Embracing Eternal Life Through Baptism and Love
Summary
Today we celebrated the beauty of new life in Christ through baptism, witnessing a powerful testimony of transformation and obedience. Baptism is not just a ritual, but a vivid symbol of surrender, a public declaration that we have died to our old selves and been raised with Christ. This act is rooted in the commands and example of Jesus, and it reminds us of the ongoing story of God’s redeeming work, from the waters of creation to the waters of new birth.
We also reflected on the tension between the instant gratification our culture craves and the eternal perspective God calls us to embrace. Our world is obsessed with speed, efficiency, and immediate results, but the way of Jesus is often slow, patient, and enduring. The apostle John, in his letter, urges us not to love the fleeting things of this world—the lust of the flesh, the eyes, and the pride of possessions—but to set our hearts on what lasts forever. The things of this world are passing away, but those who do the will of God remain forever.
John’s words remind us that the formula for a meaningful life is not new: rely on God, love others, and join Him in His mission. This is the ancient path, the old command made new in Christ. We are called to walk in the light, to love our brothers and sisters, and to let our identity in Christ shine through every season of life—whether we are young and zealous or older and wise. Our true identity is not found in our roles, achievements, or even our struggles, but in the eternal reality of being God’s beloved children.
We are challenged to lift our eyes from the distractions and fears of this world and fix them on the eternal. Like a sailor who navigates by the stars, we are to look up, trusting in the faithfulness of God, rather than being consumed by the ever-changing waves beneath us. This eternal perspective not only gives us hope and endurance in suffering, but also compels us to love boldly and invite others into the life that is truly life. Let us be found living with our eyes on the eternal, loving God and others, and walking in the light that never fades.
Key Takeaways
- Baptism is a profound symbol of surrender and new life, rooted in Christ’s command and example. It is not merely a tradition, but a declaration that we have died to our old selves and been raised with Christ, joining the ongoing story of God’s redeeming work. This act invites us to remember that our faith is not private or passive, but public and transformative. [27:35]
- The culture of instant gratification threatens to erode our spiritual endurance and patience. When we demand immediate results in our faith journey, we risk missing the deeper, eternal work God is doing in us. God’s best gifts are often found in the slow, steady walk of obedience, not in the quick fixes our world offers. [53:47]
- John’s call to love rather than hate, and to walk in the light rather than darkness, is the ancient formula for a life that pleases God. This is not a new command, but the heartbeat of Scripture: love God and love others. Embracing this way of living requires us to resist the pull of the world’s fleeting desires and to anchor ourselves in the eternal love of Christ. [57:18]
- Our true identity is eternal, not defined by our roles, achievements, or even our failures. Whether young or old, our worth and purpose are found in being God’s beloved children, forgiven and empowered to live in the light. When we live from this identity, our lives become a testimony to the world of God’s unchanging faithfulness. [01:04:09]
- Fixing our eyes on the eternal transforms how we endure suffering and engage with the world. Like the sailor who navigates by the stars, we are called to look up, trusting in God’s constancy rather than being overwhelmed by the chaos around us. This perspective frees us to love boldly, serve faithfully, and invite others into the hope of eternity, even in the midst of life’s uncertainties. [01:03:03]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[27:35] - The Meaning and Symbolism of Baptism
[28:13] - Testimony: Heather and Alex
[33:18] - Honoring Mothers and Invitation to Baptism
[51:36] - Culture’s Obsession with Instant Gratification
[53:00] - How Instant Gratification Impacts Faith
[53:47] - The Danger of Impatience in Spiritual Life
[54:51] - God’s Eternal Perspective vs. Our Timetable
[56:08] - The Tension Between Worldly and Eternal
[57:18] - John’s Formula: Love, Light, and the Old Command
[59:27] - Creation, Light, and the Story of Redemption
[01:01:28] - Learning to Look Up: Trust and Perspective
[01:03:03] - Navigating Life by the Eternal
[01:04:09] - Our Eternal Identity in Christ
[01:07:54] - Raised with Christ: Living the New Life
[01:10:10] - The Consequences of Worldly Focus
[01:13:41] - C.S. Lewis and the Call to Live Well
[01:16:19] - Finding Comfort and Hope in God’s Promise
[01:17:09] - The Promise of Eternal Glory
[01:18:30] - Benediction and Sending Forth
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
- 1 John 2:7-17
(Key verses: 1 John 2:7-11, 15-17)
- Colossians 3:1-11
- 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
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### Observation Questions
1. In 1 John 2:15-17, what are the specific things John warns us not to love, and what reason does he give for this warning?
