One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism

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Through baptism in water and Spirit, we are equipped to embrace our identity in Christ and actively participate in His mission of renewal.

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Renewed for His Work: The Call of Water and Spirit

Bible Passage: Luke 3:15–17, Luke 3:21–22, Acts 8:14–17, Isaiah 43:1–7

Summary: This theme explores the significance of baptism in water and the Spirit, emphasizing how these experiences equip believers to partake in God's redemptive mission in the world.
Application: Understanding the dual baptism of water and Spirit can empower Christians to engage in their communities with renewed purpose and confidence, knowing they are divinely equipped for service and transformation.
Teaching: The message of baptism transcends mere ritual; it is an invitation into a relationship with God that mobilizes us into action for His kingdom. It teaches us about identity and empowerment in Christ.
Point to Christ: The baptism of Jesus and subsequent outpouring of the Holy Spirit highlight Christ as the initiator of our new identities as children of God, preparing us for mission—a mission modeled after His own work on earth.
Big Idea: Through baptism in water and Spirit, we are equipped to embrace our identity in Christ and actively participate in His mission of renewal.
Recommended Study: Consider exploring the ancient cultural understanding of baptism in the Jewish tradition and its relation to new identity in Christ. Look into the theological implications of the Holy Spirit's role in believer's lives as presented in Acts, and how this reflects the prophecies of renewal found in Isaiah.

1. Expectations and Empowerment

Luke 3:15-17
The people had many expectations for the Messiah prophesied from scripture.
John the Baptist prepares them by proclaiming the coming of the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit and fire.
The Holy Spirit is about providing reassuring identity and releasing transformative power to refine and invigorate believers for God's work.
This reflects on our readiness to receive God's empowerment.

2. Identity through Baptism

Luke 3:21-22
The baptism of Jesus is a pivotal moment of divine affirmation, where the heavens open, and the Spirit descends.
The Spirit reveals Christ's true identity as the only beloved Son of God. This is not adoption of Jesus but a full affirmation as begotten Son of (one who comes directly from)God.
Here, Jesus received divine approval for who he is, how he has lived, and how he will live into his divine purpose.
Our baptism into Christ grants us a share in this identity, preparing us for mission. Jesus imparted his same Spirit to his disciples, Jews and Gentiles.
Baptism is not simple reenactment, but both an act of obedience and initiation into God's family (the church) and God’s mission.

3. Community and Confirmation

Acts 8:14-17
Peter and Paul were sent to reassure the new believers in Samaria and ensure their reception of the Holy Spirit, signifying the importance of communal support in experiencing the fullness of the Spirit.
We must foster community and disciple others so all experience the empowerment of the Spirit for service in God's kingdom.

4. Redeemed for a Purpose

Isaiah 43:1-7
God's declared Israel's identity as his own, and gave His promises of protection and presence.
Link being redeemed and called by God to a purpose.
Without redemption, we wander through life, every hurt and harm thinking we are at the whims of every earthly and spiritual force, with no hope of receiving direction or help.
This passage parallels our Christian journey, where baptism symbolizes our calling and destiny in God's redemptive plan, encouraging us to live boldly for Him.
Application:
When engaging in community service, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by the scale of needs around you. Reflect on your dual baptism; you possess divine power through the Holy Spirit. Choose a local charity or cause that resonates with you, like a food bank or community garden, and volunteer consistently. Invite coworkers or friends to join. Each act of service, no matter how small, makes a significant for someone. As you work together, share insights about how faith motivates your service, thereby transforming the atmosphere around you and inspiring others to engage with purpose.
In Christ our Lord, we have faith in redemption through him, and are baptized into a new life and calling to transform the world by His Holy loving Spirit.
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