696. Fire. While water signifies birth and the fruitfulness of life given in the Holy Spirit, fire symbolizes the transforming energy of the Holy Spirit’s actions. the prayer of the prophet Elijah, who “arose like fire” and whose “word burned like a torch,” brought down fire from heaven on the sacrifice on Mount Carmel.37 This event was a “figure” of the fire of the Holy Spirit, who transforms what he touches. John the Baptist, who goes “before [the Lord] in the spirit and power of Elijah,” proclaims Christ as the one who “will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”38 Jesus will say of the Spirit: “I came to cast fire upon the earth; and would that it were already kindled!”39 In the form of tongues “as of fire,” the Holy Spirit rests on the disciples on the morning of Pentecost and fills them with himself40 The spiritual tradition has retained this symbolism of fire as one of the most expressive images of the Holy Spirit’s actions.41 “Do not quench the Spirit.”42
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
476. Are the transplant and donation of organs allowed before and after death?
249. Is everything immutable in the liturgy?
336. With what authority is the priestly ministry exercised?
417. Is such a law perceived by everyone?
123. Why does Jesus call upon his disciples to take up their cross?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
What is the importance of gratitude in the Christian life, according to the first letter to Timothy?
What is the role of leaders in the church according to 1 Timothy 3:1-13?
What is Abraham’s example of faith, and what can we learn from him? (Hebrews 11:8-12)
What is the cyclicality of Israel’s history and how is it portrayed in Judges 3-16?
How to deal with anger and anger, according to Proverbs 15:1-2?
What is the church’s role in promoting reconciliation according to Philemon 1:6?
What does the image of the river of life in Ezekiel (Ezekiel 47) represent?