[[54:51]]
2. According to Colossians 3:1-4, what does Paul say has happened to those who are “raised with Christ,” and what are they instructed to do as a result?
[[01:07:54]]
3. In the sermon, the pastor described baptism as more than just a ritual. What did he say baptism symbolizes, and how does it connect to Jesus’ example?
[[27:35]]
4. In 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, what contrast does Paul make between what is seen and what is unseen?
[[01:17:09]]
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does John connect loving the world with not having the love of the Father in us? What does this reveal about the relationship between our desires and our spiritual identity?
[[54:51]]
2. The sermon talks about the “instant versus the eternal.” How does the culture of instant gratification threaten our spiritual endurance and patience, according to the pastor?
[[53:47]]
3. The pastor mentioned that our true identity is not found in our roles, achievements, or failures, but in being God’s beloved children. How does this eternal identity affect the way we live and relate to others?
[[01:04:09]]
4. In Colossians 3, Paul lists things to “put to death” and “put away.” What does this process look like in real life, and why is it important for living out our new identity in Christ?
[[01:08:51]]
---
### Application Questions
1. The sermon described baptism as a public declaration of dying to our old selves and being raised with Christ. If you have been baptized, how has that experience shaped your faith journey? If you haven’t, what questions or hesitations do you have about it?
[[27:35]]
2. The pastor shared about the danger of seeking instant results in our faith, comparing it to our culture’s obsession with speed and efficiency. Can you think of an area in your spiritual life where impatience or a desire for quick fixes has made it hard to trust God’s timing? What would it look like to practice patience in that area this week?
[[53:47]]
3. John’s “old command made new” is to love God and love others. Who in your life is hard for you to love right now? What is one practical step you can take this week to show love to that person, even if it’s difficult?
[[57:18]]
4. The sermon used the image of a sailor looking up at the stars instead of being distracted by the waves. What are the “waves” (distractions, fears, or worries) in your life right now? What would it look like for you to “look up” and fix your eyes on the eternal this week?
[[01:03:03]]
5. The pastor said our identity is eternal and not defined by our roles or achievements. Is there a role, achievement, or failure that you’ve been letting define you? How can you remind yourself this week that you are God’s beloved child first?
[[01:04:09]]
6. The sermon challenged us to not only “look up” but also “look around” and invite others into the hope of eternity. Who is someone in your life who needs to hear about the hope you have in Christ? What is one way you can reach out to them this week?
[[01:11:35]]
7. In 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, Paul talks about not losing heart even when life is hard. What is one challenge you are facing right now, and how can fixing your eyes on what is unseen (the eternal) give you hope and endurance?
[[01:17:09]]
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Devotional
Day 1: Set Your Eyes on the Eternal, Not the Instant
In a world that constantly pushes us toward instant gratification and quick fixes, it’s easy to let impatience seep into our faith journey. We often want God’s answers and blessings right now, but the most meaningful growth and the richest blessings are found in patience, perseverance, and a steady walk with the Lord. God’s plans are eternal, and while He sometimes moves in the moment, more often He calls us to trust Him over the long haul, to see beyond our immediate desires and to rest in His perfect timing. When we shift our focus from the fleeting to the eternal, we find a deeper peace and a greater sense of purpose, knowing that God’s best is found in what lasts forever. [54:51]
1 John 2:15-17 (ESV)
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are seeking instant gratification instead of trusting God’s timing? How can you intentionally shift your focus to the eternal today?
Day 2: Walk in the Light by Loving Others
The call to love is both ancient and ever new, echoing from the earliest commandments to the words of Jesus Himself. Walking in the light means loving those around us—choosing forgiveness, kindness, and compassion even when it’s difficult. Hatred and bitterness keep us in darkness, blinding us to God’s presence and purpose. But when we love our brothers and sisters, we remain in the light, and our lives become a testimony to God’s transforming power. This love is not just a feeling but a daily choice to reflect God’s heart to the world, breaking the cycle of darkness and bringing true light wherever we go. [57:18]
1 John 2:7-11 (ESV)
Beloved, I am writing you no new commandment, but an old commandment that you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word that you have heard. At the same time, it is a new commandment that I am writing to you, which is true in him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining. Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
Reflection: Who is someone in your life you find difficult to love? What is one practical way you can show them Christ’s love this week?
