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August 22, 2016
The New Birth and Baptism - Romans 6
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| Jesus commissioned His followers to go and make disciples, "baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19). As the early church spread the gospel message, baptism would follow a new believer's response of faith. It publicly signified that the individual was now a follower of Jesus
Metaphors often communicate on a level that words cannot. Baptism is a powerful picture of our salvation experience. Through this act, we proclaim the good news that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose again--and testify that we've welcomed His transforming power into our life.
The Greek word for "baptize" in Scripture is the same term used to describe a cloth dipped in dye--it refers to total change. So by being plunged into the water, we declare that we're choosing to die to our old way of life and are uniting with Christ. Our sin is buried with Him, and its power is conquered through His atoning death on the cross (Romans 6:14). When we're raised up out of the water, we affirm His resurrection. Baptism is a symbolic way of expressing that just as the Lord conquered death and rose again, we are spiritually resurrected from death into new life. We are "born again" and irrevocably transformed through the power of His Holy Spirit.
In the Bible, the word "believe" isn't a conceptual word describing intellectual agreement alone. It is a word of action. Our belief should never be hidden like a light placed under a bowl (Luke 11:33)--when unbelieving family and friends look at our lives, they need to see the gospel in action.
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Current Sermon Series
As the world grows more connected, our neighbors are closer than ever. You might not share a fence, but you can still share their burdens and joys.
How to Neighbor is a four-week series with a strong push for local missions. Each week focuses on a different aspect of how to build relationships with our neighbors and how to do good in the context of those relationships. The topics covered are "Racism Reconciled," "Orphans Embraced," "Poor Empowered," and "Lonely Loved." We're praying this series will equip you to impact your community for Jesus.
Last Week:
We had a fabulous day at the Caldwell's. We studied I John 4:7-11, and we talked about the Knowing the Love of God.
Sunday's message is usually available for streaming or for download on our
sermons page, or by visiting us on iTunes, But, as we were at Church Outside, we were not able to record it.
Next Week:
We will be concluding our series by delving into The Lonely Loved.
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Upcoming Events
August 25, 2016 - Men's Small Group at 7 PM at the church. Please read chapters 8-10.
August 27, 2016 - Back To School Bash at the church from 2PM - 4 PM. There will be homemade ice cream, the slip n' slide, some bouncy houses, and lots more fun! This is for all, but especially the kids!
August 28, 2016 - Lord's Supper and Deacon's Fund Offering following the AM Worship Service
September 4, 2016 - Carry-in Fellowship Dinner
September 9, 2016 - Men's BBQ at 6 PM at the Southview Park and Pavilion. Cost is $5 per person.
September 12, 2016 - Ladies Small Group at 7 PM at Stephanie Robinson's house
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