To Whom Does Baptism Belong?
Scripture Reading: Acts 10:34-48
Let’s turn together in our Bibles to Acts, chapter 10, verses 34-48.
“So Peter opened his mouth and said: ‘Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation, anyone who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him. As for the word that He sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of all—you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.
We are witnesses of all that He did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put Him to death by hanging Him on a tree, but God raised Him on the third day and made Him appear—not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with Him after He rose from the dead. And He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that He is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.
To Him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name.’
While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God.
Then Peter declared, ‘Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?’ And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days.”
Thus far the reading of God’s Word.
A Special Focus on Baptism
Today, we are going to do something slightly unconventional by preaching a topical sermon. The reason for this is that we will witness four baptisms this morning. However, this message is not just for those being baptized today; it is for everyone, including those who have already been baptized.
As you witness these baptisms, it should remind you of your own baptism. It’s a time for reflection:
- Rejoice in the grace God has shown these individuals today.
- Rejoice in the grace He showed you in your baptism.
- Rejoice in the grace He continues to show all who have been baptized.
Baptism: A Means of Grace
Baptism is a sacred ordinance God has given to the church as a means of grace:
- When we witness baptism, God uses it to strengthen and increase our faith in Him.
- It serves as an exhortation to those who may still be unbelieving.
Baptism points to what only Christ can do:
- Cleanse the sinner from their sin.
- Wipe away the stain of sin and make us white as snow.
- Cause us to walk in newness of life through His death and resurrection.
Baptism should be something that all of us desire. However, this raises an important question: To whom does baptism belong?
To Whom Does Baptism Belong?
We will consider this question under three key points:
1. Baptism Belongs to Those Jesus Identified With in His Baptism
Jesus was baptized to identify Himself with sinners. Though He was sinless, He took on human flesh and entered the waters of baptism as a sign of His solidarity with those He came to save.
2. Baptism Belongs to Those Who Repent and Believe
Baptism is for those who have:
- Repented of their sins.
- Believed in the saving work of Jesus Christ.
Baptism is a public testimony of faith, symbolizing the cleansing of sin and union with Christ.
3. Baptism Belongs to Those Who Understand Its Purpose
We must understand the ends (or purposes) of baptism:
- Baptism is not a magical act but a sign and seal of God’s promises.
- It points us to Christ’s work on the cross and His resurrection.
- It signifies our union with Christ and new life in Him.
A Call to Reflection and Rejoicing
As we witness these baptisms today, let it serve as:
- A reminder of God’s grace in your own baptism.
- A call to faith for those who have not yet believed.
- An opportunity to rejoice in the power of Christ to cleanse, renew, and save.
Let us celebrate the work of God in these lives and reflect on His ongoing work in our own.
Conclusion
Baptism belongs to those whom Christ has called, those who have repented and believed, and those who embrace its purpose as a sign of God’s grace. Let us witness these baptisms today with hearts full of joy and faith, giving glory to God.
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