Messages and Notes

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Sermon Notes: Paul’s Prayer for the Believer

The two prayers in Ephesians complement each other.

Ephesians 1:15–23 focuses on knowing what God has done for you in Christ

Ephesians 3:14–21emphasizes experiencing His blessings.

  • The first is for enlightenment;
  • The second is for enablement.

The Reason

Ephesians 3:12‭-‬13 NIV In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

The Message

Ephesians 3:14‭-‬21 NIV 14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name.

  • Matthew 6:9‭-‬10 NIV  “This, then, is how you should pray: “ ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
  • Ephesians 2:19‭, ‬22 NIV  19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 

  • Colossians 3:12 NIV Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,

  • 1 Corinthians 2:9‭-‬10 NIV However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”— 10 the things God has prepared for those who love him— these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.

The four dimensions Paul now presents as the object of such perception are closely linked with the knowledge of Christ’s love. That love, exemplified in Christ’s magnanimity to the Gentiles, is too large to be confined by any geometrical measurements.

  • It is “wide” enough to reach the whole world and beyond (1:9–10, 20).
  • It is “long” enough to stretch from eternity to eternity (1:4–6, 18; 3:9).
  • It is “high” enough to raise both Gentiles and Jews to heavenly places in Christ Jesus (1:13; 2:6).
  • It is “deep” enough to rescue people from sin’s degradation and even from the grip of Satan himself

19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:4‭-‬7 NIV Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

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Love Does Not Boast

The phrase “love does not boast,” found in 1 Corinthians 13:4, provides a crucial insight into the Christian understanding of love. This short but impactful phrase is part of a larger passage that describes the attributes of love, painting a picture of a virtue that is selfless and humble in nature.

Boasting is essentially a form of self-praise or excessive pride in one’s achievements, qualities, or possessions. It reflects an egocentric attitude, which is contrary to the essence of love as described in the Bible. Love, according to this passage, is not self-seeking or arrogant, but rather humble and focused on others.

Several scripture cross-references help illuminate this idea:

  • James 4:16: “As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil.” This verse directly addresses the issue of boasting, labeling it as arrogant and contrary to Christian values.
  • Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Here, Paul advises believers to act out of humility rather than conceit, a principle that aligns with the idea that love does not boast.
  • Proverbs 27:2: “Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips.” This proverb from the Old Testament also echoes the sentiment of humility, suggesting that praise should come from others rather than from self-promotion.
  • Galatians 6:14: “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” In this verse, Paul sets an example of what Christian boasting should look like – not boasting in oneself, but in the transformative work of Jesus Christ.
  • 1 Peter 5:5: “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'” This verse reinforces the virtue of humility in relationships, which is antithetical to boasting.

In summary, when Paul states that “love does not boast” in 1 Corinthians 13:4, he is emphasizing a key aspect of Christian love – its humility. True love, in this biblical context, is not about elevating oneself or seeking self-glory. Instead, it is about valuing others, celebrating their achievements, and humbly recognizing one’s own place in the larger tapestry of life and community. This understanding of love fosters a spirit of unity, mutual respect, and genuine care, reflecting the core values of Christian teachings.

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Sermon Notes: Thriving Amidst Envy and Resentment

Title: Thriving Amidst Envy and Resentment

Today, we delve into a challenging yet vital aspect of our spiritual journey – thriving in the midst of envy and resentment.

  • In a world where these negative emotions often take center stage,
  • How do we, as followers of Christ, navigate and triumph over them?

Scripture Reading: Genesis 37:4-11, 50:20

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭37:4‭-‬11‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [4] When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him. [5] Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. [6] He said to them, “Listen to this dream I had: [7] We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheaf rose and stood upright, while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it.” [8] His brothers said to him, “Do you intend to reign over us? Will you actually rule us?” And they hated him all the more because of his dream and what he had said. [9] Then he had another dream, and he told it to his brothers. “Listen,” he said, “I had another dream, and this time the sun and moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me.” [10] When he told his father as well as his brothers, his father rebuked him and said, “What is this dream you had? Will your mother and I and your brothers actually come and bow down to the ground before you?” [11] His brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the matter in mind.

I. Understanding Envy and Resentment

Envy and resentment are destructive emotions that can consume us from within.

  • James 3:16 says, “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” Envy distorts our perception, leading us to begrudge others’ successes or blessings.

II. Joseph’s Response to Envy

Joseph’s story teaches us valuable lessons in dealing with envy and resentment. Despite being sold into slavery and wrongfully imprisoned, Joseph remained faithful to God.

  • Romans 8:28 reminds us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

III. Cultivating a Heart of Gratitude

In the face of envy and resentment, cultivating a heart of gratitude is essential.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:18 instructs us, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to the abundant blessings we have in Christ.

IV. Forgiveness: The Antidote to Resentment

Forgiveness is a powerful antidote to resentment.

  • Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Forgiving those who have wronged us liberates us from the bondage of resentment.

V. Trusting God’s Sovereignty

In the midst of envy and resentment, trust in God’s sovereignty.

  • Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” God’s plans are higher than ours, and He can turn what was meant for harm into good.

How did Joseph see life?

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭50:20‭-‬21‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [20] You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. [21] So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.

There are also lessons from Daniel’s Story (see his story in Daniel Chapter 6)

  • Steadfast Faith: Daniel’s unyielding faith in God, even in the face of life-threatening circumstances, is a powerful testament to trusting in God’s protection and plan.
  • Integrity: Daniel’s integrity made it impossible for his enemies to find any legitimate fault in him.
  • God’s Deliverance: This story vividly illustrates how God can deliver and protect those who are faithful to Him, even in the midst of envy and resentment.

Conclusion

  • Thriving amidst envy and resentment is not about denying these feelings but about handling them in a way that aligns with our faith.
  • Like Joseph, let us stay faithful, cultivate gratitude, practice forgiveness, and trust in God’s perfect plan for our lives.
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Love Does Not Envy

The phrase “love does not envy,” found in 1 Corinthians 13:4, offers profound insight into the nature of true love from a Christian perspective. This statement is part of the Apostle Paul’s eloquent description of love’s qualities in his letter to the Corinthians, where he outlines what love is and is not.

To understand “love does not envy,” it is essential to consider the destructive nature of envy. Envy is a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to someone’s advantages, possessions, or achievements. It is inherently selfish and contrary to the selflessness of love. In contrast, love is generous and rejoices in the wellbeing and success of others.

Several scripture cross-references help in exploring this concept further:

James 3:16: “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” This verse underlines the negative consequences of envy, which is antithetical to the order and goodness associated with love.

Proverbs 14:30: “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” This proverb contrasts the tranquility that comes from a contented, loving heart with the destructive nature of envy.

Galatians 5:26: “Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” In this verse, Paul warns against behaviors that are opposite to the fruits of the Spirit, including envy. Love, as a fruit of the Spirit, is incompatible with envy.

Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” This verse encourages empathy and sharing in the emotions of others, whether they are positive or negative. This empathetic sharing is a characteristic of love that is directly opposed to envy.

Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” This teaching by Paul underscores the humility inherent in love, which is contrary to the self-centeredness of envy.

In summary, when Paul writes that “love does not envy” in 1 Corinthians 13:4, he is contrasting love’s selfless, generous nature with the harmful, selfish nature of envy.

True love, according to Christian teaching, is marked by a genuine happiness for others’ successes and well-being, without feeling threatened or diminished by them.

It is about elevating others and finding joy in their joy, rather than being consumed by a desire to have what they have. This approach fosters community, unity, and peace, reflecting the heart of Christian love and values.

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Bible Study: Peter’s Second Sermon

In Acts 3:11-26, Peter delivers another significant sermon, this time at the temple in Jerusalem after healing a lame man. Here’s a breakdown of this sermon:

1.Addressing the Amazed Crowd (Acts 3:11-12): After healing the lame man, a crowd gathers, amazed. Peter questions why they are surprised and clarifies that the healing was not done by his own power or piety but by the name of Jesus Christ.

2.Proclaiming Jesus Christ (Acts 3:13-15): Peter tells the crowd that the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of their fathers, has glorified Jesus, whom they delivered up and denied before Pilate. He emphasizes that they denied the Holy and Righteous One and asked for a murderer to be granted to them instead. He accuses them of killing the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead, a fact he and the other apostles are witnesses to.

3.Faith in Jesus’ Name (Acts 3:16): Peter explains that it is through faith in Jesus’ name that the lame man was healed, as seen by all. The faith which comes through Jesus has given the man perfect health.

4.Call to Repentance (Acts 3:17-19): Peter acknowledges that they acted in ignorance, as did their rulers. He urges them to repent and turn back to God so that their sins may be wiped out and times of refreshing may come from the Lord.

5.Fulfillment of Prophecy (Acts 3:20-24): He speaks of Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the time comes for God to restore everything, as promised long ago through the holy prophets. Peter references Moses, Samuel, and all the prophets who spoke of these days.

6.Addressing the Descendants of the Prophets (Acts 3:25-26): Peter reminds them that they are the descendants of the prophets and of the covenant God made with their ancestors. He concludes by saying that God raised up His servant Jesus and sent him first to bless them by turning each of them from their wicked ways.

Audience and Message: Peter’s audience was the Jewish people gathered at the temple, particularly those amazed by the healing miracle. His message focused on Jesus Christ’s role as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, the importance of faith in Jesus for healing and salvation, and a call for repentance and turning back to God. This sermon aimed to clarify that the miraculous healing was through Jesus Christ and to invite the Jewish people to acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah and turn to Him.

