"I indeed...but HIM!"

August 22, 2017

“I indeed…but Him!”

“I indeed baptize you with water…but He…

shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and fire.”

Matthew 3:11

INSPIRATION

Baptize with water…anyone can do this!

     Demonstration of confession and repentance.

     Sense of uncleanliness and guilt.

     End of self-centeredness!

     I must decrease…

TRANSFORMATION

Baptize with Holy Ghost and fire…ONLY JESUS can do this!

     Evidence of His Presence and possession.

     Sense of unworthiness and Awe.

     New Life that is Christ-centered!

     HE must increase…

Lord, I do want to know the fullness of the baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire…

and repent of the life of thinking I am anything, and know I am only because of Your Spirit.  
But what about the fire?

Further study reveals that fire is trials and suffering.  This is taking on clearer meaning  - Wow!

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit activity brought persecution and suffering.  Two examples:  Saul/Paul and Stephen; and all apostles martyred!  We don’t accept this as real.

Jesus said: “If they hate Me, they will hate you…but do not fear,  
I have overcome the world.”

Matthew 10:22

John 16:33

John 17:14