WE ARE NOT ALONE
Daphne Powell
Today's Scripture: “Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 3:21, ESV
Theme: Baptism doesn’t take away your sins. It identifies you as already saved and belonging to Jesus.
WHAT DOES BAPTISM SYMBOLIZE?
Baptism is a public declaration that Jesus died for our sins, buried, and rose again. When we step into the baptismal waters, we identify ourselves as His followers, who believe in His death and Resurrection. So, when we enter the water and rise, we have been cleansed, because we believe in His saving work on the cross. We know by faith that our sins are forgiven.
WHY WAS JESUS BAPTIZED?
At the start of His ministry, Jesus went to John at the Jordan River and presented Himself to be baptized. John was taken aback. “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:14b-15a).
Did He really need to do this? Jesus' baptism was a way to fulfill all righteousness, confirming His identity as the Messiah and aligning with God's plan.
WE ARE NOT ALONE
Jesus said, “for US to fulfill all righteousness.” He is showing His followers--by example-- that letting others know of your faith through baptism is righteous. It is obedience, and it is the next step for new believers.
By attending church, we participate in community with other believers. When we step into the water and come out of the water anew, we join a family of believers. We are letting our family and friends know who our Father is. We are saying to the world that I believe in the Trinity, that I know that the way to Heaven is through the son Jesus Christ. This is the way the church throughout the centuries has added new members.
Do we have to be baptized? No, baptism is not salvation. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He walked this earth sinless and died on the cross for our sins. He is our example of how we should strive to live, and our lives should be walking testimonies of our faith. So, yes. His children should be bold in their walk, obedient to follow His example, and be a witness and encouragement to not only non-believers but those who believe but have yet to have live their faith out loud to others.
Make It Personal: I remember writing the words of my testimony to be said when I went for my Baptism. It shared my life before Jesus, and my new life after accepting Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. But what I also remember is the excitement to share this moment and public declaration of faith with my family, friends and church. Can you recall this time? If you are a believer and have not taken this step, ask God to make His will clear to you and give you courage to step out.
Pray: Dear Lord, I pray that my Baptism shows that I am a Jesus follower and serves as a testimony. God, transform our hearts, minds, and actions as we reflect on our baptisms. Amen
Read: Matthew 3:11, 14-15, John 3:5, Galatians 3:27, Matthew 28:19, John 14:6
Weekly Memory Verse: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19, ESV