Jesus went to the Jordan River to be baptized by John, His cousin, as a sign of obedience and purification before God. His disciples repeated that, both during His ministry and after His ascension. Baptism initiates us into the new community as we step forward by faith in response to God’s gracious gift of new life and forgiveness in Christ.
Key passages: Matthew 3:13-17; Romans 6:1-14; 1 Peter 3:20-21
SERMON OUTLINE
“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.” (Romans 6:4)
Jesus and Baptism (Matthew 3:13-17)
- What Jesus’ baptism means
- A baptism like Jesus…but not like Jesus at the same time
Baptism as a Picture Christ’s Complete Work (1 Peter 3:20-21)
- Baptism: saved from sinking in sin
- Baptism: cleansed with washing from sin
Baptism as a Picture of Christ’s Ongoing Work (Romans 6:1-14)
- Baptism: dying with Christ to sin
- Baptism: rising with Christ fully alive
- Baptism: giving ourselves with Christ to God daily
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When have you experienced a fresh start in your life in terms of work, school, relationships, or some other area of life? What happened?
- This weekend we are exploring the meaning of baptism. We will look at three different portions of Scripture. Begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through His word, and then begin the study.
- Read Matthew 3:13-17 aloud. In this story of Jesus’ baptism, what stands out to you about Jesus, the crowd watching, and God the Father’s interactions?
- How do you think our baptism is similar to or different from that of Jesus?
- Now read 1 Peter 3:20-21. In the midst of discussion of suffering for our faith, the Apostle Peter compares baptism to Noah’s ark. What is that about and what is he trying to say?
- Turn now to Romans 6:1-14. In this detailed passage about baptism, Paul draws parallels between Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection and the Christian’s life of discipleship. How does baptism parallel Jesus’ death? How does baptism parallel Jesus’ resurrection?
- What does Paul’s teaching on baptism in Romans 6 convey about our practical daily living as followers of Jesus? What is one thing God is speaking to you about this?