Embracing Faith: The Journey of Baptism and Christ
Summary
### Summary
Welcome, everyone. Today, we gather to celebrate the baptism of two new believers, Micah and Kay. Their excitement and commitment to Christ are truly inspiring. As they begin their faith journey, let us all remember to support and walk alongside them. Baptism is a powerful symbol of being buried with Christ and raised to walk in the newness of life. It’s a public declaration of faith and a reminder to all of us to continue on our spiritual journey, no matter where we are.
We then moved into a time of prayer, thanking God for His love, grace, and mercy. We prayed for those who have recently given their lives to Christ and for anyone who might be far from God to return to Him. We acknowledged that through Christ, we have access to the Father, and we celebrated the character of God's goodness, fatherhood, and love.
As we transitioned to the offertory, we were reminded of the importance of giving and supporting the church. We also took a moment to honor those who have served and sacrificed for our country, especially as we remember Memorial Day. We prayed for the families who have lost loved ones in service and reflected on the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who gave His life for our freedom.
We then delved into the core of today's message, focusing on the Trinity, specifically the role of Jesus, the Son of God. We explored the concept of the pre-incarnate Christ, emphasizing that Jesus has always existed as part of the Trinity. He is not a creation but the Creator, co-equal with God the Father and the Holy Spirit. This understanding is crucial as it forms the foundation of our faith.
We discussed the incarnation of Christ, where God took on flesh and dwelt among us. This act was not just to be a cute baby in a manger but to ultimately die on the cross for our sins. Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are central to our faith, providing us with the hope of eternal life.
We also touched on the submission within the Trinity, where Jesus submitted to the Father, especially evident in the Garden of Gethsemane. This submission is a model for us, showing that even in His humanity, Jesus sought to do the Father's will.
Finally, we emphasized the importance of knowing Jesus to know God. Jesus is the exact representation of God's nature, and through Him, we have access to the Father. If you need forgiveness, a friend, a brother, or a Savior, you need to know Jesus. We concluded with an invitation for anyone who has not yet given their life to Christ to do so today.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of Baptism and Community Support: Baptism is a significant step in a believer's journey, symbolizing being buried with Christ and raised to walk in newness of life. It’s a public declaration of faith and a reminder for the church community to support and walk alongside new believers. This communal support is crucial for nurturing and growing in faith. [24:24]
2. The Pre-Incarnate Christ: Jesus has always existed as part of the Trinity. He is not a creation but the Creator, co-equal with God the Father and the Holy Spirit. This understanding is foundational to our faith, as it affirms the divinity of Christ and His eternal existence. Recognizing Jesus as the pre-incarnate Christ helps us understand His role in creation and His eternal nature. [59:15]
3. The Incarnation and Sacrifice of Christ: The incarnation of Christ, where God took on flesh, is central to our faith. Jesus was born to ultimately die on the cross for our sins, providing us with the hope of eternal life. His life, death, and resurrection are the cornerstone of our salvation, reminding us of the immense love and sacrifice of God. [01:09:01]
4. Submission Within the Trinity: Jesus' submission to the Father, especially evident in the Garden of Gethsemane, is a powerful model for us. Even in His humanity, Jesus sought to do the Father's will, showing us the importance of submission and obedience to God. This submission within the Trinity highlights the harmonious relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. [01:19:08]
5. Knowing Jesus to Know God: Jesus is the exact representation of God's nature. Through Him, we have access to the Father. If you need forgiveness, a friend, a brother, or a Savior, you need to know Jesus. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through Him. This relationship with Jesus is essential for understanding and experiencing the fullness of God. [01:24:51]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[21:50] - Baptism of Kay and Micah
[24:24] - Prayer and Thanksgiving
[49:50] - Offertory and Memorial Day Reflection
[52:23] - Introduction to the Trinity
[54:54] - The Pre-Incarnate Christ
[59:15] - Jesus as the Creator
[01:09:01] - The Incarnation of Christ
[01:19:08] - Submission Within the Trinity
[01:24:51] - Knowing Jesus to Know God
[01:27:23] - Invitation and Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 1:1-3: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made."
2. John 1:14: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
3. John 14:6: "Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. What does John 1:1-3 tell us about the nature and existence of Jesus before His incarnation?
2. According to John 1:14, what significant event does the term "the Word became flesh" refer to, and what does it reveal about Jesus?
