What Prevents Me From Being Baptized?
This past Sunday, I mentioned the incredible story of the man on the cross who was saved in the last moments of his life. Clearly he did not understand theology, he never gave a penny to God’s work, and he never had time to get baptized. But Jesus promised him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise!” (Luke 23:43 ESV) What a wonderful reminder that, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV) As the old hymn goes, “Jesus paid it all!” But does this give us an excuse not to get baptized? I do not think so.
In scripture, we are called to follow Jesus in the step of baptism (Matt 28:19-20, Acts 2:38). I love the story of Philip and his encounter with a man who had given his life to Jesus. Once the man understood his faith, he said, "See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?” (Acts 8:36 ESV)
I remember a compelling message by Dr. Tony Evans, who described baptism as a bit like a wedding ring. He put it powerfully when he said, “When a person gets married, he or she puts on a ring. That ring does not make them married. She could be married without a ring, just like you could be saved without being baptized. But what the ring does do is serve as a sign that she is married. Many times, when you see a guy talking to a girl, you will see his eyes go down to her left hand to see whether or not she has already been spoken for and is committed to another. I am certain that a wife who refused to wear her ring would insult any husband and vice versa. It would probably be taken as a rejection of the spouse. The ring is more than a piece of jewelry. The piece of jewelry represents an institution and a covenant.” This is a sweet reminder of what baptism is – a willingness to go public with our commitment and covenant with God.
Long before Facebook and Instagram, I remember the day I put an engagement ring on Ally’s finger; it was a wonderful way to declare to the world that we were getting married! I was so delighted to go public with our relationship. I hope you feel the same way about your relationship with Jesus. I fear that some identify with Jesus in private, but in public, they don’t want folks to know they are associated with Him.
Perhaps this is the week for you to consider the question, “What prevents me from being baptized?” It is not too late to sign up to be baptized at Hope this weekend. If you are interested in finding out more, please click here.
Expectantly,
Shawn
