8. And John also, who had been filled with
the Holy Ghost from his mother’s womb Cat. iii. 6.,
was for this cause sanctified, that he might baptize the Lord; not
giving the Spirit himself, but preaching glad tidings of Him who gives
the Spirit. For he says, I indeed baptize you with water unto
repentance, but He that cometh after me, and the rest; He shall
baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire Matt. iii. 11.. But wherefore with fire?
Because the descent of the Holy Ghost was in fiery tongues; concerning
which the Lord says joyfully, I am come to send fire on the earth;
and what will I, if it be already kindled Luke xii. 49.?