Matthew 3:11
“I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the HOLY SPIRIT and fire.”
What does it mean “He will baptize you with the HOLY SPIRIT and with fire?”
The phrase was originally synonymous with a personal ordeal that someone went through. In Biblical and Christian references, a baptism by fire is also used to describe the martyrdom of an individual.
At the moment of salvation we receive the life of CHRIST that gives us eternal life. With the baptism of the HOLY SPIRIT we receive the power of CHRIST to do the works He did when He was physically on this earth to the praise and glory of GOD.
The baptism of fire is the purifying work of the HOLY SPIRIT in a believer’s life, a lifetime process otherwise known as sanctification. This work of purification begins in a believers life when they receive the gift of salvation. GOD might allow us to face trials and adversities, and the HOLY SPIRIT will work through that for our souls to be purified and to strengthen our faith in the Lord JESUS CHRIST. It is of vital importance that everyone must be born again to experience GOD’s gift of salvation. And to empower a Christian to do the works of CHRIST, the baptism of the HOLY SPIRIT is to be sought and received. JESUS CHRIST is the one who baptizes with the HOLY SPIRIT and fire.
Have you experienced the new birth in CHRIST JESUS? If indeed you have, I praise GOD for your salvation. If you’re not yet born again and you want to be saved, you can accept CHRIST right now by praying and asking Him to forgive you of all your sins, and invite Him to come into your heart to be your Savior and Lord. Once you have given your life to JESUS CHRIST, feel free to ask Him to baptize you with the HOLY SPIRIT. He will empower and transform you and you will never be the same again!
Gratefully Serving Him,
Pastor Wally & Sister Mattie