Definition: And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 1:33. It's a really beautiful and profound image! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes Jesus Christ as being identical to the baptism itself – specifically, the arrival of the Holy Spirit. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And I knew him not…” : This is a little tricky. It means Jesus wasn’t familiar with himself before He was born and became fully human. Think of it like a newborn baby – they don’t know who they are yet. It highlights the mystery of God's plan. “…but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me…” : This is where the key imagery comes in. Jesus was sent to baptize someone. The person being baptized is meant to be a symbol of someone who needs to experience the Holy Spirit – someone who’s been lost or needing a new beginning. “Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him…” : This is the core of the verse. It means Jesus is the person being baptized. The "Spirit descending" represents the arrival of the Holy Spirit, which is the life-giving power of God. And “remaining on him” – that's crucial – signifies that the Spirit will dwell and live within that person. Putting it all together: Jesus was sent to baptize someone to introduce them to the Holy Spirit. The act of baptism is a way of being introduced to this life-giving power! When the Holy Spirit comes down on that person, they become identical to Jesus – they’re experiencing and living in the presence of God's Spirit. Why is this important? This verse emphasizes that Jesus is fully divine and fully human. He wasn’t just a good man; he was God incarnate , or God made flesh! It’s a powerful image of complete union with God. In short, John 1:33 says that Jesus Christ is the very personification of the Holy Spirit's arrival – he is the one who brings the life-giving power of God to those who are open to receive it. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or teachings?