a reply to:
3NL1GHT3N3D1
For what it's worth, I share a similar perspective to what Believerpriest had mentioned earlier.I bring this up, because I can relate to Christ in
different ways, including the metaphorical and abstract.
In my experience these forms of baptism manifest differently.?I was raised Roman Catholic, so that comes into play too.Typically, individuals are
baptized as infants.I expect that those exploring the faith, further down the road may have different opinions due to their age and greater life
experience.
I tend to look at water baptism as a commitment to repentance and the purity required to grow in one's relationship with Christ.Idk, working on
building the foundation required to understand the mysteries.Looking back, I describe this stage of my journey as more of an intellectual process,
anchored through faith.(mind)
The baptism of fire brings to mind the quote"That when the student is ready, the teacher appears."Imo this stage of one's life marks a deeper
understanding of the scriptures and the esoteric life of those who have persevered in their trials.Fire describes it well.
I feel that in the past my understanding and faith was more of a window dressing. Idk like practicing good works, and cultivating the virtues.It's
looks good on the outside, but it is better when the inside is in sync.Water often signifies the emotions in symbolism, while fire tends to bring
intent,strength, life force, light and warmth.(heart)
I feel that after this form of baptism, someone is more likely to realize the importance of purity in their inner lives, and that this heralds a
transformation of the heart at a deeper level.I'm having a hard time describing the the change.I feel like I never had the personal relationship I was
looking for until the I experienced this.Most will know intuitively when it happens.It's intense.
I wonder how it would go, for those who make the commitment to Christ in greater maturity.This is part of the reason that I enjoy hearing what the
more Evangelical among us have to say.As for me, I feel this change can happen in an instant depending on the initiation.
3NL1GHT3N3D1, you may want to take a look at some of the writings of Paramhansa Yogananda.The Second Coming series goes into ideas about this, that
may be easier to relate to.I feel you may enjoy his take, rather then more orthodox views.His perspective may be able to tie in more these concepts
better in a metaphysical sense...