Since Jesus is the way... we can follow Him. Also, the very first direction that Jesus wants us to follow Him is the way down and the way we follow Jesus down is through baptism. Baptism is the very first thing Jesus wants new disciples to do. It is our first step of obedience and is the first public testimony we will ever give.
The Way Down
1. Baptism openly IDENTIFIES us as followers of Jesus. (Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)
- In the Bible, baptism is never equated with faith or salvation… but every time it is associated with it.
2. Baptism openly OBEYS the command of Jesus.
- Notice Jesus' AUTHORITY
- Notice Jesus's TIME FRAME
- Disclaimer: For a disciple of Christ to know His will about baptism and then willingly refuse it… is to intentionally disobey Christ and sin against God.
3. Baptism openly EXPRESSES your faith in many truths.
- The Trinity
- Your sins have been washed away
- You are truly united with Christ
- You have new life in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Who is baptism for?
- Don’t get baptized unless you are confident you have given (or want to give) your life to Jesus.
- Baptism is for new believers.
- Baptism is for those who need assurance.
- Maybe you were baptized but it didn’t mean anything to you?
- Baptism is for you!
Acts 22:16 (NIV) “And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized…”
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