Embracing New Life Through the Act of Baptism
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone! It's wonderful to see so many of our youth here today. My name is Stephen, and I'm excited to talk to you about baptism. Baptism is a significant act in the Christian faith, symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The word "baptism" comes from the Greek word "baptizmos," which means to immerse or dip underwater. This act is not just a ritual but a profound declaration of faith and commitment to Jesus.
I shared a personal story about my own journey to baptism, which began when I was three years old. My father promised to baptize me in the Jordan River, and after many years of anticipation, it finally happened when I was seventeen. This experience was a powerful reminder of the importance and significance of baptism.
Baptism illustrates several key aspects of our faith. First, it symbolizes Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. When we are baptized, we go down into the water, representing Jesus' burial, and come back up, symbolizing His resurrection. This act publicly declares that we have left our old life behind and are now living a new life in Christ.
Second, baptism demonstrates our new life as Christians. It signifies that we are no longer in charge of our lives but are submitting to God's will. This new life is marked by obedience to God's commands and a commitment to follow Jesus.
Third, baptism incorporates us into the body of Christ. When we are baptized, we receive the triune name of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—signifying our inclusion in God's family. This incorporation means that we are now part of a larger community of believers who support and encourage one another.
Finally, baptism is a public declaration of our faith. It shows the world that we are followers of Jesus and are committed to living according to His teachings. This public act removes any doubt about our faith and serves as a powerful testimony to others.
Today, we have the privilege of witnessing a baptism, and I encourage anyone who has not yet been baptized to consider taking this important step. Whether you were baptized long ago and want to renew your commitment or are considering baptism for the first time, know that this act is a profound declaration of your faith and commitment to Jesus.
### Key Takeaways
1. Baptism as a Symbol of Christ's Death and Resurrection: Baptism illustrates the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When we are baptized, we go down into the water, symbolizing Jesus' burial, and come back up, representing His resurrection. This act publicly declares that we have left our old life behind and are now living a new life in Christ. [20:02]
2. New Life in Christ: Baptism signifies our new life as Christians. It marks the end of our old life and the beginning of a new one, characterized by obedience to God's will. This transformation is a powerful testimony to others, showing that we are no longer in charge of our lives but are submitting to God's guidance. [22:02]
3. Incorporation into the Body of Christ: Through baptism, we are incorporated into the body of Christ and receive the triune name of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This act signifies our inclusion in God's family and our connection to a larger community of believers who support and encourage one another. [23:58]
4. Public Declaration of Faith: Baptism is a public declaration of our faith in Jesus Christ. It shows the world that we are committed to following Jesus and living according to His teachings. This public act removes any doubt about our faith and serves as a powerful testimony to others. [41:48]
5. Obedience to Jesus' Command: Jesus commands us to be baptized, and this act of obedience is a crucial step in our faith journey. By following Jesus' example and command, we demonstrate our commitment to Him and our willingness to live according to His teachings. [40:14]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[09:14] - Scuba Diving Adventure
[10:41] - What is Baptism?
[12:05] - Personal Baptism Story
[15:05] - Baptism in the Jordan River
[18:02] - Significance of Baptism
[20:02] - Baptism Illustrates Christ's Death and Resurrection
[22:02] - New Life in Christ
[23:58] - Incorporation into the Body of Christ
[25:41] - Identifying God's Voice
[27:19] - Co-Teaching with Pastor Tom
[38:35] - Following Jesus' Example
[40:14] - Obedience to Jesus' Command
[41:48] - Public Declaration of Faith
[43:38] - No Shame in Declaring Faith
[45:13] - Invitation to Baptism
[47:01] - Hayden's Testimony
[50:27] - Baptism Ceremony
[52:11] - Encouragement to Youth
[53:34] - Call to Prayer and Commitment
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Significance of Baptism
#### Bible Reading
1. Romans 6:4 - "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."
2. 2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
3. Matthew 28:19-20 - "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."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Romans 6:4 say about the symbolism of baptism in relation to Jesus' death and resurrection?
2. According to 2 Corinthians 5:17, what transformation occurs when someone is in Christ?
3. In Matthew 28:19-20, what command does Jesus give to His disciples regarding baptism?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the act of baptism illustrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ? (Refer to [20:02])
2. What does it mean to live a "new life" in Christ as described in Romans 6:4 and 2 Corinthians 5:17? How does baptism signify this new life? (Refer to [22:02])
3. Why is it significant that baptism incorporates us into the body of Christ and the triune name of God? (Refer to [23:58])
4. How does making a public declaration of faith through baptism serve as a testimony to others? (Refer to [41:48])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own baptism experience or your thoughts about being baptized. How did or would this act symbolize leaving your old life behind and starting a new life in Christ? (Refer to [20:02])
2. Baptism is a public declaration of faith. How can you use your baptism as a testimony to share your faith with others? (Refer to [41:48])
3. In what ways can you demonstrate your new life in Christ through your daily actions and decisions? (Refer to [22:02])
4. How can being part of the body of Christ through baptism help you feel more connected to the church community? What steps can you take to strengthen these connections? (Refer to [23:58])
5. Jesus commands us to be baptized. How does this command influence your understanding of obedience in your faith journey? (Refer to [40:14])
6. If you have not been baptized, what are the barriers or hesitations you face? How can you address these concerns and take the step towards baptism? (Refer to [45:13])
7. Think about someone in your life who might be considering baptism. How can you support and encourage them in their faith journey? (Refer to [47:01])
Devotional
Day 1: Baptism as a Symbol of Christ's Death and Resurrection
Baptism is a profound act that symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When a person is baptized, they are immersed in water, representing Jesus' burial, and then raised out of the water, symbolizing His resurrection. This act is a public declaration that the individual has left their old life behind and is now living a new life in Christ. It is a powerful testimony of transformation and renewal, showing that the person has been spiritually reborn and is committed to following Jesus.
