Scholarly Reflections
McDonnell, Kilian & Montague, George T. "Chapter Two: Works of Mercy and Righteousness: Spirit-Baptism in Matthew." Christian Initiation and Baptism in the Holy Spirit: Evidence from the First Eight Centuries. Collegeville, MN: The Liturgical Press, 1991, 15-22.
Montague observes that Matthew's use of baptism in the Holy Spirit and fire is developed toward "purification, that is, an ethical holiness" (McDonnell & Montague 1991, 15). The work that Matthew presents as done in the power of the Holy Spirit is focused on healing and care for the poor.
Alone among the Gospels, Matthew (12:15-21_shows Jesus as the healer of all who follow him, thus fulfilling Isaiah 42:1-2. Jesus is depicted as the one with a unique endowment of the Holy Spirit (McDonnell & Montague 1991, 16). He is also the one who distributes gifts such as the ability to prophesy, heal, and cast out demons (McDonnell & Montague 1991, 17).
Montague notes that Matthew makes no explicit reference to Christian baptism except for his commission in 28:19 where baptism according to a Trinitarian formula is commanded. Montague points out the difference in the tradition compared to Acts (2:38; 8:12, 16; 10:45; 19:5) where people are baptized in the name of Jesus. Montague does suggest that Luke may simple be using an abbreviated wording (McDonnell & Montague 1991, 19). matthew's trinitarian formula easily can be seen as a reflection of the important role of the Holy Spirit in the Christian life. The example of Jesus' baptism, where the Holy Spirit is "coming upon" Jesus suggests a very active relationship between water baptism and the work of the Holy Spirit (McDonnell & Montague 1991, 20).