Lesson 4392

 (Lesson 4392)(02-10-24) Luke 12:49-50 

    “I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!” 

 

     In today’s quote, Jesus spoke metaphorically about bringing fire to the earth as cudgel against sin in the world. He also mentioned a baptism that he must be subjected to which WAS NOT another water baptism. In today’s application, "baptized" (baptism) is used in a context far removed from its traditional association with water immersion. Instead, today’s application signifies the undergoing of a profound experience or trial, specifically referring to Jesus’ impending suffering and death on the cross. This usage of "baptized" (and baptism) stems from the Greek word "baptizo," which at its core means to immerse or submerge. Today’s application of that term, both in the context of water baptism and the ordeal that Jesus was about to endure, illustrates the flexibility of the Greek term, "baptizo". It’s multiple applications being able to convey the idea of being overwhelmed or fully engulfed, whether by water, philosophy, physical substance, spirit, or any other occurrence. 

My point being that the word baptizo simply implies an immersion. It DOES NOT always refer to water as the medium into which the action is to occur.~