The Pentecostal Fire 

Before the Lord Jesus began His ministry on earth, John the Baptist already spoke about Him, using the following words:

Jesus baptizes with the Holy Spirit and fire. What is the meaning of this fire?

Fire Flames 

The first time Jesus baptized with the Holy Spirit on that first Pentecost, tongues of fire appeared on the heads of the followers of Jesus.

More is told about groups of Christians who are filled with the Holy Spirit in the book of Acts, but this is the only time the tongues of fire are mentioned. Jesus baptizing us with fire means more than just this outward appearance.

The Holy Spirit Makes Us Fervent 

Enthusiasm for God is something that comes and goes. It seems to be dependent on our feelings, our emotions. But it shouldn’t be like that. Our enthusiasm to serve the Lord, to love Him and to speak about Him, should not depend on our feelings. It is something that God wants to give to us.

There are two ways to always be full of passion for our Lord. First of all, we should allow ourselves to be fervent in the Spirit. We can ask Him to renew the fire in us and we can ask Jesus Christ to baptize us with His fire, again and again.

Furthermore, we must be obedient. Our enthusiasm will grow by serving the Lord. We should be Christians who are fervent in Spirit and serving our Lord!

The Holy Spirit Cleanses Us with Fire

When the Lord Jesus baptizes us with fire, He not only makes us ardent and enthusiastic. The fire is also used to purify us, to cleanse us. The Spirit of God brings us into situations in which we are purified and start to grow. Peter puts it this way:

Remember this promise: When we are insulted because we are Christians, the Spirit of God rests upon us in all His splendor! Cleansing by the fire of the Spirit is not just a painful and necessary process, it is primarily an opportunity for a unique way to experience the glorious presence of God!