Scripture Reading

Matthew 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: .

Insight on the Word

John the forerunner of Christ, had been preaching a message of repentance to the people. When the people accepted that the Kingdom was to come through Christ, and indeed repented from their sins, they were baptized in water as a public confession of their faith. The new birth is the greatest experience one can receive. It is only through reception of the new birth that we may be made ready for Heaven (John 3:3). It is the Holy Spirit who brings this experience into our lives; for every believer today receives the Spirit of adoption and is filled with the Spirit in a measure when born-again: “Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” (Romans 8:9).

But John tells us here of an additional “baptizing” experience that Jesus will bring into the lives of believers; “he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire.” This Spirit baptism refers to the fullness of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer after the new birth. This baptism brings power for witness and service (Acts 1:8; 2:1-4; 10:44-48; 19:1-7).

If you have not received this baptism, ask God for it right now (Luke 11:13)! Dedicate yourself to obedience to Christ, ask in faith, and this experience will be yours (Acts 5:32). If you have already received this gift, why not ask the Lord for a fresh experience (Acts 4:8, 31). Our Christian life should not become stale or dormant, it takes an effort each day to maintain it’s freshness. Live this day with the abiding power and presence of the Holy Spirit, for you have been baptized “with the Holy Ghost and with fire!”

Speak the Word — Christ has baptized me with the Holy Ghost! (Matthew 3:11)

Daily Bible Reading — Genesis 43 – 46