Why is Baptism a Discipleship Issue?

DESCRIPTION

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Chris McGowan discuss baptism as worship and how it serves as an “ebenezer” for believers to grow in their devotion to God. In the Old Testament, we read of prophets and leaders setting up stone monuments to remind them of God’s help and deliverance. Baptism, likewise, is a powerful, public declaration of what Christ has done for us in rescuing us from sin and death and uniting us with himself. Why be baptized?

  • For Christ - Jesus was baptized, and we demonstrate our obedience to him and identify with him when we humble ourselves publicly to follow him.
  • For ourselves - Baptism is an ebenezer, reminding us that we no longer live for ourselves, but for Christ. We can trust him for cleansing, healing, and new life. Just as Christ was resurrected, so will we be.
  • For others - Christianity is communal. When we are baptized in front of witnesses, we acknowledge our need for others and invite them into our spiritual growth. The church is the vehicle through which Christ carries out his mission.

Baptism is a physical walking out of the spiritual reality taking place in our bodies and souls. Our allegiance is no longer to this world but to Christ our King.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

  • Why was Christ baptized, and in light of this, why is baptism essential for his followers?
  • How does baptism fuel our devotion to God?
  • What barriers are keeping you from being baptized?

SCRIPTURES

Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented. 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 3:13-17

We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. Romans 6:4

Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” 1 Samuel 7:12

Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17

RESOURCES

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