In his sermon on Luke 3:15–18, Stephen Davey explains that John the Baptist humbly redirects messianic expectations away from himself and toward Jesus Christ, the only true Savior. John contrasts his temporary water baptism with Christ’s greater work: baptizing believers with the Holy Spirit and unbelievers with fire, symbolizing final judgment. Davey clarifies that the baptism of the Spirit occurs at salvation, uniting every believer permanently to Christ and His church. The baptism of fire, however, refers to future divine judgment for those who reject the gospel, a truth Scripture presents consistently and soberly. Davey concludes that the gospel includes both urgent warning and gracious invitation, calling every listener to decide whether Christ will be their Savior or their Judge.
A Baptism of Spirit and Fire
Add to Favorites