Pastor Chris reminded us about the significance and symbolism of baptism, which was one of Jesus’ last commands to us before he ascended into heaven.
MY STORY Besides your own, describe the most meaningful baptism you ever witnessed.
What made that person’s testimony special?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
"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." Romans 6:3-4
Why did Paul seemed surprised that his readers didn’t know about the symbolism behind baptism?
According to Paul, what biblical truths does baptism represent?
What does it mean, practically speaking, to “walk in the newness of life”?
What does continuing to walk in the oldness of life look like?
What does God want us to hear? Based on the passage and the questions above, what “takeaways” do you think God has revealed to you?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
Respond to this quote by Pastor James, “While the act of baptism does not save us, skipping it is not an option for the follower of Christ.”
What analogies to this challenging truth did Pastor Chris make in this message on Sunday?
What are some common reasons that people put off baptism after they’ve experienced saving faith?
Why are none of these legitimate excuses?
What does God want us to do? Flowing out of our reading and interpretation, what action does this passage or the Spirit’s leading, call us to?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
Pastor Chris said, “Jesus makes it very clear. Yes, we are saved by grace through faith, but then he immediately tells us to go and be baptized. You see, faith in Jesus for salvation and baptism are so closely connected. It's like getting married and putting a ring on your spouse's finger.”
How are baptisms and wedding ceremonies similar as public expressions of a significant relationship?
If you’d like to learn more about baptism, sign up for the baptism workshop coming up on Sunday, March 23.
If you’ve experienced saving faith, and have not been baptized yet, sign up to be baptized – perhaps during one of our Easter Services on April 19 or April 20.
If you have been baptized, be ready and willing to baptize a fellow believer.
What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step God is calling you, personally, toward?
Message Notes
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