Water baptism is a Christian tradition that dates all the way back to the time of Christ and the early Christian church. But what is it all about?
Talking Points:
- #1 Water baptism is God’s idea. Baptism might seem strange to people new to the faith, but it was God’s idea in the first place. Jesus sent out his first disciples and commanded them invite people to follow him. Anyone that accepted the invitation was to be baptized. Matthew 28:19
- #2 Water baptism doesn’t save anyone. Though baptism is clearly commanded in the Bible, it’s also clear that it is not a ritual that saves a person. We start a relationship with God by trusting Jesus, and no good work on our part can add to the completed work of Jesus through his cross and resurrection. Ephesians 2:8-9
- #3 Water baptism is an act of practical obedience. Water baptism is one of the first things we can do practically in our lives to show our desire to live to honor God.
- #4 Water baptism identifies us with Christ and his church. Water baptism is also an act of identification. Through it we are identifying with the death and resurrection of Christ. We are also identifying with his people, the church. Romans 6:3
- #5 Water baptism is a symbol of our new life. Water baptism is symbolic of the Christian life. It symbolizes death to our old way of living and resurrection to a new way of living. Romans 6:4
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- If you have been baptized, what was the experience like for you? If you are planning to get baptized, what is your motivation?
- Read Ephesians 2:8-9 and Matthew 28:19. Baptism is a simple matter of obedience. Make a list of some of the other things Christ calls us to do as Christians. Which ones are especially difficult for you? Where does baptism rank, and why?
- Read Romans 6:3-4. How are we identifying with Christ when we get baptized?
- Baptism is symbolic, much like a wedding ring. Explain.
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
