Celebrating Faith: Spike's Baptism and Community Reconnection
Summary
This morning, we gathered to celebrate a very special occasion: the baptism of Spike. It was a joyous event, filled with the presence of the Holy Spirit and the unity of our church community. We began by welcoming everyone, especially Spike, Helen, and their friends and family who joined us for this significant moment. We also took a moment to reflect on the past week, which was filled with our 24-7 prayer initiative. Many hands went up when asked who enjoyed it, showing the impact it had on our community. We thanked everyone who participated, especially those who took on safeguarding roles, ensuring a safe and prayerful environment for all.
We then moved on to some important announcements. This evening, we have our Pentecost service at Perth Nazarene Church, a time to gather with the wider Nazarene Church to celebrate Pentecost. Looking ahead, we have our church holiday from the 5th to the 9th of August, a district-wide event filled with fun, activities, and worship. For those who might find it financially challenging to attend, we have the "Wish You Were Here" fund to help cover costs. We also have two upcoming fundraisers: one on the 2nd of June for our mission team to Bulgaria, and another on the 8th of June for the Delitso Foundation, which provides food relief for orphans in Malawi. Additionally, next Sunday, the 26th of May, we will have a media workshop to help with the technical aspects of our services.
As we stayed together for the baptism service, we reflected on the significance of Pentecost. We remembered how the Holy Spirit came as wind and fire, empowering the disciples to spread the gospel. The Holy Spirit is the great reconnector, bringing us closer to God and to each other. To symbolize this reconnection, we engaged in an activity of making paper chains, writing prayers for those we wish to see reconnected to God.
We then moved into the baptism ceremony. Spike was asked to affirm his faith and commitment to Jesus Christ. He responded with a heartfelt "I do" to each question, showing his eagerness to follow Christ. Members of the board came forward to lay hands on Spike and Adele, praying for them and thanking God for His promises, grace, and faithfulness. We prayed for Spike's new beginning, asking God to seal this moment in his heart and to protect him in the days ahead.
As Spike prepared for his baptism, we continued with our paper chain activity, celebrating the reconnection that the Holy Spirit brings. We uplifted our offerings, thanking God for the opportunity to give and asking Him to multiply our gifts for the good of His kingdom. Barry then introduced Spike, and we recited the creeds together, affirming our shared beliefs as a global church.
Finally, Spike entered the baptismal pool. We prayed for him, asking God to bless his new life and to give him the words and actions to declare his faith to others. As Spike was baptized, we celebrated his public declaration of faith and welcomed him into the family of believers. We concluded with a final prayer, thanking God for the gift of new life and asking Him to help us live out our call to be more like Jesus.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Community and Prayer: Our 24-7 prayer initiative demonstrated the strength and unity of our church community. It was a time for us to come together, welcome the Holy Spirit into our lives, and pray for blessings across our community. This collective effort not only strengthened our faith but also created a safe and supportive environment for everyone involved. [12:19]
2. The Significance of Pentecost: Pentecost is a powerful reminder of the Holy Spirit's role in our lives. The Spirit came as wind and fire, empowering the disciples to spread the gospel and reconnecting us to God and each other. This event signifies the beginning of the church's mission to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world. [15:58]
3. The Importance of Reconnection: The paper chain activity during the service symbolized the reconnection that the Holy Spirit brings. Writing prayers for those we wish to see reconnected to God reminded us of our mission to reach out to others and share the love of Christ. This act of reconnection is central to our faith and our community. [17:23]
4. Commitment to Faith: Spike's baptism was a powerful testament to his commitment to Jesus Christ. His public declaration of faith and willingness to follow Christ's teachings serve as an inspiration to all of us. Baptism is not just a ritual; it is a profound step in one's spiritual journey, symbolizing a new beginning and a renewed heart. [54:30]
5. Living Out Our Faith: As we concluded the service, we were reminded of our call to live out our faith daily. Being baptized is just the beginning; we are called to be more like Jesus, to serve others, and to share the love of God with those around us. This ongoing commitment to our faith is what truly transforms our lives and our communities. [01:08:07]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[12:19] - 24-7 Prayer Initiative
[13:34] - Upcoming Fundraisers
[15:58] - Significance of Pentecost
[17:23] - Paper Chain Activity
[18:41] - Offering and Prayer
[52:31] - Introduction to Baptism
[54:30] - Spike's Baptism Commitment
[55:25] - Prayer for Spike
[57:40] - Paper Chain Prayers
[59:36] - Spike's Baptism
[01:07:37] - Final Prayer and Conclusion
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Acts 2:1-4 (NIV)
> "When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them."
2. Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
> "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
3. Romans 6:4 (NIV)
> "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life."
### Observation Questions
1. What significant event does Acts 2:1-4 describe, and how did it impact the disciples?
2. According to Matthew 28:19-20, what are the two main actions Jesus commands His followers to do?
3. In Romans 6:4, what does baptism symbolize in the life of a believer?
4. How did the 24-7 prayer initiative impact the church community, according to the sermon? [12:19]
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the event of Pentecost in Acts 2:1-4 demonstrate the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in the early church?
2. What does Jesus' command in Matthew 28:19-20 imply about the importance of baptism in the Christian faith?
3. How does Romans 6:4 explain the transformation that occurs in a believer's life through baptism?
4. Reflecting on the sermon, how does the paper chain activity symbolize the reconnection that the Holy Spirit brings? [17:23]
### Application Questions
1. The 24-7 prayer initiative showed the strength and unity of the church community. How can you personally contribute to fostering a strong and united community in your church? [12:19]
2. Pentecost reminds us of the Holy Spirit's role in empowering believers. How can you seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment in your daily life? [15:58]
3. The paper chain activity was a way to pray for reconnection. Who in your life do you feel needs to be reconnected to God, and how can you actively pray and reach out to them? [17:23]
4. Spike's baptism was a public declaration of his faith. Have you publicly declared your faith? If not, what steps can you take towards making that declaration? [54:30]
5. Living out our faith involves daily commitment. What specific actions can you take this week to live out your faith more authentically and visibly? [01:08:07]
6. The sermon emphasized the importance of community and prayer. How can you incorporate more communal prayer into your life, and what benefits do you think it will bring? [12:19]
7. Reflecting on the significance of Pentecost, how can you share the good news of Jesus Christ with those around you in a way that is both loving and effective? [15:58]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Community and Prayer
Our 24-7 prayer initiative demonstrated the strength and unity of our church community. It was a time for us to come together, welcome the Holy Spirit into our lives, and pray for blessings across our community. This collective effort not only strengthened our faith but also created a safe and supportive environment for everyone involved. The initiative showed how powerful it can be when a community unites in prayer, seeking God's guidance and blessings.
The impact of this initiative was evident as many hands went up when asked who enjoyed it. This shared experience of prayer and reflection brought us closer together, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. It reminded us that we are not alone in our spiritual journey; we have a community that prays with us and for us. This unity in prayer is a testament to the power of collective faith and the presence of the Holy Spirit among us. [12:19]
Ephesians 6:18 (ESV): "Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints."
Reflection: Think of a time when you felt supported by your church community. How can you contribute to fostering a supportive and prayerful environment for others this week?
Day 2: The Significance of Pentecost
Pentecost is a powerful reminder of the Holy Spirit's role in our lives. The Spirit came as wind and fire, empowering the disciples to spread the gospel and reconnecting us to God and each other. This event signifies the beginning of the church's mission to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world. The Holy Spirit's arrival marked a transformative moment, equipping the disciples with the courage and ability to proclaim the gospel boldly.
As we reflect on Pentecost, we are reminded of the Holy Spirit's ongoing work in our lives. The Spirit continues to empower us, guiding us in our mission to share God's love and truth. This empowerment is not just for the early church but for all believers, calling us to be active participants in God's redemptive work in the world. [15:58]
Acts 2:2-4 (ESV): "And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance."
Reflection: How can you allow the Holy Spirit to empower you in your daily life? What steps can you take to share the gospel with those around you?
Day 3: The Importance of Reconnection
The paper chain activity during the service symbolized the reconnection that the Holy Spirit brings. Writing prayers for those we wish to see reconnected to God reminded us of our mission to reach out to others and share the love of Christ. This act of reconnection is central to our faith and our community. It emphasizes the importance of relationships and the role we play in helping others find their way back to God.
Reconnection is not just about bringing others to faith but also about strengthening our own relationship with God and with each other. The Holy Spirit works through us to mend broken relationships, heal wounds, and restore unity. This activity was a tangible reminder of our calling to be agents of reconciliation in a world that desperately needs God's love and peace. [17:23]
2 Corinthians 5:18-19 (ESV): "All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to be reconnected to God? How can you be a bridge for them, showing them God's love and grace?
