Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- July 9, 2013
We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. Romans 6:4
Baptism is beautiful to behold because it is an example of God’s great love pictured in the death and resurrection of His son Jesus. The Lord Jesus walked courageously in the shadow of death’s valley. He died, was buried and all hope seemed to die with Him. His death darkened His disciples’ faith. However, by the glory of the Father, Christ was raised from the dead, never to die again. Hope was alive, because Jesus was alive. Baptism celebrates Jesus Christ’s triumph over death!
All who are spiritually dead in sin, walk in the shadow of a scary death. The valley of despair is lonely without the Lord. However, we can die to our self without having to die in our sin. When we choose by faith to crucify ourselves with Christ, we die to our old way of living and thinking. Death to self brings life from our Savior Jesus. The great exchange of our old life with Christ’s new life makes death a pass through to paradise. His resurrected life empowers our new life.
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20
Has baptism followed your spiritual comprehension and true belief in God? Yes, baptism before belief is a counterfeit claim. Thus, make sure the order of your baptismal ordinance follows your genuine faith. A baby’s baptism can be a dedication by parents to raise their child in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, but it is not an illustration of the infant’s conversion. Believer’s baptism is a public and bold declaration of death to self and raised to walk in newness of life.
Lastly, the Lord Jesus modeled for us the way of baptism. He humbled Himself in the presence of the public to pronounce His allegiance to His Heavenly Father. As He prayed, He was affirmed by Almighty God. Therefore, your baptism is a spiritual act of service that causes your Heavenly Father to smile. He is well pleased with your public profession of faith. An obedient faith that leads to baptism is an authentic faith. When immersed, God’s love immerses your soul!
When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased. Luke 3:21-22
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for my beautiful baptism that pictures Your great grace.
Related Readings: Matthew 28:19; Acts 8:36-38; Romans 7:6; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21
Post/Tweet today: An obedient faith that leads to baptism is an authentic faith. #baptism
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