²³ and anything else that can withstand fire must be put through the fire,^(A) and then it will be clean. But it must also be purified with the water of cleansing.^(B) And whatever cannot withstand fire must be put through that water.

⁹ “A man who is clean shall gather up the ashes of the heifer^(A) and put them in a ceremonially clean place^(B) outside the camp. They are to be kept by the Israelite community for use in the water of cleansing;^(C) it is for purification from sin.^(D)

¹⁷ “For the unclean person, put some ashes^(A) from the burned purification offering into a jar and pour fresh water^(B) over them.

¹³ their work will be shown for what it is,^(A) because the Day^(B) will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work.^(C)

¹¹ “I baptize you with^[a] water for repentance.^(A) But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with^[b] the Holy Spirit^(B) and fire.^(C)

Suffering for Being a Christian

¹² Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you^(A) to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

²¹ and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you^(A) also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience^(B) toward God.^[a] It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,^(C)