Embracing Baptism: A Public Declaration of Faith
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. It's a blessing to be here and share with you today. As we continue our series on the seven commands Christ gave to the church, today we focus on baptism. Baptism is a significant act of obedience and public declaration of faith. It symbolizes our identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. Jesus Himself was baptized by John the Baptist, not because He needed repentance, but to fulfill all righteousness, set an example for us, and foreshadow His own death and resurrection.
Baptism is an act of obedience to God's command. Jesus' baptism established the importance of this act for all believers. It is also a public declaration of our faith, showing the world that we are followers of Christ. Baptism is not a part of salvation but follows it, symbolizing the inner transformation that has already occurred. It is an outward expression of an inward change, much like a wedding ring symbolizes the commitment of marriage.
We discussed the importance of immersion in baptism, as demonstrated by Jesus and the Ethiopian eunuch in the New Testament. Sprinkling or pouring water is not biblically supported as a form of baptism. Baptism should follow a personal decision to accept Christ, not something done in infancy without personal consent.
For those who have not yet been baptized, I encourage you to take this step of obedience. Whether you were saved recently or many years ago, baptism is a command from Christ that we should follow. It is a powerful testimony of God's work in your life and a public declaration of your faith. In two weeks, we will have a baptism service, and I invite anyone who has not yet been baptized to participate.
### Key Takeaways
1. Baptism as Obedience to God: Jesus' baptism was an act of obedience to His Father, establishing the importance of baptism for all believers. It is a command, not a suggestion, and our first opportunity to show our commitment to Christ. Obedience in baptism sets the foundation for a life of following God's commands. [46:31]
2. Public Declaration of Faith: Baptism is a public declaration of our faith in Christ. It is a way to show the world that we are followers of Jesus. Just as a wedding ring symbolizes marriage, baptism symbolizes our commitment to Christ. It is an outward expression of an inward change. [57:53]
3. Baptism and Salvation: Baptism is not a part of salvation but follows it. It is an outward expression of the faith and transformation that has already occurred within us. The thief on the cross was promised paradise without being baptized, showing that salvation is through faith alone. [55:58]
4. Immersion in Baptism: The New Testament supports immersion as the method of baptism. Jesus and the Ethiopian eunuch were both immersed, coming up out of the water. This method symbolizes being buried with Christ and raised to walk in newness of life. [49:18]
5. Overcoming Fears and Pride: Many people delay baptism due to fear or pride. However, deferred obedience is better than disobedience. Taking the step of baptism can lift a burden and bring clarity and power to your relationship with Christ. It is a public testimony of God's work in your life. [01:00:57]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[40:24] - Acknowledging Servants and Summer Camp Success
[41:16] - Introduction to Baptism
[41:59] - The Signature Wall
[42:44] - Celebrating Baptisms
[43:53] - Turning to Scripture: Matthew 3
[44:52] - Jesus' Baptism by John
[45:23] - Jesus' Obedience and Example
[46:31] - Three Reasons for Jesus' Baptism
[48:42] - What Baptism Is and Isn't
[49:18] - Immersion in Baptism
[50:52] - Addressing Sprinkling and Infant Baptism
[53:38] - Baptism and Salvation
[56:29] - Baptism as an Act of Obedience
[57:53] - Going Public with Your Faith
[01:00:57] - Overcoming Fears and Pride
[01:02:06] - The Best Time to Get Baptized
[01:08:31] - Should I Be Baptized?
[01:09:01] - Re-Baptism After True Commitment
[01:11:20] - Who to Invite to Your Baptism
[01:12:22] - Obedience in All Areas of Life
[01:14:07] - Blessings of Obedience
[01:15:45] - Putting God's Word into Practice
[01:16:13] - Invitation to Believe and Be Baptized
[01:17:40] - Prayer and Invitation
[01:21:44] - Action Step: Sign Up for Baptism
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide: Baptism
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 3:13-17 - "Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, 'I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?' Jesus replied, 'Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.' Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.'"
2. Acts 8:36-39 - "As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, 'Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?' And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing."