This symbolic act is not just a ritual but a significant step in one's faith journey. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifice Jesus made and the new life He offers to those who believe in Him. By participating in baptism, believers publicly identify with Jesus' death and resurrection, proclaiming their faith and commitment to live according to His teachings. [20:02]
Romans 6:3-4 (ESV): "Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 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 understanding baptism as a symbol of Christ's death and resurrection impact your view of your own baptism or your decision to be baptized?
Day 2: New Life in Christ
Baptism signifies the beginning of a new life in Christ. It marks the end of an old way of living and the start of a life characterized by obedience to God's will. This transformation is a powerful testimony to others, demonstrating that the individual is no longer in charge of their life but is submitting to God's guidance. The act of baptism is a declaration that the person is now living under the lordship of Jesus, committed to following His teachings and commands.
This new life is not just about a change in behavior but a complete transformation of the heart and mind. It involves a daily commitment to seek God's will and to live in a way that honors Him. Baptism is a public acknowledgment of this commitment, showing the world that the individual is dedicated to living a life that reflects the love and grace of Jesus. [22:02]
2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
Reflection: In what ways can you demonstrate your new life in Christ through your daily actions and decisions?
Day 3: Incorporation into the Body of Christ
Through baptism, believers are incorporated into the body of Christ and receive the triune name of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This act signifies their inclusion in God's family and their connection to a larger community of believers. Being part of the body of Christ means that believers are not alone in their faith journey; they are supported and encouraged by a community of fellow Christians who share the same commitment to follow Jesus.
This incorporation into the body of Christ is a vital aspect of the Christian faith. It emphasizes the importance of community and the role of the church in nurturing and supporting believers. Baptism is a reminder that faith is not just a personal journey but a communal one, where believers are called to support and uplift one another in their walk with Christ. [23:58]
1 Corinthians 12:13 (ESV): "For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit."
Reflection: How can you actively participate in and contribute to your local church community as a member of the body of Christ?
Day 4: Public Declaration of Faith
Baptism is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. It shows the world that the individual is committed to following Jesus and living according to His teachings. This public act removes any doubt about the person's faith and serves as a powerful testimony to others. By being baptized, believers openly proclaim their allegiance to Jesus and their desire to live a life that reflects His love and grace.
This public declaration is an important aspect of the Christian faith. It is a bold statement that the individual is not ashamed of their faith and is willing to stand up for what they believe in. Baptism serves as a witness to others, encouraging them to consider their own faith journey and the significance of following Jesus. [41:48]
Matthew 10:32-33 (ESV): "So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven."
Reflection: How can you boldly and publicly declare your faith in Jesus in your daily life?
Day 5: Obedience to Jesus' Command
Jesus commands His followers to be baptized, and this act of obedience is a crucial step in the faith journey. By following Jesus' example and command, believers demonstrate their commitment to Him and their willingness to live according to His teachings. Baptism is not just a symbolic act but an act of obedience that reflects the believer's desire to follow Jesus in every aspect of their life.
Obedience to Jesus' command to be baptized is a significant step in the Christian faith. It shows that the individual is serious about their commitment to Jesus and is willing to take the necessary steps to follow Him. This act of obedience is a powerful testimony to others, showing that the believer is dedicated to living a life that honors and glorifies God. [40:14]
John 14:15 (ESV): "If you love me, you will keep my commandments."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to demonstrate your obedience to Jesus' commands in your daily life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Every time I come up here, that you guys are a little bit closer or a lot a bit closer to Jesus than when you walked in through the door, because that's what it's all about." [09:14] (8 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Baptism illustrates Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. You know, it's this thing, it's this symbol. We go down in the water, Christ, Jesus, he went into the tomb, right? But he didn't stay there. Sunday, stone was rolled away, he came out. Jesus died, he was buried, and then he rose again." [20:02] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Baptism declares that you are a follower of Jesus Christ. It is a public confession of your faith in and commitment to Jesus Christ. Next step after salvation, through repentance and faith, and is an important foundation for our Christian life." [41:48] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I don't want to give Jesus any reason to be ashamed of me, right? He says it's either all or nothing. There's no 95%. Okay, I'm going to give you 90. I'm going to do all the stuff that you say, but no one's really going to know. I'm not going to talk about it. I'm just going to keep it to myself." [45:13] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We get to be baptized, right? How cool is that? There's a big difference in our mentality when we get to do something versus we have to do something." [38:35] (8 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Baptism is an event, it's a specific thing that happens publicly that we can point to and say, hey, we did this. This is what's illustrating. I was stuck in my sin, I was stuck in my old ways, not being able to get out of it. But you see, because of what Jesus did, I now have opportunity to be right with God the Father." [20:02] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "It demonstrates my incorporation into the body of Christ. In baptism, the believer has the triune name of the triune God placed upon them, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You know, when we say that, we say we baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit." [23:58] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We are all baptized by one spirit into one body. We are now connected. When we're baptized, we now have a thing that we go, hey, this connects us together. You know, the early church, they were baptized because they're saying, we are building this community, and we're baptizing one another, and we're part of this thing." [25:41] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Baptism is an illustrative of this new life, that something is different about me. No longer am I saying, I'm in charge, I'm going to make the decisions. I'm saying, hey, no, I've joined the team, I'm part of this, and I'm submitting to what God has for me. I'm going to be obedient to what God is telling me to do." [22:02] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I don't want to give Jesus any reason to be ashamed of me when I get to heaven. I don't want to give him any reason. What does he say? He goes, for whoever is ashamed of me in my words, of him will the son of man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the father and of the holy angels." [43:38] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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