Pastor Jon reminded us that while baptism does not save us, the ordinance is not optional for the follower of Christ. Baptism symbolically represents the believer's identity with Jesus' death and resurrection.
MY STORY
Of all the baptism testimonies you've seen on the big screen at Crossroads, which one made a significant impact on you? Tell us why.
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus. And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, "See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?" And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. (Acts 8:35-38)
What were some the Eunuch's questions about the biblical passage he was reading?
What can we learn from Philip's example when it comes to engaging non-Christians about spiritual matters, especially the Gospel?
What's significant about the Eunuch's timing when it comes to his request to be baptized?
What does God want us to hear? Based on the passages above, what are the factual "takeaways" that are meaningful to you?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
What are some questions with which many non-Christians wrestle when it comes to simply surrendering to God's grace, offered to them in the Gospel?
As mature believers, how can we prepare ourselves to answer the challenging questions of non-Christians?
What are a few of the common excuses that some believers give about putting off baptism?
Why do many of these reasons lack legitimacy?
What does God want us to do? Flowing out of our reading and interpretation, what action does this passage or the Spirit's leading, nudging us toward?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
If you are a believer, prepare your mind and heart to field the challenging questions of non-Christians.
[We keep telling them, from the pulpit and other settings, that their questions are always welcome, no matter how complex or perplexing they might be].
If you are a believer who has been baptized, ready yourself to start baptizing others.
If you are a believer who has not been baptized, consider letting go of your excuses and getting baptized on Easter.
What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step is the Holy Spirit is calling you toward?
Message Notes
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