Have you ever wished you could just start all over? Are there some things about your past that you’d like to be done with? Done with forever? How can we start all over and forget the messes we sometimes make out of our lives. Is there really some way to start over again?
Well, the Bible not only shows us a way – it tells us that it is a most important dynamic in our Christian experience. Tonight we will talk about the vital subject of Christian Baptism. It's not surprising that many are asking about this important truth which is mentioned 80 times in the New Testament.
Now, there is no doubt that final or parting words are important. In my work I have had many occasions to leave my home or some other place where we have spent time. In most cases, I have had some final words of instruction to my wife or children and others who we love. Usually, I have to give some final words of instruction or encouragement in some matter.
As a pastor, I have drawn close to those who have been nearing death and I watched and listened to relatives draw close to hear the final utterances from the mouth of a loved one.
Final words are always important. Dying words are important. Farewells are important. Some of the very last words spoken by Jesus before He left this world have to do with our subject tonight.
Turn with me to the very last words recorded in the book of Matthew. Matthew 28:19,20 Jesus told His disciples "to go and preach the good news of salvation through His grace. He instructed His followers to teach the truths of His word and to baptize those who believed in Him "in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit."
There is no question that Jesus wanted to leave these instructions firmly planted in the minds of those who would seek to become a follower of Christ.
Now, there are many customs and Traditions concerning this Christian practice today. If we took a survey in the Christian world we would not doubt get many opinions on this subject. Some might say – it is not necessary to be saved. Another might say it's a must – but that a person need only be sprinkled on the head with water. Others might say that it would take a total immersion in the water to constitute a valid Christian Baptism.
I have heard of many different methods – some of them as bizarre as they are unscriptural. Recently saw on news in North Carolina, I believe – baptized with the Fire Dept. spraying hoses. Seemed more like a carnival than a real Biblical Baptism to me. Although this kind of incident trivializes the Bible truth nevertheless, nothing could be more important for us today.
Tonight Let's plunge into our study with this critical question: Just how important is it that someone be baptized? And how is this sacred rite is to be carried out.
One of the strongest – most positive statements of Jesus calls our attention to the importance of this subject. John 3:5 According to the words of Jesus to Nicodemus unless we are born of water and spirit we cannot be in the kingdom of God. Jesus tells us of 2 major requirements – must be born of water and the spirit.
Now what it mean to be born of the Spirit? Some think this means to be baptized in the spirit where people began to speak in tongues. We will talk about this in coming nights.
Tonight lets look at this in its immediate context. verse 3 makes this exceedingly plain. John 3:3 We must be "born again" – He is speaking of the spiritual change by which a man is converted by the grace of God through the working of the Holy Spirit in our life.
The Holy Spirit is the great agency in the conversion experience – that transformation of life which comes through a relationship with Jesus.
What does it mean then to be born of water? This is undoubtedly a reference to Baptism. Baptism is the outward, public expression of the inward change made by the power of the Holy Spirit Jesus states it even more emphatically in: Mark 16:16
On the basis of what Jesus has told us in these texts thus far – I would not hesitate to say that whoever has a chance to be baptized and refuses – Could be LOST!
Jesus made it quite clear that anything less than a complete transformation of the life by the power of the Holy Spirit and by water baptism was inadequate. Jesus states unequivocally "Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.
Now, I realize there was the thief on the cross – whom Jesus promised would be saved in heaven and obviously did not get baptized.
Well, if it is impossible – not required – God understands. But, if that thief could have come off the cross and given another chance to live – he would have been expected to do a lot of things.
For a person to use this incident as an excuse to not follow the example and admonition of Jesus is spiritually dangerous presumption. We cannot be presumptuous – play little games with God. And friends we must remember – God only requires or commands what is best for His people.
What then is the reason and meaning of Baptism anyway? It is only as we understand its meaning that the real significance emerges. Romans 6:3 Buried by baptism into Christ's death in order that we may also identify with Him in His resurrection.
Romans 6:5 Baptism is a symbolic act and a public profession of dying to the old life of sin – to live a new life of righteousness for God. Paul continues in: Romans 6:6,7 Bury the old man of sin in the watery grave in order to live a new life in Christ. Let's read verses 4 and 5 again.
Baptism is a symbol of our death to sin – burial of the old life of sin – and a resurrectionto a new life through Jesus Christ. Many other passages in Scripture strongly emphasize this very same spiritual dynamic. Colosians 2:12 – Galatians 3:27
There is no better way to do this than the way the Bible teaches us – to be baptized by being lowered gently underwater with our eyes closed - breath suspended. Then raised out of the water to live a new life for Christ through the power of His indwelling Spirit.
