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NEW TESTAMENT BAPTISMS Baptism in Water By Larry Kreider Baptism in Water Makes a Public Announcement As a sign of our faith in Jesus, water baptism makes several bold statements. Let's look at these statements in the next four sections. First of all, the Bible tells us that water baptism is a public announcement of our decision to turn our backs on sin and live for Jesus Christ....all should be baptized as a public announcement of their decision to turn their backs on sin (Mark 1:4 TLB). Baptism is a public announcement that we have taken a clear stand for Jesus Christ. In the early church, it was taken for granted that when someone turned his life over to Jesus Christ, his first step of obedience was water baptism..."Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins...(Acts 2:38)." When I was a youth worker, there were times when dozens of young people gave their lives to Jesus during a given week. We often baptized them the same day they were born again. Some were baptized in swimming pools, others in rivers and ponds, and stilll others in bathtubs. These water baptisms were very meaningful, spiritual times. Baptisms can take place in varied settings, large or small. Some baptisms can be planned ahead and attended by friends and family so they can be a part of the celebration. No matter what method or in what setting, new Christians are making a public statement by participating in the physical, outward sign of their salvtion by being baptized. This act of faith is a decision that empowers Christians to fulfill the Great Commission to whole-heartedly make and baptize disicples. "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:19-20)." 
REFLECTION If you have been water-baptized, what does it mean to you, to Jesus, to your friends? _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________
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