“I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
Matthew 3:11
The baptism of repentance is the first great qualifying step. It was not the ministry of Jesus, but the ministry of John. The baptism that Jesus brings is a baptism in the Holy Spirit and a baptism in fire. Only those willing to be immersed in the spirit and the fire are able to follow him. He accepts and loves all who would come to him – but to follow him – this baptism must also take place. To be immersed in my Holy Spirit is to be filled to the fullest with my presence; allowing my Spirit to lead you into all truth and speak to you the words that I am speaking. To be immersed in the fire is to understand the implications of drawing near to the one who is a consuming fire. It is allowing me to purify you and sanctify your life upon the alter. It is very important that every new believer who has embraced the baptism of John also embrace the baptism of Jesus.
— August 12, 2022