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Bible Study: Peter’s First Sermon

Peter’s sermon in Acts 2:14-36 is a significant part of the New Testament, marking the beginning of the church’s public ministry. Here’s a breakdown of the sermon:

1. Introduction (Acts 2:14-15): Peter begins by addressing the crowd that had gathered during the Pentecost. He refutes the idea that the disciples were drunk, as it was only the third hour of the day (about 9 AM).

2. Prophecy of Joel (Acts 2:16-21): Peter explains that the events they are witnessing were prophesied by Joel. He quotes Joel 2:28-32, emphasizing that God will pour out His Spirit in the last days, leading to prophetic visions and signs.

3. Jesus of Nazareth (Acts 2:22-24): Peter introduces Jesus of Nazareth, a man accredited by God through miracles, wonders, and signs. He states that Jesus was crucified and killed by lawless men but was raised by God, freeing Him from the agony of death.

4. Reference to David’s Psalm (Acts 2:25-28): Peter quotes Psalm 16:8-11, showing that King David spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, who would not be abandoned to the realm of the dead.

5. David’s Tomb (Acts 2:29-31): He points out that David died and was buried, and his tomb is still there. Thus, David was speaking prophetically about the resurrection of the Messiah.

6. Witnesses of the Resurrection (Acts 2:32-33): Peter asserts that the apostles are witnesses to Jesus’ resurrection. He explains that Jesus, exalted to the right hand of God, has received the promised Holy Spirit from the Father and has poured it out, as seen and heard by the crowd.

7. Lord and Christ (Acts 2:34-36): Peter concludes by citing Psalm 110:1, arguing that David did not ascend to heaven, but he foresaw the Lord saying to his Lord, “Sit at my right hand.” Peter declares that God has made Jesus, whom they crucified, both Lord and Christ.

Audience and Message: Peter delivered this sermon to a diverse crowd in Jerusalem during the Feast of Pentecost. The audience included devout Jews from various nations.

The message conveyed was the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through Jesus Christ, emphasizing His death, resurrection, and exaltation, and calling the people to recognize Jesus as both Lord and Christ.

This sermon is significant as it represents the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit and marks the birth of the Christian Church, with many people being moved to accept the message and be baptized.

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Love is Kind

“Love is kind,” as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4, is a profound and multifaceted concept that transcends simple sentimentality. This statement is part of a broader biblical passage known as the “Love Chapter,” which defines the nature and characteristics of true love.

In 1 Corinthians 13:4, love’s kindness is emphasized as a fundamental aspect. To understand this in a biblical context, it’s essential to explore the nature of kindness as an expression of love. Kindness, in the biblical sense, is not just about being nice or polite. It involves a deep compassion, a readiness to do good for others, and a selfless attitude. This kind of love is patient and forgiving, as suggested in the preceding part of the verse: “Love is patient, love is kind.”

Cross-references in the Bible further illustrate this concept:

Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” This verse connects kindness with forgiveness, highlighting that true kindness involves a forgiving spirit, a characteristic integral to love.

Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” This passage emphasizes that kindness is a virtue that should be actively cultivated, alongside other qualities like humility and patience.

Luke 6:35: “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” Here, Jesus teaches about the radical nature of divine love and kindness – it extends even to enemies and those who do not seem to deserve it.

Proverbs 19:22: “What a person desires is unfailing love; better to be poor than a liar.” This verse subtly touches on the idea that true kindness and love are more desirable than material wealth or false pretenses.

1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” This suggests that love, expressed through deep kindness, has the power to overlook and forgive faults and wrongdoings.

In summary, “Love is kind” from 1 Corinthians 13:4 is not just a statement about love’s gentle or pleasant nature. It’s a powerful testament to the selfless, forgiving, and compassionate qualities of love that are central to Christian teaching. This kind of love reflects the nature of God and is a model for how believers are called to love others – with a kindness that goes beyond mere feelings and manifests in tangible acts of goodness, forgiveness, and compassion.

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Love is Patient

The phrase “love is patient,” as stated in 1 Corinthians 13:4, is a significant and profound piece of biblical wisdom. This scripture is part of what is commonly known as the “Love Chapter,” renowned for its comprehensive and insightful depiction of love’s true essence.

In 1 Corinthians 13:4, patience is highlighted as a vital aspect of love. This patience transcends mere tolerance or delayed reaction; it’s about enduring longsuffering, showing understanding, and maintaining a disposition of forgiveness and empathy in the face of trials, irritations, or the imperfections of others. The concept of patience here is deeply intertwined with the idea of love as an enduring, compassionate, and forgiving commitment.

