Digging Deeper: Baptism Follows Faith in Christ
But now the people believed Philip’s message of Good News concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. As a result, many men and women were baptized.
Acts 8:12 (NLT)
BAPTISM IN THE NEW TESTAMENT ALWAYS FOLLOWS A PERSON COMING TO FAITH IN CHRIST
When a person pledges allegiance to the flag, he or she is openly identifying with the United States of America. Likewise, when a person is baptized, he or she is pledging allegiance to Jesus Christ by openly identifying with Him.
A second illustration of baptism is the wedding ring. When a man (or woman) gets married, he (or she) almost always begins to wear a wedding ring or band. The wedding ring does not make someone married; some people choose not to wear a ring, yet they are still legally and truly married. However, the wedding ring is more than a piece of ornamental jewelry. It represents the solemn commitment of a man and a woman to become husband and wife. It is a public testimony to that commitment. A wedding ring identifies a wife with her husband and a husband with his wife. It is a public symbol of a private commitment. Likewise, when a person is baptized, he or she is publicly identifying with Jesus Christ. It is an outward symbol of an inward commitment. (Brian Bill)
Acts 8:12 emphasizes that “as a result” of believing the message of Jesus and salvation, many were baptized. Baptism that comes before someone believes in Jesus for themselves is nothing more than getting wet and has no spiritual value for the believer personally. Biblical baptism always followed someone believing the message of Jesus.
Reflection
Do you remember when you were baptized? Did your baptism come after you repented of your sins and trusted in Jesus for your salvation? If not, let our church office know that you would like to get your baptism in the right order, and let’s get it scheduled.
Praise/Prayer
Thank God for pledging His commitment to you by inviting you into a personal relationship with Him. Ask God to help you live out your commitment to Him, beginning with baptism and continuing by daily following Jesus.
Dr. Larry Grays is the father of four and lives in the Canton area. Larry consults with churches, schools, city governments, and businesses nationwide. He’s been a member of the NorthStar family for over 20 years.