3. In John 14:6, what exclusive claim does Jesus make about Himself, and what does this imply about the way to God?
4. How did the pastor describe the significance of baptism for new believers like Micah and Kay? ([23:00])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to understand that Jesus has always existed as part of the Trinity and is not a creation? How does this shape our faith? ([59:50])
2. How does the incarnation of Jesus, as described in John 1:14, demonstrate God's love and commitment to humanity? ([01:09:01])
3. What does Jesus' statement in John 14:6 imply about the necessity of knowing Him to have a relationship with God? How does this affect our approach to other religions? ([01:24:51])
4. How does Jesus' submission to the Father, especially in the Garden of Gethsemane, serve as a model for our own obedience and submission to God's will? ([01:19:08])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own baptism or the baptism of others you have witnessed. How did it impact your faith journey, and how can you support new believers in their walk with Christ? ([23:00])
2. Considering the eternal existence of Jesus, how does this understanding influence your daily worship and relationship with Him? ([59:50])
3. The incarnation of Jesus shows God's willingness to enter into our world and experience our struggles. How can you embody this kind of love and presence in the lives of those around you? ([01:09:01])
4. Jesus' submission to the Father was evident in His prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane. Are there areas in your life where you struggle to submit to God's will? How can you follow Jesus' example of obedience? ([01:19:08])
5. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. How can you deepen your relationship with Him this week? Is there a specific practice or habit you can adopt to know Him better? ([01:24:51])
6. Reflect on the pastor's invitation for those who have not yet given their life to Christ. If you have already made this commitment, how can you share this invitation with others in your life? ([01:24:51])
7. The sermon emphasized the importance of community support for new believers. How can you actively participate in your church community to support and encourage others in their faith journey? ([23:00])
Devotional
Day 1: The Significance of Baptism and Community Support
Baptism is a profound step in a believer's journey, symbolizing being buried with Christ and raised to walk in newness of life. It’s a public declaration of faith and a reminder for the church community to support and walk alongside new believers. This communal support is crucial for nurturing and growing in faith. As we witness the baptism of new believers, we are reminded of our own commitment to Christ and the importance of being part of a supportive faith community. Let us remember to encourage and uplift one another as we all strive to grow in our spiritual journeys. [24:24]
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: Think of a new believer in your community. How can you support and encourage them in their faith journey this week?
Day 2: The Eternal Nature of Christ
Jesus has always existed as part of the Trinity. He is not a creation but the Creator, co-equal with God the Father and the Holy Spirit. This understanding is foundational to our faith, as it affirms the divinity of Christ and His eternal existence. Recognizing Jesus as the pre-incarnate Christ helps us understand His role in creation and His eternal nature. This knowledge deepens our appreciation of His sacrifice and the magnitude of His love for us. [59:15]
Colossians 1:16-17 (ESV): "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together."
Reflection: How does understanding Jesus as the eternal Creator change your perspective on His role in your life and the world around you?
Day 3: The Incarnation and Sacrifice of Christ
The incarnation of Christ, where God took on flesh, is central to our faith. Jesus was born to ultimately die on the cross for our sins, providing us with the hope of eternal life. His life, death, and resurrection are the cornerstone of our salvation, reminding us of the immense love and sacrifice of God. This act of love is not just a historical event but a present reality that offers us hope and redemption. Reflect on the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and how it impacts your daily life. [01:09:01]
1 Peter 2:24 (ESV): "He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed."
Reflection: In what ways can you live out the reality of Jesus' sacrifice in your daily actions and decisions?
Day 4: Submission Within the Trinity
Jesus' submission to the Father, especially evident in the Garden of Gethsemane, is a powerful model for us. Even in His humanity, Jesus sought to do the Father's will, showing us the importance of submission and obedience to God. This submission within the Trinity highlights the harmonious relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. As believers, we are called to follow Jesus' example of submission, trusting in God's plan and seeking to do His will in our lives. [01:19:08]
Luke 22:42 (ESV): "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find it challenging to submit to God's will? How can you take a step towards surrendering that area to Him today?
Day 5: Knowing Jesus to Know God
Jesus is the exact representation of God's nature. Through Him, we have access to the Father. If you need forgiveness, a friend, a brother, or a Savior, you need to know Jesus. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through Him. This relationship with Jesus is essential for understanding and experiencing the fullness of God. By knowing Jesus, we come to know the heart of God and experience His love, grace, and mercy in our lives. [01:24:51]
Hebrews 1:3 (ESV): "He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high."
