Topics – Baptism, Discipleship, Covenant
Jesus orders us to be baptized for the forgiveness of sins. Baptism is the betrothal (similar to “engagement”) ceremony in our relationship to Christ.
Focus Scripture – Matthew 28:19-20HIDESHOW
19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in [a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Extended SummaryHIDESHOW
The Great Commission states that we are to make disciples and baptism them. This is intended to be the first act of discipleship for new Christians. So it is clear that we are supposed to be baptized as Christians. But there is a lot of confusion about what baptism is and is not.
1. Baptism is not an “optional symbolic gesture”. Rather, it is the ceremony that initiates you into the new covenant and the community of faith. This is why it is ordered, not merely recommended, by Jesus.
2. Baptism is not “magic”. Many people hold the view that baptism literally washes away sin and saves you in a very direct way. But God is not a god of technicalities. Baptism is commanded, but it is not salvation itself. We know that the thief on the cross was not baptized and yet Jesus assured him that he would be saved. Some people have repeated baptism in the hopes of washing away sins that have occurred since the last time they were baptized. It is our faith and our relationship with God that saves us, not the act of baptism. The Bible instructs us to be baptized only once (Eph. 4:4-6).
1. Baptism is not an “optional symbolic gesture”. Rather, it is the ceremony that initiates you into the new covenant and the community of faith. This is why it is ordered, not merely recommended, by Jesus.
2. Baptism is not “magic”. Many people hold the view that baptism literally washes away sin and saves you in a very direct way. But God is not a god of technicalities. Baptism is commanded, but it is not salvation itself. We know that the thief on the cross was not baptized and yet Jesus assured him that he would be saved. Some people have repeated baptism in the hopes of washing away sins that have occurred since the last time they were baptized. It is our faith and our relationship with God that saves us, not the act of baptism. The Bible instructs us to be baptized only once (Eph. 4:4-6).
Practical Applications (homework)HIDESHOW
There are a lot of viewpoints in the Christian faith about baptism! Almost all churches believe it is important and in some way participate in this tradition, following the example of the early church. In this sermon Greg unpacked the reasons that our church feels strongly about it, and what we believe it means. Here are some homework assignments for this week:
- Nearly all Christians see baptism as something that should be done in the midst of a community of believers. So whether or not you’re planning to be baptized at the all-church event this summer, you can still participate! An “easy” homework assignment is to make plans to attend the church baptism on August 1 at 2:00 p.m.
- If you haven’t been baptized as an adult, do some praying about it. Also, talk to 3-4 people about their baptism experience and consider participating in the church baptism coming up in a few weeks.
- If you’ve already been baptized as an adult, use this opportunity to take stock of your current relationship with Christ. Many of us are excited and passionate when we first become Christians, and over time that enthusiasm fades. Has your energy for the Kingdom died off at all? In what ways? Were there things you wanted to change about your life when you first started following Christ that never happened? What are some specific ways you’d like to improve your relationship with Jesus? Get together with someone you’re close to (could be a spouse, friend or small group) and discuss these questions together.
Reflection QuestionsHIDESHOW
- Read each of the supporting texts. What stood out to you most from this message and the supporting texts?
- How is this message different or similar to the way baptism was taught in other churches you may have attended?
- Read Romans 6:1-11. How does this passage help us understand the meaning of baptism?
- Is there anyone in your group who has not been baptized and is ready to do that? If so, consider participating in the baptism ceremony coming up on Sunday August 1st.