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  HE SHALL BAPTIZE YOU . . . WITH FIRE
  by A.B. Simpson
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Summary: Through faith and fearlessness, we can overcome the intense
trials and sufferings that come from God's refining hand.

Topics: "Faith in Adversity", "Refinement through Trials"
Scripture References: Psalm 66:10, Isaiah 43:2, Malachi 3:3, Romans 5:3-5, 1 Corinthians 3:13-15, 2 Corinthians 4:17, Hebrews 12:29, James 1:2-4, 1 Peter 1:7, 1 Peter 4:12-13

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DESCRIPTION
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A.B. Simpson emphasizes the transformative power of fire in the
spiritual journey, illustrating how trials and sufferings refine our
character and deepen our faith. He explains that while the initial
experience of pain may seem unbearable and contrary to God's love, these
challenges are essential for spiritual growth. Simpson encourages
believers to embrace these fiery trials, as they lead to greater joy and
victory through faith. He reassures that with faith, the flames of
adversity will not harm us, referencing Isaiah 43:2 to highlight God's
protective promise.

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CONTENT
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Fire is strangely intense and intrinsic. It goes into the very substance
of things. It somehow blends with every particle of the thing it
touches. There are the severe trials that come to minds more sensitive-
to minds that have more points of contact with what hurts. The higher
the nature, the higher the joy and the greater the avenues of pain that
come. And then there are deeper trials that come as we pass into the
hands of God, as we pass from the physical and intellectual into the
spiritual. When they first come, we shrink back from their unnatural and
fearful breath.

We say, "Oh, this cannot be from the hand of a loving Father!

This cannot be necessary to me." And then come the pains and sufferings
from God's own hand, when He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver,
when He lets it burn until it seems that we must be burned to ashes. But
we can only obtain the victory through faith. The moment we cease to
fear the fire, that moment it ceases to harm us. He says, Neither shall
the flame kindle upon thee (Isaiah 43:2).

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/ab-simpson/he-shall-baptize-you-with-fire/
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