083 Ordinances of the Church: Baptism Part One

“Baptism is also an illustration of Christ's death and burial, and resurrection. It's meant to be a public declaration of faith in Christ. It's meant to be a step of identification with him. It's meant to be a proclamation of desire to follow him.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston   

Hello Kitchen Table Theology Family!  In this episode, Pastor Jeff and Jen Denton are beginning a new series on the ordinances of the church. Jesus left his church with these wonderful practices, but why is there's so much confusion and disagreement among Christians regarding these things? 

[00:01] Why Are the Ordinances of the Church so Divisive? 

• This episode is brought to you by Your Greatest Adventure: Taking the Next Steps in Your Faith by Pastor Jeff Cranston 
• If these practices are meant to unite the body of Christ, why is there so much disagreement?  
• Ordinance and Sacraments refer to the same thing. It may not make any difference, with which verbiage to use but it all comes down to how we define them
• Are differing views of Baptism enough cause to a sever among the church?

 [09:05] The Importance of Baptism  

• Baptism is 
  • Intended to be an initial act of obedience to Christ
  • An illustration of Christ's death and burial, and resurrection
  • Meant to be a public declaration of faith in Christ 
  • Meant to be a step of identification with him 
  • Meant to be a proclamation of desire to follow him
• Jesus commanded us to be baptized 
• Baptism is a foundational truth of the Christian faith (Hebrews 6:1-2)

[11:19] How Should We Baptize? 

• This is a highly debated topic
• Evidence presented that baptism by immersion was carried out  in the New Testament 
  • Βαπτίζω (Greek word for baptize) meaning to plunge to dip, or to immerse in.
  • Scriptural references in Mark 1 and John 3:23 
  • The symbolism of baptism by immersion portrays the union we have with Christ and His death, His burial and His resurrection

[16:39] Final Thoughts    

• Final words - We read a listener’s review!  
• Connect with us! 

Key Quotes

“Baptism is intended to be an initial act of obedience to Christ. Once you have come to faith in Christ, your next step immediately should be to be baptized.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston  

“Jesus commanded us to be baptized, that was a command, not a suggestion.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston   

Resources Mentioned

• Your Greatest Adventure: Taking the Next Steps in Your Faith by Pastor Jeff Cranston 

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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!