Re:Verse passage – Mark 1:4-5, 9-11; Acts 8:9-13, 34-39 (day seven)
John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Mark 1:4
We as a church, and historically as Baptists, hold to the belief that believer’s baptism by immersion is an important step of obedience in the early moments of a new believer. However, the water is not what saves you. Salvation happens inside of the heart of the new believer as they recognize that Jesus is Lord. If we want to get technical here, Salvation is absolutely nothing of our own doing, but truly a gift from God in response to our faith:
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9
With that said, Baptism is the outward expression of this inward grace. It is symbolic of us being buried with Christ in His death and raised to walk in new life (Romans 6:4). Not only is it commanded and exampled by Christ, but there is something solidifying in telling the world that you are unashamed of Him:
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. Romans 1:16
It is also an opportunity for the Body of Christ to celebrate with you and to promise to walk along side you. Baptism is not just about the person being immersed, it is about all of us being united together in His Church. So help us fill our baptistries with people and praises as we all celebrate this Gift that has been given to us all!
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