Now, there is one point that must be understood – if not truly converted baptism means absolutely nothing. Must desire to live for Jesus personally.
A question asked frequently – How many kinds or methods of baptisms are legitimate? Some pour water on heads, others sprinkle, etc. Is this right?
Ephesians 4:5 According to God's Word there is only one true kind of baptism. What is this one true biblical method? Well, if we follow Christ's example – can't fail. Surely His was done the right way. I'm thankful we have Christ's baptism recorded in: Mark 1:9,10 Notice it does not say "by" or "near" or "on the banks of" but "in the Jordan."
Verse 10 says "He came up out of the water." Matthew documents the same important facts in: Matthew 3:16 He went down into the water and came up out of the water when baptized by John in the Jordan River.
Now why do you suppose Jesus was baptized? Did He have sins to be cleansed? Mathew tells us that at first John refused to baptize Jesus. But notice what Jesus said to him. Matthew 3:15 Jesus shows us the importance of Baptism by being baptized himself. This is obviously why the disciples followed His example and baptized those who were converted to Jesus. And notice how they did this.
Acts 8:35-39 Here we see Philip miraculously transported to the side of a chariot carrying an Ethiopian man who is trying to understand the word of God. Philip tells him t hat this OT passage he has been reading refers to Jesus, verse 35.
This is what this entire book is all about. Both the Old and New Testaments are focused on Jesus Christ – the Savior who died on a lonely Roman Cross for the sins of a lost planet. But now notice – He must have talked about other truths related to Jesus because verses 36-38 tells us: Acts 8:36-38 The Bible makes it very clear doesn't it? They both went down into the water and he was baptized.Then verse 39 adds these words in support. Acts 8:39
So, we see that not only did they go down into the water but they are said to have "come up out of the water."This is the Biblical method of Baptism that is shown repeatedly throughout the New Testament.
Now, when you talk about baptism from a biblical perspective you must include the most famous of all Baptizers – John the Baptist as he is called was given this mission from God.
Let's see how this professional Baptizer did his divinely appointed task. John 3:23 Don't miss the historical facts here – they came to this place to be baptized "because there was much water there." If John had followed the modern custom of many churches he could have carried around bottles of water to pour or sprinkle. But rather obviously in order to do this correctly - he needed much water.
I recall a story: Indian chief – Missionary Priest left Bible – Came back and found the chief wanted to be baptized. So the priest went to get a cup of water. When he returned the Indian seemed disappointed and perplexed. "What's the matter" the priest asked. "Chief too big – Cup too small" – Chief have wrong book maybe?" No, he had the right book however the Biblical practice had long been replaced by tradition.
The word Baptize is from Greek "Baptizo" – Means to immerse – plunge under water. I want to show you the testimony of some of the great Christian leaders of the past. Martin Luther, Calvin, John Wesley. These men clearly understood what the Bible teaches. In fact ancient churches and other archeological evidence reveals much about the practice of Christianity.
It was not until 1311 at the Council of Revenna that the practice began to change. No study on this subject would be complete without addressing the question of Who is eligible for Baptism? What are the Bible requirements? Matthew 28:19,20
Jesus not only commands us to Baptize those who hear the Good News, but to "teach them all things which he has commanded us." Obviously, it is important for people to know something about the Christian life and the teachings of God's Word. Jesus wants us to understand what it means to be a Christian and live according to His will.
Today, many are baptized without knowing the slightest bit about what it means to be a Christian. Very few know much of the truths of Scripture for themselves. This is not as it should be. Jesus speaks clearly to us in the Bible and we must believe and follow what he says.
Notice another prerequisite which Jesus gives us in: Mark 16:16 Jesus said "Whoever believes" – Belief in Jesus is crucial.
Perhaps you have wondered about infant baptism. Is this common practice proper for Christians. Well, think for a moment – Can infants be taught to believe? So infant baptism is not in the Bible. It was first introduced by Catholicism to keep children in the church.
Of course, lots of others have not progressed past this tradition from Rome. Turn in your Bibles please to another important text in Acts 2. Acts 2:37,38
After preaching a stirring Gospel message – the people ask the question "What shall we do?" "Repent and be Baptized" they were told. Well, again can a baby repent? What do they need to repent of? They are innocent. James 4:17 says "To him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin." So we are to repent and believe and be taught the important truths of the Word.
