This was the second week of our series called, "4 Significant Christian Practice". Today, we turned our attention to baptism.
Identifying marks are important to us. They remind us of who we are, or at least who we want people to believe we are. But the marks do not make us who we are.
What does this have to do with baptism? Simple. Baptism is the identifying mark of the disciple of Jesus Christ. It’s our logo…our family crest…our way of recognizing that a person has said yes to the promises of God. But why baptism?
One reason is that Jesus was baptized (Matthew 3:13-17). Lots of people were being baptized by John that day. But Jesus' baptism wasn't like the others. His obviously wasn't about repentance; it was about His identity. When we are baptized, we are following Jesus' example. We are going public with the truth that we are disciples of Jesus Christ. But, baptism is more than just following Jesus’ example, it’s also a matter of obedience.
Jesus ordained baptism (Matthew 28:18-20). Jesus' instructions are crystal clear. When people come to faith, He wants us to use baptism as a public identifying mark. Jesus’ expectation is that every disciple will be baptized. And, ever since then, the Church has been using baptism as the identifying mark of the disciple of Jesus Christ. How do we know that?
Paul practiced baptism (Acts 19:4-5). Everybody who comes to faith in Jesus is baptized. It’s the identifying mark of the disciple of Jesus Christ.
So, if you are a disciple of Jesus Christ, and haven't been baptized, quit waiting! And next time you are present for a baptism, enjoy the party!
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