Day 4: Commitment to Faith
Spike's baptism was a powerful testament to his commitment to Jesus Christ. His public declaration of faith and willingness to follow Christ's teachings serve as an inspiration to all of us. Baptism is not just a ritual; it is a profound step in one's spiritual journey, symbolizing a new beginning and a renewed heart. It is a public affirmation of one's faith and a commitment to live according to God's will.
This moment of baptism is a reminder of the transformative power of faith. It calls us to reflect on our own commitment to Christ and to renew our dedication to following His teachings. Spike's example encourages us to take bold steps in our faith journey, trusting in God's promises and grace. [54:30]
Romans 6:4 (ESV): "We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life."
Reflection: Reflect on your own baptism or commitment to faith. How can you renew your dedication to following Christ's teachings in your daily life?
Day 5: Living Out Our Faith
As we concluded the service, we were reminded of our call to live out our faith daily. Being baptized is just the beginning; we are called to be more like Jesus, to serve others, and to share the love of God with those around us. This ongoing commitment to our faith is what truly transforms our lives and our communities. It is through our actions and daily choices that we demonstrate our faith and make a difference in the world.
Living out our faith means embodying the teachings of Jesus in every aspect of our lives. It involves serving others, showing compassion, and being a light in the darkness. This call to action challenges us to move beyond mere words and to live in a way that reflects God's love and grace. [01:08:07]
James 2:17 (ESV): "So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
Reflection: What is one practical way you can live out your faith this week? How can you serve others and share God's love in your daily interactions?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The Holy Spirit is the great reconnector, isn't he? He comes to reconnect us to God and reconnect us to each other. So while we're all together and throughout this service, we've got a wee activity to celebrate this reconnection this morning. We're going to make some good old fashioned paper chains to remember just how much God reconnects us through his spirit this morning." [17:23]
2. "We believe in God the Father Almighty creator of heaven and earth and in Jesus Christ his only son our Lord who was conceived of the Holy Spirit born of the Virgin Mary suffered under Pontius Pilate was crucified died and was buried he descended into hell the third day he arose again from the dead he ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty." [52:50]
3. "Thank you that when he goes down into the water so he can remember your sacrifice so he can receive your forgiveness and as he comes out of the water that he would remember and claim the new life that you have promised him." [55:40]
4. "We thank you for the reminder that as we are baptized our call is to be with you more to be like you more and do what you do and thank you that you call us your beloved people and I pray that we would live into that today to serve you." [01:08:07]
5. "We thank you for your promises to love us for your grace and your faithfulness." [55:09]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Hands up who's enjoyed it yeah it's been a wonderful time over at the charter just to take time and space to welcome the Holy Spirit into our lives again to receive from him and also pray a blessing across our community this week and just thank you so much to everyone who's been with us this morning and we'll see you next week thank you to everyone who gave their time for that particularly for the safeguarding slots I know that a few people said to me how pleased they were they weren't just going in on their own through the night so there are people there praying for them but also keeping them safe it was just such time well spent so thank you for those who invested in that way this week and we're going to look forward in the weeks to come to see what testimonies we have with this time we know that God was working in us and when he works in us he does mighty things in our community so we're looking forward to testimonies of that time." [12:19]
2. "The Holy Spirit propelled them out and he gave them the ability to speak in different languages so that everyone could hear and understand the good news of the gospel, the good news that Jesus came to fix the separation between us and God and us and each other." [15:58]
3. "You can do this throughout the service and by the end of the service. You can also write on a wee prayer of somebody you'd love to be reconnected to God. So use the pens to write the name of somebody you would love this Pentecost Sunday to be reconnected to Jesus. And we'll see just how many of these we can make throughout the service as we go into our time of baptism." [17:23]
4. "Do you hold to these truths and doctrines and do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour and that he saves you now if so answer I do I do do you commit yourself to following Christ and serving his kingdom in obedience to his ways and the strength of God's Spirit if so answer I do I do will you be baptised into this faith if so answer I will I will he's keen." [54:30]
5. "We thank you that this morning, we have so much to celebrate with each other, not least the baptism of Spike this morning. And we thank you that we can give you our offerings this morning as well. The little we have to offer because we know that you will multiply that for the good of the kingdom to see other lives reconnected to you and our communities changed because of the love of God." [18:41]
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