One of the reasons the church made the change was because many people would put off being baptized until they were on their deathbed. Their loved-ones would naturally be concerned and so they would use wet towels, etc. Finally, they concluded – if it is good for the dying it is good for all. Pouring and sprinkling became the practice of the church.
But, if according to the scriptures it is important to be baptized, then I believe it is also important to follow the Biblical example concerning how and when it is to be done.
Tonight, maybe you are wondering – Is God particular? Does it really matter whether we obey His Word and get baptized as He teaches? Remember – Israel? 600,000 left Egypt – How many crossed over into the Promised Land? 599,998 did not – only 2 of the original adults. Caleb and Joshua – Why? Numbers 14:24
He had an obedient spirit and followed God fully. Today God is still looking for those who are willing to follow Him fully. Let me show you a verse where Paul establishes a principle. 1 Corinthians 10:11
These things were written for our admonition – an example for us living at the end of time. God wants us to understand the danger of not living by His grace and obeying His truth. Through commitment to Jesus in complete surrender of our lives we can live lives of victory.
Baptism is an opportunity to die to self and sin and rise in the new life for Christ through His power in our lives. Romans 6:11 We can die to sin and self as we commit fully to Christ. And Jesus wants us to know that He commits to those who trust in Him. He has faced Satan's temptations head on.
And He promises to stand by you when you need Him. Baptism does not mean that your life will be temptation free. It means you desire to live as a Christian and so Christ lives for you as you commit to Him.
Listen to these promises from God's Word to you. 1 Corinthians 10:13
Jesus can and will do more than we could ever imagine if we would give Him the chance to bless our lives. Ephesians 3:20 His power is available to all – He is able – if we would allow Him the opportunity. Maybe your life has not been what it should be. You have not lived up to your expectations or God's. Jesus doesn't condemn or abandon us.
Often people ask about rebaptism. Is it ever necessary to be rebaptized? Acts 19:1-5 gives us an example of some who having learned new truths were rebaptized. Sometimes people fall away from the Lord – maybe they were never fully instructed in the truths of God's Word. These are reasons for rebaptism.
Another question often asked – Do I join a church when I'm baptized? Let's look at a few verses that address this. Acts 2:41,47 – 1Corinthians 12:13 – Colosains 1:18 There is no question more urgent than recorded in Acts 16. Acts 16:30-33
The question is asked – "What must I do to be saved?" There is no issue more personal or important to each of us. And the answer is just as crucial. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved" – That's the only way to Heaven – It's through faith in Jesus. But look at what happens here in Acts. Acts 16:32,33 The Bible says that immediately after they were taught the truths of the Gospel and the Word they were baptized. That Phillipian jailer was so moved by conviction and faith in God that he insisted on being baptized in the middle of the night with all his family. They did not hesitate to obey the Lord concerning this important Christian experience.
When the light of truth shines into your heart and you desire to follow Jesus fully is to be baptized. Baptism is the sign of full surrender to Jesus and His truth.
Ananias expressed the same urgency in his appeal to the newly converted Paul. Acts 22:16 Don't delay – "Arise and be baptized" Is that the appeal, which the Holy Spirit is pressing upon your heart this very moment?
Baptism isn't what earns you the right to go to Heaven. Jesus' blood has already provided for that. Baptism is part of the preparation for Heaven and the 2nd Coming. Jesus told us to make disciples in Matthew 28:19,20
Baptism is part of that process of following Jesus in full commitment to His will for your life. If You love the Lord, and recognize that He has died for your sins. By faith you have accepted His atoning death on your behalf.
Then you need to make the most important decision of your life. It may not appear easy to follow Jesus. It wasn't easy for Him to go to Calvary either.
Maybe you are afraid of letting Him down. But, He wants to encourage you to turn from your fears. The transforming grace of Jesus brings peace and assurance into your life. Your walk with Jesus does not depend on your ability to overcome temptation and human weakness. If you think in terms of what you can do, you may remain in the twilight zone of indecision forever.
Right now, you need to focus upon the love and grace of the One who invites you to be His friend forever. It is the unfailing nature of His love and promises that can give you perfect trust in living the christian life. Won't you say yes to Jesus tonight - He invites you to come to Him and be baptized. Tonight you can make a decision to put the past behind and start life over with Jesus. How many would like to say yes to the one who gave all on Calvary?