The early church recommended using “living water” when possible for baptism. Living water is flowing water. Standing water could not adequately symbolize the work of the Spirit. Jesus said that “living water” is about the Spirit. When we are baptized into Christ we are baptized into the Spirit’s flowing stream; He becomes in us an artisan well that springs a river of Living Water. His work in us works against stagnation and toward life. This is not a one-time drink but it is one all-sufficient spiritual water source. Living water keeps us fresh, and as often as we flow with it, and as often as we drink from it gives life, the very life of God. Jesus shouts out an invitation to us come and drink.
“On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, ‘Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’ ” (When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.” (John 7:37–39 NLT).
