Have you ever been baptized?
Perhaps you’ve never given it much thought. I must tell you that one of my greatest joys as a pastor is to baptize believers. Not only do I find it thrilling but I also consider it an honor and a privilege.
Recently I made a decision to move the baptisms at our church to Sunday mornings. Now, they are part of our morning worship services. The response to this has been very positive. But you may be wondering why I feel so passionate about baptism. For that matter, if you haven’t been baptized, you may be wondering what the big deal is surrounding it. Well, I’ve decided to take the liberty to give you a crash course on baptism. Call it baptism 101, abbreviated.
The first most important lesson is baptism does not save. Baptism doesn’t make you a believer — it is a testimony to the fact that you are already a believer. Again, baptism does not “save” you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring —it’s the outward symbol of the commitment you’ve already made in your heart.
So, what’s the significance of baptism? The scriptures tell us that…
Perhaps you’ve never given it much thought. I must tell you that one of my greatest joys as a pastor is to baptize believers. Not only do I find it thrilling but I also consider it an honor and a privilege.
Recently I made a decision to move the baptisms at our church to Sunday mornings. Now, they are part of our morning worship services. The response to this has been very positive. But you may be wondering why I feel so passionate about baptism. For that matter, if you haven’t been baptized, you may be wondering what the big deal is surrounding it. Well, I’ve decided to take the liberty to give you a crash course on baptism. Call it baptism 101, abbreviated.
The first most important lesson is baptism does not save. Baptism doesn’t make you a believer — it is a testimony to the fact that you are already a believer. Again, baptism does not “save” you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring —it’s the outward symbol of the commitment you’ve already made in your heart.
So, what’s the significance of baptism? The scriptures tell us that…
…It Illustrates Christ’s Burial and Resurrection in the life of a committed Christian.
Colossians 2:12 (NLT) 12 For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead.
…It Illustrates Your New Life As A Christian.
Romans 6:4 (NLT) 4 For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.
Let me sum it up this way. Baptism is an expression. It is a celebration of your new life in Christ. It is also a chance for your brothers and sisters in Christ to celebrate with you, as you honor your commitment to a new life in Christ. Baptism is not the act of salvation, but it is an expression of your faith. It is an opportunity for you to express publicly what you have already confessed privately.
Therefore, believers ought to get baptized…
…In Order To Follow the Example Set by Christ.
Mark 1:9 (NLT) 9 One day Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and John baptized him in the Jordan River.
…In Order To Follow the Commandment of Christ.
Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT) 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
…In Order To Follow the Example of Obedience to Christ, as Practiced by 1st Century Christians.
Acts 18:8 (NLT) 8 ...Many others in Corinth also heard Paul, became believers, and were baptized.
The Bible teaches us that Christ is the way, the truth and the life; and walking with God means living out that truth in your personal life, daily. Your baptism is simply an acknowledgement that the desire of your heart is to walk with God faithfully and live for Him passionately. Placing your faith in Christ is the launching point for your spiritual journey. Baptism is a public acknowledgement that your journey is already under way.
You may also find it interesting to know that Jesus isn’t simply interested in guaranteeing you a spot in heaven. He wants you to fulfill the purpose for which you were created. You were created in his image in order to give him the highest praise. Even more, He is interested in a personal relationship with you. In fact, He wants to be your friend.
“For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.” Romans 5:10-11 (NLT)
So, if you are already on that spiritual journey and, in light of what you’ve read, if you want to be baptized, I’d be thrilled to do the honors.
Baptism 101,...abbreviated. From the heart and mind of Victor
