Theology Terms Explained: “Pneumatology”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
pneu·ma·tol·o·gy | \ ˌn(y)ü-mə-ˈtä-lə-jē \
The Definition
Merriam-Webster: The study of spiritual beings or phenomena; specifically: the study of the Holy Spirit.
FTG’s Expanded Explanation:
Pneumatology is the branch of Christian theology that focuses on the person and work of the Holy Spirit. The word comes from the Greek 'pneuma' (“spirit, breath”) and 'logos' (“word, study”). The Holy Spirit is not a mystical force or energy—He is the third person of the Trinity, fully God, co-equal, and co-eternal with the Father and the Son.
Biblically, pneumatology covers the Spirit’s work in regeneration (making us spiritually alive), sanctification (transforming us to be like Christ), illumination (helping us understand Scripture), and empowerment (equipping us for service and mission). The Spirit convicts the world of sin, seals believers for redemption, produces spiritual fruit, and distributes spiritual gifts. Understanding who the Spirit is guards us from two extremes: neglecting Him altogether, or chasing experiences detached from the Word. Healthy pneumatology centers on what Scripture teaches, keeping the glory on Christ and the gospel, not on ourselves.
The Biblical Connection
John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.”
Romans 8:9 – “However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you.”
Galatians 5:22–23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…”
1 Corinthians 12:4–7 – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit… to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”
These verses reveal the Spirit’s active ministry: teaching and reminding believers, dwelling within us, producing Christlike character, and empowering the church to serve and glorify God.
Used in Everyday Conversation
“Studying pneumatology helps me worship God more deeply because I see who the Holy Spirit truly is—not just what He can do for me.”
“A solid understanding of pneumatology keeps us anchored to Scripture and focused on living a life that glorifies Jesus, instead of being led by feelings or hype.”
