This Sunday, we are going to take a short detour from Genesis and spend some time examining the subject of baptism. I know that this is a topic that has been taught before at Eastgate, but to clarify that choice is intentional. There is a reason that we keep coming back to a sacred ritual of our faith, a sacred ritual that we encourage all Christians to partake in. At the beginning of the gospel of Mark, we find John the Baptist in the Jordan River baptizing many Israelites. Baptism was a demonstration of their repentance and renewal in God. In Mark chapter 1, Jesus arrives at the Jordan river and asks John to baptize him.
Why do you think Jesus took his turn with all the other people there and underwent this ritual? What does it tell us about the nature of this Divine King?
After his baptism, the fabric of reality is torn open and a glimpse is given to God’s reality – and from heaven the Holy Spirit descends on Jesus and God’s voice speaks calling Jesus His beloved Son. This is a passage that gives a provoking glance at the mystery of God’s Triune nature.
Jesus, as Messiah, stands as representative of all the human race. He entered our condition in order to bring us into His condition. That means that what is true of Jesus is true of those who believe in and follow Him.
What do you believe the Father declares about you? Can you imagine God saying to you: “You are my Child, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” Let that run through your mind, and put your own name in that sentence. What is your reaction to that?
I invite you to join us this Sunday at 10:00AM as we discuss the importance of baptism. We also invite you to join us at Rick Seltzer park after church to cheer on those who have decided to dedicate their lives to Jesus and get baptized.