This perspective on patience can be further illuminated by cross-referencing other scriptures. For example, Ephesians 4:2 emphasizes patience in the context of maintaining unity and peace, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Similarly, Colossians 3:12-13 calls for believers to clothe themselves with patience, among other virtues, in the practice of love: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

The broader biblical narrative consistently portrays patience as an integral component of love. This patience is not passive; it is an active choice to endure, to forgive, and to remain steadfast in the face of challenges. This biblical portrayal of patience reflects an understanding of love that is far more than an emotion. It is a deliberate act of will, a commitment to persist in loving others despite difficulties or delays in achieving harmony or understanding.

In conclusion, “love is patient,” as stated in 1 Corinthians 13:4, alongside other scriptural references, offers a rich, multifaceted understanding of patience as an essential element of love. This concept challenges individuals to cultivate patience in their relationships, seeing it as a key expression of genuine love and a guiding principle for how to live harmoniously with others.

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Sermon Notes: Thankfulness Through Generosity

Sermon Outline: Generosity in the Early Church Acts 4:32-36

Introduction:

Acts Chapter 4 is pivotal in demonstrating the early church’s response to persecution, highlighting the boldness and courage of the apostles in proclaiming the gospel despite opposition. It also illustrates the deep sense of community and mutual support among the believers, setting a precedent for Christian fellowship and communal living.

I. Unity of Heart and Mind (Acts 4:32)

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭4:32‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [32] All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.
  • Explanation: Discuss the deep spiritual and communal unity of the early believers.

Cross References:

  • Ephesians 4:3 Unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
  • ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4:2‭-‬3‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [2] Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. [3] Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
  • Psalm 133:1 How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.

Application: Encouraging the congregation to foster unity in their local church community.

II. The Practice of Sharing (Acts 4:33-34)

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭4:33‭-‬34‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [33] With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all [34] that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales .
  • Explanation: Explore the practice of sharing possessions among the early Christians.

Cross References:

  • 2 Corinthians 8:9 Christ’s example of generosity.
  • Luke 12:33 Jesus’ teaching on selling possessions and giving to the poor.
  • ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭8:9‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [9] For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.

Application: Discussing practical ways to live generously in today’s context.

III. No Needy Persons Among Them (Acts 4:34-35)

  • Explanation: Highlighting how this practice effectively met the needs within the community.

Cross References:

  • James 2:15-16 Faith expressed through caring for others in need.
  • Matthew 25:35-40 Jesus’ teaching on caring for the least of these.

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25:34‭-‬36‬ ‭MSG‬‬ [34-36] “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what’s coming to you in this kingdom. It’s been ready for you since the world’s foundation. And here’s why: I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me.’

Application: Identifying and addressing the needs within the church and local community.

IV. The Example of Barnabas (Acts 4:36-37)

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭4:36‭-‬37‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [36] Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), [37] sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.
  • Explanation: Focusing on Barnabas as an example of generosity and encouragement.

Cross References:

  • 1 Timothy 6:18-19 Command to do good and to be rich in good deeds.
  • Hebrews 13:16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have.

Application: Encouraging individuals to be leaders in generosity.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

  1. Unity in Diversity: The early church’s unity was foundational to their practice of generosity.
  2. Generosity as a Lifestyle: Their giving was not occasional but a consistent lifestyle choice.
  3. Meeting Needs Builds Community: Generosity strengthened their community, leaving no one in need.
  4. Individual Responsibility: Each member, like Barnabas, played a role in the community’s well-being.
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Baptism

As you prepare for baptism, I wanted to share with you the significance of this step in your spiritual life.

1. The Meaning of Baptism:

Baptism symbolizes your personal faith in Jesus Christ and your commitment to follow Him. It represents the death of your old self and the birth of your new life in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

  • ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5:17‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 

2. Baptism as a Commandment:

Jesus Himself was baptized and commanded His followers to be baptized (Matthew 3:13-17, Matthew 28:19-20). It’s an act of obedience, showing your willingness to follow Christ’s example and commands.

  • ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28:19‭-‬20‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [19] Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

3. Symbolism of Water Baptism:

Being submerged in water during baptism represents dying with Christ to sin. Rising out of the water symbolizes the resurrection into a new life, as Christ was raised from the dead (Romans 6:3-4).

  • ‭‭Romans‬ ‭6:3‭-‬4‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [3] Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? [4] We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.

4. Public Declaration of Faith:

Baptism is a public declaration of your faith and commitment to Christ. It’s an outward expression of the inward change that has occurred in your heart (Acts 2:41).

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2:41‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [41] Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

5. Joining the Body of Christ:

Through baptism, you become part of the larger body of Christ, the church. It’s a sign of unity with other believers (1 Corinthians 12:13).

  • ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭12:13‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [13] For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 

6. The Role of the Holy Spirit:

Baptism also signifies the receipt of the Holy Spirit, who empowers and guides you in your Christian walk (Acts 2:38).

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2:38‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [38] Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 

We can discuss on Sunday.

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