The Meaning of Baptism - 1/13/08

For Jesus:

John was preaching a message of repentance from sin, and the baptism he gave was a sign of that repentance.  When Jesus came to him, John recognized that Jesus was without sin and therefore did not need to be baptized.  In fact, John realized that Jesus was God’s Messiah and should baptize him.

            Jesus responded that it was right for John to baptize him, that it was part of God’s plan because it represented the work and person of Christ. 

It indicated why He came

            Obedience

            Willingness to identify with humanity – indicates Jesus willingness to be our representative and take on our sin.

            Willingness to die to bring us new life - Baptism symbol of death and resurrection

It indicated who He is

            Anointed

            Empowered

            God’s Son

For Us:

It indicates our willingness:

            To obey – Christ’s command to be baptized

            To identify with Christ

            To die to self and receive Christ’s life

It indicates what we need to do

Repent

            Believe

            Be baptized

            Follow