Why should we be baptized?
June 23, 2019 Sermon Preview
Are you smarter than a third grader?
Prove it.
Answer this: why should we be baptized?
Baptism has been a critical piece of the Christian faith since the beginning of the church. It is so important that people have been killed for their understanding of the ritual. It is one of two sacraments in our denomination. This Sunday’s sermon will look at the reasons behind baptism as well the many ways that the Bible uses water to symbolize our relationship with God.
Scripture
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.'”
–Matthew 3:16-17 (NRSV)
Sweet Truth #9
Baptism means to be “immersed” (dunked) in water as a special symbol that you belong to God and Jesus Christ.
It symbolizes:
- Cleansing from sin
- Being born again (or born “anew”) into new life with God
- Refreshment and nourishment (as water quenches our thirst)
- The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ
Have you ever seen a grown up wearing a wedding ring? Baptism is very much like your wedding ring with God and Jesus. It means that you believe in Christ, and you pledge to love him and be loyal to him, now and always!
From 16 Sweet Truths by Rev. David Nash
Pastor, First Christian Church (DOC), Sikeston, Missouri
Used with permission.