Day 3: Embrace Your True Identity in Christ
Our true identity is not found in our achievements, our failures, or the labels the world gives us, but in the eternal truth that we are forgiven, beloved children of God. Whether young or old, new in faith or seasoned in wisdom, our worth is anchored in Christ’s love and sacrifice. This identity is not temporary or fleeting; it is eternal and unshakeable. When we live out of this truth, our lives reflect God’s glory, and we are empowered to walk in strength, wisdom, and purpose, no longer defined by the world but by the One who calls us His own. [01:04:09]
1 John 2:12-14 (ESV)
I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake. I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
Reflection: What false identities or labels have you been carrying? How can you remind yourself today that your true identity is found in Christ alone?
Day 4: Fix Your Mind on Things Above
When we are raised with Christ, we are called to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. This means letting go of the old self—our past sins, our earthly identities, and the things that once defined us—and embracing the new self that is being renewed in the image of our Creator. As we focus on Christ, our priorities shift, our hearts are transformed, and we begin to live out the mission God has for us. Our unity and identity are found in Him, transcending all earthly distinctions and drawing us into a life that reflects His kingdom here and now. [01:07:54]
Colossians 3:1-11 (ESV)
If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.
Reflection: What is one earthly thing or old habit you need to “put to death” so you can more fully set your mind on Christ today?
Day 5: Find Hope in the Unseen and Endure with Perseverance
Life brings afflictions, disappointments, and suffering, but God calls us to look beyond what is seen and temporary to what is unseen and eternal. Our present troubles are light and momentary compared to the incomparable glory that awaits us. As we fix our eyes on Jesus and the promises of eternity, we find strength to endure, hope to persevere, and courage to keep moving forward. Even when our outer selves are wasting away, our inner selves are being renewed day by day, anchored in the assurance that God’s eternal purposes will prevail. [01:17:09]
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV)
So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
Reflection: What current struggle or affliction is weighing on you? How can you intentionally “look up” and find hope in God’s eternal promises today?
Quotes
Therefore, we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being renewed day by day. For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory. So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. [01:18:22] (26 seconds)
Your true identity is of great worth because it's not temporary. Your identity is not temporary. You don't just cease to exist when you stop breathing or this world ceases to exist. Your soul, your identity is eternal. And it follows that. If your identity is eternal, if you have your identity in Jesus, it should be showing. [01:06:00] (28 seconds)
If you've been raised with Christ, that's the picture here in the waters today. The death, burial, and resurrection. Being raised with Christ. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. [01:07:54] (23 seconds)
We should be found by setting our eyes upward to a constant God. We should be found praying, reading scripture, caring for our families. We should be found moving out into the world on mission. We should be found loving others because they are eternal too. We should not be found cowering under the pressures of a temporary world. [01:15:47] (24 seconds)
We need to see a bigger picture. And often that picture is not seen on our schedule. It's not dictated by our wants and desires. It's manifested in God's plan and timing and empowered by the Holy Spirit. When we understand that, we live in this time. When we understand that we live within this, when we grasp it, there is a certain unburdening that will take place. [00:56:03] (30 seconds)
At the beginning of time, there was darkness. But that darkness was temporary. God's light came and drowned out the darkness. It was the Lord's light. The darkness of broken relationships and corruption that came after that was broken by Christ. By the love of God. And the formula continues. He says, we are to embrace the old command of love in light of the new command that Christ gives us. [00:59:54] (31 seconds)
All I needed to do was look up to see what was going on. All I needed to do was have some trust. That's what John is sharing with us here. He's giving us the formula to look up. Soren Kierkegaard says it this way. When the sailor is out on the sea and everything is changing around him, as the waves are continually being born and dying, he does not stare into the depths of these since they vary. He looks up at the stars. [01:02:00] (29 seconds)
The sailor doesn't look into the waves that are crashing and growing and fading. He looks up to the stars. The stars can be trusted. The stars are constant. And that is what John is trying to give us a picture here. It's a great picture here in 1 John. Look up. The light that illuminated creation comes from above. [01:02:46] (28 seconds)
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