The Waters Fine! Come on In.

Baptism: A Public Declaration of Faith

Scripture: Matthew 3:13-17; Romans 6:3-5

Introduction: A Defining Moment

"A morning of worship, a lifetime of grace."

Today is a special day in the life of our church as we witness the baptism of Kim Cissner, Douglas Cissner, and Phillip Tumlin. Baptism is more than just a ceremony—it is a public declaration of faith, a symbol of our union with Christ, and an act of obedience to His command.

Each of these individuals has placed their faith in Jesus Christ and is stepping forward today to be baptized, testifying to their new life in Him. Their decision reminds us all of the power of God’s grace and the call for every believer to follow Christ in obedience.

I. The Example of Jesus (Matthew 3:13-17)

Jesus Himself was baptized, setting an example for us to follow. In Matthew 3:13–17 “Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. But John tried to stop Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and yet You come to me?” Jesus answered him, “Allow it for now, because this is the way for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him to be baptized. After Jesus was baptized, He went up immediately from the water. The heavens suddenly opened for Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming down on Him. And there came a voice from heaven: This is My beloved Son. I take delight in Him!” , He came to John the Baptist at the Jordan River. Though John resisted at first, Jesus insisted, saying, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness."

Why Was Jesus Baptized?

To Identify with Us – Though He was sinless, Jesus humbled Himself to stand in our place, foreshadowing the cross.

To Fulfill All Righteousness – Jesus showed His commitment to the Father’s will.

To Set an Example – If Jesus was baptized, how much more should we follow in His footsteps?

The Father’s Approval

As Jesus came up from the water, the heavens opened, the Spirit descended, and the Father’s voice declared, "This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." (v. 17).

Today, as Kim, Douglas, and Phillip come forward in baptism, they are stepping into an act that is pleasing to God, just as Jesus’ baptism was.

II. Baptism as a Picture of Salvation (Romans 6:3-5)

Romans 6:3-5 explains the deep meaning of baptism:

"Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life."

What Does Baptism Represent?

Death to Sin – Going under the water symbolizes dying to the old life.

Burial with Christ – Just as Jesus was buried, baptism represents the burial of our past.

Resurrection to New Life – Rising from the water is a picture of our new life in Christ.

Today, Kim, Douglas, and Phillip publicly declare, "I belong to Jesus. I am not who I used to be!"

III. Baptism as an Act of Obedience (Matthew 28:19-20)

Jesus commanded His followers:

"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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19-20)

Baptism is not optional—it is an act of obedience to Christ’s command.

Who Should Be Baptized?

Those Who Have Trusted in Christ – Baptism is an outward sign of an inward change (Acts 2:41).

By Immersion – The Greek word baptizo means "to immerse," as practiced in the early church.

As Soon as Possible – In Acts, new believers were baptized immediately after salvation.

Today, Kim, Douglas, and Phillip have made this decision, following Christ’s command.

IV. The Testimony of Baptism

Baptism is a testimony to the world. It proclaims:

I belong to Jesus.

I am not ashamed of the gospel.

I will follow Christ all my life.

As Kim, Douglas, and Phillip are baptized today, their testimony may lead others to ask, "What does this mean?" just as the Ethiopian eunuch asked Philip in Acts 8:34-38.

Conclusion: Have You Taken This Step?

Baptism is a step of obedience, a symbol of salvation, and a testimony to the world. If you have placed your faith in Jesus but have never been baptized, why wait?

For those who have already been baptized, let today be a reminder of your commitment to Christ. You have been buried with Him and raised to walk in newness of life—live in that truth!

Invitation:

If you have never given your life to Christ, that is the first step. Baptism follows salvation, but today, you can make the decision to surrender your life to Jesus. Come, believe, and be made new.

Now, let us celebrate with joy as Kim Cissner, Douglas Cissner, and Phillip Tumlin take this important step of faith!

Baptism Service Script –

Opening Words

Pastor: "A morning of worship, a lifetime of grace."

(Pause and smile at the congregation.)

"Brothers and sisters in Christ, today is a day of celebration! Baptism is a beautiful act of obedience and public profession of faith in Jesus Christ. It is not the water that saves but the blood of Jesus and the grace of God. This is an outward sign of an inward transformation that has already taken place in the heart of the believer."

Reading of Scripture

(Choose one or more of the following passages to read before the baptism.)

Matthew 28:19-20 – “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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Romans 6:3-4 – “Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.”

Introduction of the Candidate

(As the candidate enters the baptismal waters, introduce them to the congregation.) Pastor: "Church family, this is [Candidate’s Name]. [He/She] has confessed Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and comes today in obedience to the command of Christ to be baptized as a testimony of [his/her] faith."

Profession of Faith

(Turning to the candidate, the pastor asks questions to affirm their faith.)

Pastor: "[Candidate’s Name], have you repented of your sins and trusted in Jesus Christ alone for your salvation?" Candidate: "Yes!"

Pastor: "Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who died for your sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day?" Candidate: "Yes!"

Pastor: "Do you commit to following Jesus Christ as Lord for the rest of your life?" Candidate: "Yes!"

The Baptism

(The pastor places one hand on the candidate’s back and the other over their clasped hands.)

Pastor: "Upon your profession of faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, and in obedience to His command, I baptize you, my [brother/sister], in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."

(The pastor gently lowers the candidate into the water and raises them up.)

Pastor (as the candidate rises): "Buried with Christ in baptism, raised to walk in newness of life!" (Romans 6:4)

(The congregation applauds and rejoices.)

Closing Remarks & Prayer

Pastor: "Church, what a joy it is to witness the obedience of God’s people! Baptism is just the beginning of a lifelong journey with Christ. Let us commit to praying for [Candidate’s Name] as [he/she] grows in faith."

(Prayer for the newly baptized believer and for others considering baptism.)

"If God has been stirring in your heart today, and you have never been baptized, I invite you to come and talk with me after the service. There is nothing greater than surrendering your life to Christ!"

(Transition back to worship or closing hymn.) Pastor: "Let’s continue to worship our great God!"