Reflection: How can you deepen your relationship with Jesus this week to better understand and experience the fullness of God?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "And that's the beauty of the church. As we all come together in Christ, we can unite in him. So, Micah, who is it you profess as your Lord and Savior? And what does he want to do for all these witnesses? Then I baptize you, my brother, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Buried with Christ and raised to walk in the newness of life. Buddy, you are going down, man. I love it. Amen. Proud of you, buddy. Whoo!" [24:24]
2. "When we look to Jesus we should see grace. If we're not doing those two things in church. We're doing church wrong. Because that's the character of Christ. When we look to Jesus. We look for the glory. We look for the truth. We look for the grace. The second person of the Trinity came to dwell among us in the flesh. So that we could physically know God. And so. Now this is really important. And so God could physically relate to you and me. It says Jesus was tempted in every way you and I were tempted. But yet he never sinned." [01:10:55]
3. "So also remind for ultimately, I love Memorial Day because it's great that we make human sacrifice, but ultimately without the sacrifice of Jesus, there is no freedom. The Bible tells us that when Jesus set something free, what he has set free is free indeed. So if you enjoy the freedoms of America, it's more than beer or barbecue. It's more than a picnic. It's more than a parade. It's more than a day off. Right? It's something we need to really take pause and reflect and remember. So I want to encourage you to do that this weekend." [54:26]
4. "If you want to see God. If you want evidence of God. Look to Jesus. If you want to see what God is like. Look to Jesus. The resemblance is exact. Exact. The Bible leaves no distinction that they are the exact replication in spirit as one another. In full essence. So Jesus said. If you have seen me. You have seen the Father. In John 14.9. Jesus is the earthly representation of God the Father." [01:16:26]
5. "So today as we celebrate, remember when one person repents and turns to Christ, that all of heaven rejoices. So we get to be honored today to join all of heaven in rejoicing over Micah and Kay as they come and profess Christ as their Lord and Savior." [21:50]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Jesus was there at the beginning of creation. He's not created. He is a creator. Everybody get that. He's not a creation. He is the creator. So Jesus was always there. Genesis 1.26. Let us make man in our image and in our likeness. The plurality of God comes out here in this very talk. Even though the Hebrew people may not have fully comprehended the Trinity. Definitely even though they understood the Lord our God is one. God has definitely cleared, made a way even from the very beginning that he was taught. He wasn't like schizophrenic talking to himself. Right? He's talking in the oneness of God. The Father, the Son, and the Spirit communicating. Let us make mankind." [01:02:17]
2. "And so, that's where scapegoat comes from, by the way, if you didn't know that, you can go look that up. So, he's taking your sin away. So, we have sacrifices, all these things. Jesus fulfills all that for you and me. He is that for you and me. He is our scapegoat. He is our substitution. He is our sacrifice. He is the one that shed his blood for us. He is our mercy seat. And when we come to him, because he's the high priest, we have the way to the Father. You see, the only person that can go into the Holy of Holies in that day, was the high priest. And it was so holy in that room, behind the veil, by the way, we were singing a song that says the veil was ripped, you don't know what that is, there was a veil that separated the Holy of Holies from people. And God is saying when Jesus is death, he broke that veil. And now we have access through Christ to him." [01:23:31]
3. "The Son of God shows us the Father. If you want to know what the Father looks like. You look to Jesus. Jesus is talking with his disciples. And you know. He's sitting there and Philip and some other ones are talking. And he says. Listen. Haven't you seen me? Haven't you been hanging out with me? If you've seen me. You've seen the Father. You know. So Jesus is saying. I'm it. I know that probably blew their mind. You know. And he's sitting there. And they're like. What? How can this be? So when we look. Look. Some children resemble their parents. You know. Many people think Samuel looks just like me. Why are you shaking your head Sonny? Alright. Yeah. Some people say Samuel looks just like me. Except he's got that mustache. Right? Some people say. Macy Joy. I can see both. Shawnetta and you and her. And then some people just say. Savannah is the spitting image of Shawnetta. Yeah. Some of you are shaking your heads on that. Yeah. She's much better looking. Samuel got the bad end of the deal. Right? So. Anyway. Um. But we resemble. We resemble things. So now. Even though Jesus isn't an offspring. Remember. He's the same substance. Right? So he totally reflects the fullness of who God the Father is when you see Jesus." [01:15:03]
4. "You're going to hear me say that every single week. And so it's one of the core Christian doctrines, though, of our faith. If you are Orthodox and you really believe in what the Bible teaches and what the church history has shown, which was sealed in the Council of Nicene in 325 A.D., this was settled for us. That the Trinity, the Father, the Son, and the Spirit are all God, but all yet three persons in one. All right. We can't comprehend that. There's no example I can give you. All right. But there are some distortions of that out there. Some people believe that Jesus is an offspring. We get confused because we call him the Son of God. Today I don't want you to get confused by that. Son of God means divine. Son of man, he's also known as, means human. In Christ you have the God-man. All right. So as we look at this, he is fully, and by the way, that's called the hypostatic union, if you need to look that up in theological terms. And what that is is God's status of divinity is in Christ, but also his humanity. He is distinct in that. All right. We're going to talk a little bit about that today. But God the Father and God the Son and God the Spirit are all three the full essence. It's called homoousius, the full essence of God." [55:31]
5. "And he brings the tithe. Genesis 14. Hebrews chapter 6. Verse 7 writes about this. Genesis 14. Hebrews chapter 7. Why do I think this is significant? To me there is debate over who he is. This man was. But do you worship man? No. God never. Do you worship an angel? No. You're not to worship angels? That's why listen. I know people mean this well. I'm going to chase a rabbit here. You know when we say somebody dies and say heaven got another angel. That's actually not true you all. Heaven got another saint. Amen. Okay. So I know some people say that in good meaning. But just know that angels, we're not angels. Right? We don't worship angels. We worship God. Amen. So he's worshiping him. He's bringing the tithe. Who's worthy of the tithe? God alone. God alone. So when we're in here this is God." [01:04:59]
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