COMMITTING WITH CEREMONY (November 8, 2009)

Hey Everyone! Just a quick recap of what we discussed this past Sunday in KidzBlast...and parents, this one is especially important for you! We journeyed together through the doctrine of Water Baptism and how this was actually the "true mark" of a New Testament disciple. During the days of the apostles, they went so far as to believe that if you weren't baptized in water, you weren't a true follower of Jesus Christ. Why did they think this "extreme?" Basically because they couldn't imagine a true follower or disciple not "obeying" their Lord's command. Disobedience pretty much communicated you weren't serious about your commitment. The same is true in our day... If God has commanded us to follow His example in water baptism and we disobey and neglect this area of our Christian walk, how serious are we about following God? The Bible is clear in our memory verse for the week which stated: "Repent and be baptized, everyone of you." Acts 2.38 The very first thing we should do following salvation is the ceremony of water baptism; where we publicly say: "I belong to Jesus, and I'm going to follow Him no matter what. I want everyone to know about my commitment to Him."

Kids, you will remember we talked about how water baptism is actually viewed through Christ's death and resurrection. When we are placed under the water, we are leaving our sin and old way of thinking behind (it's dead and buried), and when we come up out of the water we are being raised like Jesus in new life! We are living a new life of obedience to God and what He demands of us!

Water Baptism is so amazing! I loved my experience as a 12 year old. I felt so new...so alive in God! It was definitely one of the greatest moment as a Christian. I want to give you the same opportunity that I had... So on November 29th during the morning service, we are holding a water baptism service. If you have committed to living your life for Jesus and you want the world to know, then talk with your parents and let them know what you're feeling inside. Then talk to me and we will be sure to have you take part in this awesome ceremony with us!

Raising Obedient Christians,
Pastor Carrie