Pastor Peter Mason - March 19, 2017
Following the example of Jesus
Is God calling you to follow the Lord Jesus in believers’ baptism?
What is baptism?
Baptism does not bring salvation
The Apostle Paul taught, “For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the Gospel” (1 Corinthians 1:17).
What is the Gospel?
Christ died for our sins and
He rose again on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16-17).
Therefore, since baptism is not part of the Gospel, it is not essential for salvation.
Baptism does symbolize identification with:
1.Christ (Matthew 28:19)
2.And His Church (Acts 2:41)
Therefore, baptism . . .
1. Shows others what Christ has done for us.
2. Is an outward expression of an inward change.
Who should be baptized?
Believers in the Lord Jesus
Acts 2:38-41;
Acts 8:12-13; and
Acts 18:8
Notice the pattern: “Believe and be baptized.”
How about infants?
In Acts 16:29-34, the historian, Luke, does not mention infants in this story, rather, “all who
heard the Gospel believed.”
The emphasis is on “soon”: As soon as a believer has an understanding of the meaning and
significance of believer’s baptism.
There is wisdom in waiting until children have both an understanding and maturity to be baptized.
Why should we be baptized?
Following Christ’s example (Matthew 3:13-17)
Following Christ’s command (Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38)
How should we be baptized?
The meaning of baptizo: Immerse
The setting of baptism: “went down into the water”
Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:16)
Eunich’s baptism (Acts 8:36)
The picture of baptism (Romans 6:1-4)
Buried with him in baptism
Raised to newness of life
The Next Step for Baptism on Palm Sunday
Contact the church: office@faithcrossroads.org or
call (518) 399-2220
Then, share your testimony with two elders
Questions in Preparation
Who do you believe Jesus is?
What did Jesus do for you when he died on the cross?
When did you come to know Christ in a personal way?
How is the Lord changing your life?
Why are you choosing to be baptized?