What We Get Wrong About Baptism
Jesus gave us an example of baptism the right way it should be done, not the way it is usually done. Baptism represents yieldedness to God. If someone takes you down into the water, you are not fully demonstrating your yieldedness to God. You just need to go down yourself.
Baptism is more than a symbolic ritual; it represents full surrender to God and a personal commitment to follow His will. It signifies dying to self and yielding control, fully aligning yourself with God’s purposes. Jesus modeled this act of obedience through His own baptism, demonstrating its necessity and significance in carrying out God’s plan (Matthew 3:15).
Key Themes:
Baptism as Surrender: A declaration of yielding your life to God, “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Matthew 6:10). We are buried with Him in baptism (Romans 6:4). This act is both symbolic and deeply personal, representing death to self and rebirth in Christ.
Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: Beyond water baptism, the baptism of the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live out God’s Word and fulfill their ministry. Acts 1:8 reminds us of the power of our witness as the Holy Spirit gives us the ability to live as martyrs.
Misunderstandings of Baptism: Many approach baptism as a tradition rather than a heartfelt act of obedience. Without true surrender, it lacks the transformative impact it’s meant to embody.
Daily Commitment: Yieldedness is not a one-time event but a daily decision to yield to God and live as His ambassador on earth, continually realigning priorities to His will when you are tempted to stray. Paul said, “To will is present with me” (Romans 7:18).
Call to Action:
If baptism feels like a formality or was done without full understanding of its depth, now is the time to reflect and commit fully. Seek guidance from spiritual leaders, pray about areas where surrender is needed, and invite the Holy Spirit to empower you. Baptism is the starting point of living a surrendered, purpose-filled life in Christ.
Watch the video here: https://youtube.com/live/cS5BmbNbpec