When Jesus breathed His Spirit into man at creation he became a living soul. Because that spirit came from Jesus, it was as if He lit a holy flickering flame that He placed deep within us to keep us connected with Himself. That flame could be compared to a pilot light. We often refer to it as conscience. When we get to know the Author of life, we call it the Holy Spirit.
As John was preaching and baptizing in the wilderness of Judea by the Jordan river, he proclaimed, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." (Matthew 3: 1,2) In verse 11 he says, “I baptize you with water for repentance,” but speaking of Jesus in that same verse he says, “He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
So, it appears that there are two different baptisms of which John is speaking. The first one would be a public confession of repentance; a turning away from your old life of sin and confessing Christ as Lord of your life. Going down into the water symbolizes dying to sin, being buried in the water and being raised into new life. It also symbolizes being washed clean, as a new start.
The second baptism comes after the time you confess Jesus as Lord. At that time, Jesus blows on that little pilot light within you and it becomes a mighty flame equipping you with the Holy Spirit’s power. As the Spirit takes up residence in your mind and heart, that spirit changes you. That flaming fire spills out for all to see. That fire gives you the power to speak His name. That fire cast out fear. That fire allows you to stand when all hell breaks loose upon you.
And just like all the other gifts God gives you, it never diminishes with use, it only increases and grows. This baptism allows you to be Christ’s witness before the universe that is looking on. You can witness of the Holy Spirit’s ability to change you, and to change those around you.
Wow, what a privilege is ours!
copyright 2/17/2016
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