October 25, 2007

 

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

 

--Matthew 28:19

 

Baptism should be important to followers of the Lord Jesus Christ because it was important to Him, plain and simple!

 

Not only was Jesus baptized at the outset of His ministry, He concluded His ministry with baptism. So don’t you think we should make it a priority too? I think so!

 

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, and you have never been baptized, then I want to challenge you today to do so. Let me share with you why…

 

First, baptism is a sign of your commitment to Jesus Christ. If you are truly committed to Jesus, then you need to make a public statement of that commitment, much like a wedding ring is a public expression of the commitment of a husband or wife.

 

Second, baptism is a symbol of your salvation. You need to publicly symbolize the sacrifice of Christ on your behalf and your submission to Him in your life.

 

Third, baptism is a sign of obedience. While there are many things you and I cannot do like Jesus Christ did, baptism is one thing that we can do exactly like He did! And when you are baptized, you are publicly declaring your obedience to Him.

 

Finally, baptism is a statement of your faith. When you’re baptized, you’re declaring to the world that you believe and belong to Jesus Christ. You are saying to everyone that you love Christ and want to follow Him with your whole heart.

 

Now, understand that being baptized doesn’t save you. But I would encourage you today…if you’re a believer and you’ve never been baptized…to prayerfully consider following Christ in this step of obedience. Through it, you will give a beautiful testimony of your faith in Him.

 

Jesus made baptism a priority…and so should We!