Scripture References: Acts 2:38-41, Acts 8:36-39, Acts 9:18, Acts 10:47-48, Acts 16:31-33, Matthew 28:19, Romans 6:3-4, 1 Corinthians 12:13
Intro:
- The familiarity of church practices can obscure their significance.
- Baptism: often seen as strange, but essential to the Christian faith.
- Acts shows baptism as a frequent response to preaching.
Key Points:
- Baptism in Acts:
- Acts 2: Peter's call to repent and be baptized.
- Acts 8, 9, 10, 16: Consistent pattern of baptism following conversion.
- What is Baptism?
- Not "the water that divides," but "the water that unites."
- Unites us with Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4).
- Unites us with the church, the family of God (1 Corinthians 12:13).
- Radiant Church's Beliefs:
- Baptism is a choice, a conscious decision.
- Public confession of Jesus as Lord and Savior.
- Submersion in water symbolizes purification and new life.
- An outward sign of inward faith.
- Obedience to Jesus' command (Matthew 28:19).
- Baptism is a proclamation of the gospel.
- Baptism as a Sacrament:
- A sacred moment to experience and know God.
- Physical act with spiritual significance.
- A longing for belonging is met in God's family.
- Baptism is not only for church leaders, it is for every believer.
- A Public Declaration:
- Not a private matter, but a community event.
- Signifies joining Jesus and His church.
- Baptism is a display of our faith.
Call to Action:
- Consider baptism as a public declaration of faith.
- Sign up for baptism on Easter.
- Address questions or concerns about baptism.
- Embrace baptism as a sacred moment of encountering God.
- Remember communion as a sacred moment.
- Live a public and proud life of faith.
Conclusion:
- Baptism is more than a ritual; it's a powerful symbol and command.
- It unites us with Christ and His family, proclaiming the gospel.
- We are called to active participation in God's family.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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