Jesus' Baptism and Our Baptism.

One of the more significant things that occurs in the story of Jesus is his baptism, reception of the Holy Spirit and the announcement of his sonship.

Let me suggest that it is significant because it is a forecast of exactly what happens with Christians.

Believers are told to repent, be baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). Jesus had no need to repent but was baptized and the Holy Spirit came upon him and he started his Spirit driven ministry. We too have a ministry in association with the Holy Spirit.

If this is true, that Jesus’ example is a pattern for all of us, then the question is begged why do so many baptize babies?

- Jesus was not baptized as a baby

- babies have no sins that need to be washed away

- babies don’t begin a ministry being led by the Holy Spirit to do battle with Satan

It also begs the question about why so many diminish baptism (to elevate the importance of belief) by putting baptism off for a more convenient time.

- the Holy Spirit doesn’t come at the point of belief. It comes at the point of baptism when the believer has had all his sins washed away and is a cleansed Temple in which the Holy Spirit can dwell in.

- Why would some choose to delay baptism and delay the reception of the Holy Spirit? If baptism announces to the spirit world our sonship and the beginning of our ministry why would we be satisfied with belief and the “sinners prayer” as is advocated by some.

- If we are true sons and daughters (and he testifies to that by giving his Holy Spirit) why live in fear?

Rejoice in the relationship and don’t worry that God is just looking for you to make some mistake that if not confessed will send you to eternal damnation.

We are true sons and daughters of the most Holy One. Live like Him and be Him and be a light to the world.

Belief, repentance and baptism are essential elements to become children of God and brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ.