New Life

We had the great priviledge of being part of a baptism last Sunday. Our life group baptized our friend Noel (pictured here with her daughter). We gathered around a hot tub in some friends' backyard and watched as Noel professed faith in Jesus as her savior and friend.

Bobby spoke to our group about what baptism represents.
1. It represents an internal reality. When Jesus touches our heart and mind with the truth of who he is and we welcome him into our life to take control, there is a radical change. We essentially die to an old life, that would ultimately lead to death, and exchange it for a new life that leads to abundant joy. This dying and coming back to life is symbolized in baptism.

2. It represents faith in a spiritual reality. Baptism is also a picture of what Jesus accomplished while here on earth. He was put to death, even though he was blameless, and then raised from the dead by the power of God. He bore our punishment so that we could escape death.

3. It also represents a future reality. Jesus has been seated at the right hand of the Father in Heaven. We know that those who follow Jesus will be raised to eternal life with HIM.

Noel, we are so greatful for the chance to know you and to see God working in your heart. We pray that He will give you wisdom and revelation so that you may know him better. We pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms. (eph 1:17-19)

--t