The Charismatic Movement affirms the Trinitarian baptismal formula of Matthew 28:19 as the standard form for Christian baptism. However, Charismatic theology distinguishes between water baptism (sacramental initiation) and baptism in the Holy Spirit (the empowering experience central to the Charismatic identity). Matthew 28:19's formula is affirmed, but the Charismatic emphasis falls on the subsequent experience of Spirit baptism, which may be subsequent to water baptism and is often accompanied by the charismatic gifts—tongues, prophecy, healing, and other manifestations.

Charismatic theology interprets Acts 2, Acts 8, Acts 10, and Acts 19 as descriptive of the norm of Spirit baptism as a distinct, empowering experience. The Trinitarian formula is honored, but its purpose is understood as initiating believers into the Church, with Spirit baptism providing the power for witness and ministry. This two-stage model (water baptism, then Spirit baptism) is distinctive to Charismatic and Pentecostal theology.