Message Notes

Matt 3:13-14 (NLT) Then Jesus went from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. But John tried to talk him out of it. "I am the one who needs to be baptized by you," he said, "so why are you coming to me?"

Matt 3:5-6 (NLT) People from Jerusalem and from all of Judea and all over the Jordan Valley went out to see and hear John. And when they confessed their sins, he baptized them in the Jordan River.

What Does Water Baptism Represent?

1. A Decision to Obey

Matthew 3:15 (NLT) But Jesus said, "It should be done, for we must carry out all that God requires."

Phil 2:6-8 (NLT) Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross.

Matt 28:18-19 (NLT) "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

2. A Decision to Commit

Matt 3:16-17 (NLT) After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him.

Col 2:12 (NLT) For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead.

3. A Decision to Identify

Matt 3:17 (NIV) And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased."