Scripture

” I baptise with water those who repent of their sins and turn to God. One is coming soon who is greater than I am – so much greater that I am not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and we fire.”

Observation

John the Baptist begins preaching that people should repent and turn to God for the kingdom of God is near.

John wears clothing made of coarse camel hair and he eats locusts and wild honey.

He condemns the Pharisees and Sadducees for their hypocrisy. John baptises with water, but one is coming who will baptise with Holy Spirit and with fire.

Application

Jesus is not just about saving people from hell. Any of the Old Testament prophets, and John the Baptist, could do that.

Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and his resurrection brought the salvation project to the world. We don’t have to be Jewish to be saved. All people are saved by the broken body and the shed blood of Christ.

Jesus came with a two-fold baptism. The baptism in the Holy Spirit cleanses us from sin, cast sout evil spirits, and equips to live in the kingdom of heaven now.

There is also a baptism of fire which represents judgement. The fact that many will be saved suggests that there is something to be saved from, and that’s some will not be saved. The coming of salvation represents also the coming of judgement – all who do not receive Jesus as their Lord will be condemned.

Jesus baptises his followers with the Holy Spirit, but those who refuse to follow him receive a baptism in the fire of judgement.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for the baptism in the Holy Spirit which empowers me to live for you. Amen.