.
We also know there is a baptism with fire according to John the Baptist when speaking about Jesus Christ.
Water = Baptism for our body
Holy Spirit = Baptism for our spirit
Fire = Baptism for our soul (mind, will, emotions)
Don’t mistake the “sealing with the Holy Spirit” with the “baptism with the Holy Spirit” - two different works of the Holy Spirit in a Believer’s life.
According to the word it is one experience.
The Ephesians' scripture says those who hear and believe
the word of truth, the gospel of salvation are
sealed with the Holy Ghost of promise.
The word of truth, the gospel of salvation was first presented in Acts chapter 2. People who believe in Jesus place their trust in Him as seen in their willingness to repent, and be water baptized in His name. Those willing to do so will receive the Holy Ghost, it is a promise. (Acts 2:36-42, 8:12-18, 9:17-18, 10:43-48, 19:1-6, 22:16)
"Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.
37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, WHAT SHALL WE DO?
38 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.
39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." Acts 2:36-42