Matthew 3:11
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“I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that comes after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit, and with fire.”
Some have thought that the baptism of fire and water baptism are both to be sought. Typically, Pentecostals speak of receiving the baptism of fire at the point of supposedly truly receiving the fullness of God’s Holy Spirit.
Notice Mt 3:7, and see that John is talking to the Pharisees. These accusative, hypocritical, carnal-minded men were not qualified for water baptism in order to “flee from the wrath to come.” Mt 3:9-10 show that John warns them that they had not qualified and is saying in Mt 3:11, in effect, “Look out, because One is coming who not only baptizes with water but with fire also.”
The meaning is that the lake of fire is a form of liquid fire, and being cast into it (the Bible punishment described for the wicked) constitutes a “baptism” (Rev. 20:14-15). Of course, none would want this baptism! Suggested reading:
• What Do You Mean Water Baptism?
• Bible Introduction Course Lesson 20 – ABOUT WATER BAPTISM
• The Truth About Hell
• Understanding Tongues