23. The Real Baptism of Fire John answered, saying to them all, "I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. - Luke 3:16 Some time ago I ran across an autobiographical account by the great American evangelist Charles Finney. I am thrilled each time I read his description of the special work God did in his life one evening long ago: Just before evening the thought took possession in my mind that as soon as I was left alone in the new office I would try to pray again, that I was not going to abandon the subject of religion and give it up. And therefore, although I had no longer had any concern about my soul, still I would continue to pray. By evening we got the books and furniture adjusted and I made up in the open fireplace a good fire, hoping to spend the evening alone. Just at dark Squire Wright, seeing that everything was adjusted, bade me goodnight and went to his home. I accompanied him to the door and as I closed the door and turned around, my heart seemed to be liquid within me. All my feelings seemed to rise and flow out. And the utterance
23. The Real Baptism of Fire John answered, saying to them all, "I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. - Luke 3:16 Some time ago I ran across an autobiographical account by the great American evangelist Charles Finney. I am thrilled each time I read his description of the special work God did in his life one evening long ago: Just before evening the thought took possession in my mind that as soon as I was left alone in the new office I would try to pray again, that I was not going to abandon the subject of religion and give it up. And therefore, although I had no longer had any concern about my soul, still I would continue to pray. By evening we got the books and furniture adjusted and I made up in the open fireplace a good fire, hoping to spend the evening alone. Just at dark Squire Wright, seeing that everything was adjusted, bade me goodnight and went to his home. I accompanied him to the door and as I closed the door and turned around, my heart seemed to be liquid within me. All my feelings seemed to rise and flow out. And the utterance