John 1:29-34
29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’ 31 I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” 32 And John bore witness: “I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. 33 I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”
John 1:29-34
I have had the privilege of baptizing around 20 people since becoming a pastor. None of them were Jesus. Sadly a number of them are now disassociated with regular church attendance and at times avoid spiritual conversations with me. Still, there was a moment in time in which they professed Christ and in obedience to this truth entered the baptismal waters and were baptized. I don’t know what truly goes on in the heart of a person and I am grateful I am not the judge of these matters.
The Bible is clear that Baptism does not save a person but is important in the spiritual growth of a person. Baptism is a clear public display of faith and while a person is still in the flesh temptations and failures will come. However, I believe if the heart is genuine times of confession and repentance of short comings will prevail and Christ will continue to take the failures of those who trust Him on Himself, if they repent and ask Him for grace. (1 Jn. 1:9) This is my prayer for those whom I have and hope to baptized.
As we consider this passage surrounding Jesus’ baptism what is your story? Has your story led to baptismal waters? If so were you truly following Christ into the baptismal waters? What have the characteristics of your life been like after baptism? Has there been an overall constant desire to be joined to Christ’s bride, the church, and grow in intimate relationship with Him?
I encourage you to take a little time in reflection with God on His grand plan and how your life fits in this grand narrative. I am so thankful that while I was still a sinner, Christ died for me! (Rom. 5:8) How about you?
