Should a disagreement on baptism prevent a man pursuing a woman? Kevin and Josh use this reader question as a launchpad to talk about wise discernment in courtship. They discuss authority and submission…whether deferring to a woman's preference is permissible if she otherwise won't marry you…the implications lurking beneath the surface of simple doctrinal questions…and whether there is something more important than mere confessional alignment.

The sermon exhorts believers to walk by faith and remain vigilant against false teachings that rely on human tradition rather than Christ. It emphasizes that the Christian life is sustained solely by receiving Jesus, who possesses the fullness of deity and provides all necessary spiritual resources. Through union with Christ in His death and resurrection, believers receive a new heart and are freed from the legal demands of sin. The cross serves as the ultimate victory over demonic powers, canceling the record of debt that stood against humanity. Consequently, Christians are called to live in constant thanksgiving, trusting completely in the sufficiency of Christ for every aspect of their spiritual walk.

This Bible Study examines the life and betrayal of Judas Iscariot to illustrate the danger of religious profession without genuine regeneration. It contrasts Judas's outward appearance as a trusted apostle with his inward corruption, highlighting how he remained unregenerated despite years of proximity to Jesus and participation in miracles. The preacher emphasizes that external actions, such as baptism or witnessing power, do not guarantee salvation if the heart remains hardened and self-serving. By analyzing scriptural accounts from Mark, John, and Matthew, the text demonstrates that Judas was a thief and a betrayer whose faith was merely intellectual rather than transformative. Ultimately, the message serves as a solemn warning to believers to examine their own hearts to ensure they are truly born again and not merely counterfeit followers of Christ.

An explanation of the meaning of "one baptism"

Herod is defeated, but slaughters all the infants of Bethlehem in retaliation. Jesus comes to John the Baptist to be baptized.

The sermon explores the symbolic significance of the raven and dove sent from Noah's ark in Genesis 8, contrasting the unclean raven with the clean dove. It highlights the olive leaf as a pivotal sign that the waters of divine wrath have receded, signaling peace and the dawn of a renewed world. The preacher connects this Old Testament narrative to the New Testament by linking the flood waters to Christian baptism and Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River. The descent of the Holy Spirit as a dove at Christ's baptism confirms the end of judgment and the inauguration of a new creation. Ultimately, the message offers hope for believers, pointing toward the ultimate restoration of a new heaven and earth through Jesus Christ.

The sermon emphasizes that believers enter the holiest of holies through the torn flesh and blood of Jesus Christ, rather than through earthly rituals or mere intellectual assent. It argues against a superficial Christianity that keeps God at an arm's length, urging instead for a deep, sanctified relationship characterized by continual grace and obedience. Using personal anecdotes about forgiveness and baptism, the message illustrates how the physical sacrifice of Christ provides access to God's presence and empowers believers to overcome sin and bitterness. The central theme is that true salvation involves both heart and mind, requiring a persistent walk in the Spirit to maintain holiness and love for others.

Read: John 3:16–21; Acts 16:11-15 Text: Lord's Day 7 God will only save those who by true faith share in Christ. 1. Why true faith is necessary 2. What true faith is 3. Where true faith comes from Questions for reflection: 1. What will happen to those who do not embrace Christ in faith? Do you feel a burden to share the hope of the gospel with those who are lost? 2. What is true faith? 3. What do you think is a greater danger: complacency or trying to earn your salvation? Why? 4. Are you excited about the promises God has made to you? In what ways are you building your life on the promises of God? In what areas of your life do you have a hard time appropriating God's promises by faith? 5. Where does the Bible teach that God works faith in the hearts of his people? 6. How does the Holy Spirit work faith in the hearts of his people? Can you share a story how he has done this?