‘So he dipped himself seven times – seven is symbolic of completion, perfection and fullness – and was clean and restored – like a little child, like one reborn.’ Those threads from then to now are most certainly NOT coincidences, as there are none in our Creator.
Phillip’s observation explains why you and I have virtually no recollection of the first ‘baptism’, as we likely had not a pure heart, nor had the Holy Spirit done His work in us.
Your observation here seems key, ‘ It seems to me that the very fact that there has been a shrouding, confirms the importance!’ Part of the evil one’s insidious nature? You continue to acknowledge that we are, by being dipped in water, instead of cleansing, we are actually participating (symbolically) in the death and resurrection of Jesus, correct? Not just a cleansing of our sin since only Jesus’ blood can accomplish that…
Please let me know if I understand this It seems to me that the very fact that there has been a shrouding, confirms the importance, as this modification of the meaning appears to have led to the diminishing of the original meaning of the act.
That is exactly the truth that was deeply impressed on me. As I typed that part of the post I was moved to tears. In fact I cried at least three times while writing and re-reading this post. Moved by the fact that the wonder God intends for us to experience has been overshadowed by conflict and controversy.
‘So he dipped himself seven times – seven is symbolic of completion, perfection and fullness – and was clean and restored – like a little child, like one reborn.’ Those threads from then to now are most certainly NOT coincidences, as there are none in our Creator.
Phillip’s observation explains why you and I have virtually no recollection of the first ‘baptism’, as we likely had not a pure heart, nor had the Holy Spirit done His work in us.
Your observation here seems key, ‘ It seems to me that the very fact that there has been a shrouding, confirms the importance!’ Part of the evil one’s insidious nature? You continue to acknowledge that we are, by being dipped in water, instead of cleansing, we are actually participating (symbolically) in the death and resurrection of Jesus, correct? Not just a cleansing of our sin since only Jesus’ blood can accomplish that…
Please let me know if I understand this It seems to me that the very fact that there has been a shrouding, confirms the importance, as this modification of the meaning appears to have led to the diminishing of the original meaning of the act.
God bless you for your work!!🙏
That is exactly the truth that was deeply impressed on me. As I typed that part of the post I was moved to tears. In fact I cried at least three times while writing and re-reading this post. Moved by the fact that the wonder God intends for us to experience has been overshadowed by conflict and controversy.