Title: Baptism
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Romans 6:1–4
What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 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. (ESV)
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In his sermon, Jed Gillis delves into Romans 6:1-4 to unpack the profound meaning behind baptism. The passage raises a key question: Should we continue sinning so that grace may abound? Paul’s emphatic response is "By no means!" The essence of the message lies in understanding that as believers, we have died to sin through our union with Christ. Baptism symbolizes this union, signifying our death to sin and resurrection to a new life in Christ.
Gillis emphasizes that baptism represents being immersed in Jesus. This immersion denotes our complete identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too are called to walk in newness of life. This transformation isn’t achieved through legalistic rule-following or a lax attitude towards sin; instead, it stems from being united with Christ.
Drawing parallels between marriage and our relationship with Christ, Gillis illustrates how believers share in everything that belongs to Jesus. Our sins become His, and His righteousness becomes ours. This profound exchange exemplifies the depth of God’s grace and love for us. Baptism serves as a public declaration of this intimate union and commitment.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.
