In discussing the powerful spiritual side-effects of the baptism of fire, the Savior used the faithful Lamanites as a prime example. Two important doctrinal points are seen in his brief statement about the conversion of the Lamanites.
First, their spiritual rebirth came because of their faith in Christ. “True repentance is based on and flows from faith in the Lord Jesus Christ,” President Ezra Taft Benson testified. “There is no other way.”
Numerous scriptural passages likewise declare that the conversion, the baptism of fire, the mighty change of heart, come as a result of unwavering faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (see 1 Nephi 12:8-11; 2 Nephi 2:3; Enos 1:3-8; Alma 34:14-18; Enos 36:17-20).
“And They Knew It Not”
The second doctrinal point is found in the phrase, “and they knew it not.” For most, this baptism of fire experience is a continual process rather than a singular, dramatic event. “Most repentance does not involve sensational or dramatic changes,” President Ezra Taft Benson explained, “but rather is a step by step, steady and consistent movement toward godliness.”
He further counseled us not to become discouraged by expecting sensational spiritual experiences or by comparing our baptism by fire experience with those of others. “We must be careful, as we seek to become more and more godlike, that we do not become discouraged and lose hope. Becoming Christlike is a lifetime pursuit and very often involves growth and change that is slow, almost imperceptible.” (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, pp. 71-72; see also Commentary 2:174-75.)