3. Romans 6:3-4 - "Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 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 are the three reasons Jesus gave for His baptism according to the sermon? ([46:31])
2. How does the act of immersion in baptism symbolize our identification with Christ's death and resurrection? ([49:18])
3. What does the Ethiopian eunuch's baptism in Acts 8 demonstrate about the method and timing of baptism? ([49:47])
4. According to Romans 6:3-4, what does baptism symbolize about our old and new life in Christ?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Jesus was baptized even though He was without sin? How does this set an example for us? ([47:34])
2. How does the act of baptism serve as a public declaration of faith, similar to a wedding ring symbolizing marriage? ([57:53])
3. What does the story of the thief on the cross teach us about the relationship between baptism and salvation? ([55:58])
4. How can overcoming fears and pride impact one's decision to be baptized and their relationship with Christ? ([01:00:57])
#### Application Questions
1. Have you been baptized since you accepted Christ? If not, what is holding you back from taking this step of obedience? ([57:30])
2. How can you publicly declare your faith in Christ in your daily life, beyond the act of baptism? ([57:53])
3. Reflect on a time when you delayed obedience to God. How did it affect your spiritual life, and what steps can you take to be more immediately obedient in the future? ([01:02:06])
4. If you were baptized as an infant or before you truly committed to Christ, do you feel the need to be baptized again? Why or why not? ([01:09:01])
5. How can you support and encourage others in your small group or church community who are considering baptism? ([01:11:20])
6. What specific fears or pride might be preventing you from fully obeying God in other areas of your life? How can you address these obstacles? ([01:00:57])
7. Identify one person in your life who has not been baptized. How can you encourage them to take this step of faith? ([01:11:20])
Devotional
Day 1: Baptism as an Act of Obedience
Baptism is a significant act of obedience to God's command. Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist was not because He needed repentance but to fulfill all righteousness and set an example for us. This act established the importance of baptism for all believers. It is a command, not a suggestion, and our first opportunity to show our commitment to Christ. Obedience in baptism sets the foundation for a life of following God's commands. By choosing to be baptized, we align ourselves with Jesus' example and demonstrate our willingness to follow His teachings.
Baptism is more than just a ritual; it is a declaration of our intent to live a life of obedience to God. It signifies our readiness to follow His commands and live according to His will. This act of obedience is the first step in a lifelong journey of faith and commitment to Christ. If you have not yet taken this step, consider the importance of obedience in your walk with God and how baptism can be a powerful testimony of your faith. [46:31]
Matthew 3:15 (ESV): "But Jesus answered him, 'Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.' Then he consented."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you struggle with obedience to God's commands? How can taking the step of baptism help you strengthen your commitment to living a life of obedience?
Day 2: Public Declaration of Faith
Baptism is a public declaration of our faith in Christ. It is a way to show the world that we are followers of Jesus. Just as a wedding ring symbolizes marriage, baptism symbolizes our commitment to Christ. It is an outward expression of an inward change. When we are baptized, we are making a statement to our family, friends, and community that we have chosen to follow Jesus and live according to His teachings.
This public declaration is important because it holds us accountable to our commitment. It also serves as a testimony to others, potentially inspiring them to explore their own faith journey. By publicly declaring our faith through baptism, we are not only affirming our own beliefs but also encouraging others to consider the transformative power of a relationship with Christ. [57:53]
Acts 2:41 (ESV): "So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear about your faith journey? How can you use your baptism as an opportunity to share your testimony with them?
Day 3: Baptism and Salvation
Baptism is not a part of salvation but follows it. It is an outward expression of the faith and transformation that has already occurred within us. The thief on the cross was promised paradise without being baptized, showing that salvation is through faith alone. Baptism symbolizes the inner transformation that has taken place and is a public declaration of our new life in Christ.
Understanding that baptism is not a requirement for salvation but a response to it can bring clarity to our faith journey. It is a way to outwardly express the inward change that has occurred when we accepted Christ as our Savior. This understanding can also help us approach baptism with the right heart and mindset, seeing it as a joyful act of obedience rather than a burdensome requirement. [55:58]
Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV): "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."
Reflection: Reflect on your own salvation experience. How does understanding that baptism is a response to salvation, rather than a requirement for it, change your perspective on this important act of faith?
Day 4: Immersion in Baptism
The New Testament supports immersion as the method of baptism. Jesus and the Ethiopian eunuch were both immersed, coming up out of the water. This method symbolizes being buried with Christ and raised to walk in newness of life. Immersion in baptism is a powerful representation of our identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.
Immersion is not just a method but a meaningful symbol of our faith journey. It visually represents the old self being buried and the new self rising to live a life dedicated to Christ. This symbolism can deepen our understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus and the transformative power of His resurrection in our lives. [49:18]
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: How does the symbolism of immersion in baptism resonate with your personal faith journey? What does it mean to you to be "raised to walk in newness of life"?
