Jon's Baptism Portal

WEEK 1- Baptism basics:

Introduction:

Read:

• Matthew 28:18-20.

• Colossians 2:11-12.

• Romans 6:3-4.

  
  

What is Baptism?

• A public declaration of our identification with Jesus.

• An outward symbol of the inward action (salvation).

• A personal identification with the death and resurrection of Jesus.

• It points to:

  • Our new life in Christ (Read Galatians 2:20).

  • Our commitment to follow Jesus daily and submit our lives to Him (Read Luke 9:23; Ephesians 4:22-24).

  • Our future resurrection (Read 1 Corinthians 15).

Who should be baptized?

• The Bible teaches that baptism is reserved only for those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (Read Mark 16:15-16, Acts 8:12).

• The Bible teaches that in order to be baptized, a person must first exercise faith in Jesus Christ, believing that He died for their sins, was buried and rose from the dead (Read Romans 10:9).

Why was Jesus baptized?

Jesus was baptized as an example of obedience to the Father (Read Mark 1:9-11). The Father confirmed His approval when He spoke at Jesus’ baptism (Read Matthew 3:17).

Does water baptism provide salvation?

No. Read Ephesians 2:8–9.

Why full immersion when baptizing?

• It is how Jesus was baptized (Read Matthew 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-11).

• It more closely symbolizes the work of Jesus in his death, burial, and resurrection (Read Colossians 2:11-12).

• The Greek word baptizo literally means to plunge, submerge or immerse.

  • GCF's Doctrinal Statement on baptism: Baptism is to be by immersion ... it is an ordinance to be observed by the Church in its present age. It is not, however, to be regarded as means for man’s salvation (Read Acts 2:41, 1 Cor. 11:23-26).

• A few examples of baptism by immersion in the Scriptures:

  • Read:

    • Matthew 3:16.

    • Mark 1:5, 10.

    • John 3:23.

    • Acts 8:38–39.

What if I was sprinkled or baptized as a baby or child?

• The Bible calls believers to get baptized by immersion as an act of obedience after you come to faith in Jesus.

WEEK 2- YOUR TESTIMONY:

Checklist:

• Write out your testimony (the story of how you came to faith in Jesus) and we'll go over it next Sunday. You will read your testimony publicly just prior to your baptism, so no need to memorize it.

• Bring a towel.

• Bring a change of clothing (including underwear!).

• Wear something you are ok being wet in.

• Once in the baptismal, you will fold your arms and lay back.

• I will say “based on your profession of faith in Jesus, I know baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”

• They I will completely immerse you into the water and lift you out.

• Then you are free to exit the baptismal and change so you can go back to your family and friends in the sanctuary.

WHAT'S NEXT?

• Discipleship is crucial for both individual spiritual growth and the natural growth of the Church. Discipleship is the process of becoming more like Jesus in our personal walk. However, Jesus followers are not meant to be lone wolves, we are meant to live in community. Thus, the crucial importance of discipleship.

• Discipleship is not just about knowledge of Scripture but relational modeling Jesus' teachings and way of life to one another. Discipleship strengthens one's personal relationship with Jesus and provides pathways to meaningful impact, and helps believers mature. In my opinion, this has largely been missing from the American Church for decades. We must get back to Biblical discipleship ASAP.

• Here's a more detailed look at the importance of Christian discipleship:

  • Spiritual Growth and Maturity: It's a lifelong process of growth and transformation, moving towards Christ-likeness. The process of mentoring and being mentored plays a HUGE part in this. For example, note the relationship between the Apostle Paul and Timothy (1 Timothy and 2 Timothy).

  • Strengthening the Church: Making disciples is a core aspect of the church's mission, spreading the gospel and training others to follow Jesus. How can we accomplish this without discipleship? We can't. Discipleship helps build a community of believers who support and encourage each other. It also equips individuals to share their faith and become active in the church's mission.

  • Personal Transformation: Discipleship fosters a deeper relationship with Jesus, leading to joy, satisfaction, and a desire to live for Him. It encourages humility and dependence on God's grace, rather than self-reliance. Discipleship helps individuals overcome sin and live a life of obedience to God's word.

  • Making an Impact: Discipleship empowers individuals to share their faith and impact the world around them. It shifts the focus from simply attracting converts to transforming lives through Christ. Discipleship provides a clear pathway for pastors and church leaders to lead and equip their congregations.

  • The Power of the Holy Spirit: Discipleship is empowered by the Holy Spirit, who guides, teaches, and strengthens believers in their journey. The Holy Spirit enables disciples to live a life of love, service, and witness for Christ.