What theological concept does speaking in tongues strongly relate to in the New Testament?

Speaking in tongues is closely associated with the baptism of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament. This phenomenon is often seen as a sign of being filled with the Holy Spirit, which is a distinct experience that occurs after an individual has accepted Christ. In passages such as Acts 2, where the apostles speak in various languages during Pentecost, the act of speaking in tongues serves as evidence of the presence and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer.

The baptism of the Holy Spirit is understood as a transformative experience that enables Christians to live out their faith with power and effectiveness, often accompanied by supernatural gifts, including speaking in tongues. This connection highlights the role of the Holy Spirit not only in the life of a believer but also as a key element in the early church's expansion and mission. Thus, understanding speaking in tongues as related to the baptism of the Holy Spirit is fundamental to grasping its significance within the theological framework of the New Testament.