Day 5: Overcoming Fears and Pride
Many people delay baptism due to fear or pride. However, deferred obedience is better than disobedience. Taking the step of baptism can lift a burden and bring clarity and power to your relationship with Christ. It is a public testimony of God's work in your life. Overcoming these barriers can lead to a deeper and more fulfilling walk with God.
Fear and pride can be significant obstacles in our faith journey. They can prevent us from taking important steps of obedience, such as baptism. By addressing these barriers and choosing to follow God's command, we can experience a renewed sense of freedom and purpose in our relationship with Him. Baptism is a powerful way to publicly declare our faith and overcome the fears and pride that may be holding us back. [01:00:57]
2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV): "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
Reflection: What fears or prideful thoughts are holding you back from taking the step of baptism? How can you surrender these to God and move forward in obedience?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Baptism doesn't make you a Christian. It shows that you are one. It's our chance to draw a line in the sand and say. What has happened to me when we make this profession. You say I am not perfect. I'm not even close to it. But by the best of my ability I am going to let everyone know. That I'm with Jesus." [59:58] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The best time to start exercising. Was 10 years ago. But the second best time is now. The best time to plant a tree. If you want to see it grow. Was a few years ago. The second best time is now. The best time to get baptized. Is right now. Right after you were saved. But the second best time is now." [01:02:06] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Baptism is bragging. On what God did for you. It's bragging on God. Look what God has done in my life. Not what I've done. But what God has done." [01:05:08] (12 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We don't have to clean ourselves up to get baptized. We don't have to look pretty on the outside. We just have to. Have to make that commitment. We don't have to win the gold star Christian award. We don't have to be the good person that we need. It's all this. Just this. That I know I'm a sinner. I know I'm a sinner. I know I can't save myself. I need him to save me. I'm going to accept his grace. His favor. His love. His mercy. His forgiveness. And I'm going to get baptized. Because he asked me to. Because he commanded me to." [01:04:01] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The willingness for us to submit to baptism. Is an outward expression of the faith that we have in Christ. Baptism can be summarized in different ways. The gospel can be summarized in different ways. Sometimes faith alone is the one thing that's necessary for salvation. Like in John 3.16. Acts chapter 16 verse 31. Romans 10.9. Ephesians 2.8 and 9. Other times repentance alone is mentioned. Like in Luke 24.47. Acts 3.19. Acts 5.31. Acts 17.30. Second Corinthians 7.10. And sometimes both are used. Like in Acts chapter 20 verse 21." [54:23] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Baptism is an act of obedience. The very first thing. I'm sorry. The very last thing. That Jesus says to his disciples. In Matthew chapter 28 verse 19 and 20 is this. Therefore go and do what? Make disciples. Baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. And teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. His last command was for us to go. And to baptize people." [56:29] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Baptism is immersion. Immersion into water. It's immersion into water. There are two passages of scripture in the New Testament. That give specifics about someone being baptized. The first one we already talked about. And that was with Jesus. Because it says in Matthew chapter 3 verse 16. That he came up out of the water. He came up out of the water. I think it's pretty clear in this time. That unless Jesus suddenly turned himself into a fish. That he had to go into the water. To come up out of the water." [49:18] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Baptism is about obedience. It's about going public. And number three it symbolizes. Life change. It symbolizes life change. When I talk to kids about baptism. I always take a moment and talk about the words. Buried with Christ in baptism. And raised to walk in newness of life. Romans chapter 6 verse 3 and verse 4 says. Oh don't you know. That all of us who were baptized into Christ. Were baptized into his death. 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. That we too may live." [01:07:04] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The act of baptism is something that we do. As an act of obedience to the commands that Jesus gave. To us. There aren't infants or toddlers who can choose to be baptized. They have it chosen for them. But you say Pastor Mike. And if I were at camp I would use my impression. My kids voice. I use Pastor Mike. Pastor Mike. As a baby I was baptized. Shouldn't that count as my baptism? And the answer is absolutely not. It doesn't count as your baptism." [52:05] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The truth of the matter is. We don't have to clean ourselves up to get baptized. We don't have to look pretty on the outside. We just have to. Have to make that commitment. We don't have to win the gold star Christian award. We don't have to be the good person that we need. It's all this. Just this. That I know I'm a sinner. I know I'm a sinner. I know I can't save myself. I need him to save me. I'm going to accept his grace. His favor. His love. His mercy. His forgiveness. And I'm going to get baptized. Because he asked me to. Because he commanded me to." [01:04:01] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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