Baptism: Going Public

Before Jesus returned to heaven, He gave His followers a mission: "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" (Matthew 28:19).

Baptism has been the first public step of faith since the very beginning of the church.

Baptism does not save you. Jesus saves you. Baptism is the outward picture of what has already happened inside.

Paul describes it this way. In baptism you are identified with Jesus in His death and burial. Coming up out of the water, you are identified with His resurrection. You go down as the old life. You come up to walk in a new one.

Baptism is also a public declaration. It tells your family, your friends, and your church that you belong to Jesus now. That matters. Faith was never meant to be a secret.

If you have not been baptized since putting your trust in Jesus, this is a great next step. Talk with a pastor or leader at a local church. Ask how they do baptism and when the next opportunity is.

If you have already been baptized, take a moment to remember it. Thank God for the new life it pictures.

Reflect

What is holding you back from going public with your faith?

Pray

Jesus, thank You for dying and rising for me. I want to identify with You openly. Give me courage to take the step of baptism and to live a new life that others can see. Amen.

Today's Scripture (NIV)

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