January 7, 2018 Sunday

“And so John came, baptising in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptised by him in the Jordan River. John wore clothing made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt round his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. And this was his message: "After me will come one more powerful than I, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I baptise you with water, but he will baptise you with the Holy Spirit." At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptised by John in the Jordan. As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased."” (Mark 1:4-11 NIV)

            In my time in the pastoral ministry it surprised me how many people weren’t sure if they were baptized or what it meant to be baptized.  Some wanted to be baptized again because they didn’t feel like their baptism was real.

            We understand so little about baptism, even many of the pastors I have met.  Here is a list of things we should know about baptism:

            God is the one who truly baptizes

            As an act of God the method is not as important

            Water symbolizing cleansing through Jesus and receiving the Holy Spirit

            Baptism brings about a change of life (John) and a calling (Jesus)

            As an act of God baptism should only happen once for a person

            Baptism is an admission of our sin and that we need Jesus

While some will not agree with this the importance of baptism is our relationship with God and with the Church.  We are baptized into the Church and not a denomination or a congregation.

            If have you not received baptism ask yourself if you need Jesus and want Him to cleanse you and guide your life through the Holy Spirit?

            If you have been baptized are you being guided by the Holy Spirit and living out God’s call for you?