Saturday, July 10, 2010

Baptism 08: Baptism as Forgiveness of Sin and new life


 The Bible beautifully describes baptism as a moment of forgiveness and a fresh start.  Imagine the burden of sin lifting from your shoulders, replaced by the incredible peace of God's forgiveness (Acts 2:38).  This forgiveness allows us to be reconciled with God, no longer separated by our wrongdoings.


This reconciliation is made possible by Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. Through the Holy Spirit's work in our lives, we experience the reality of that sacrifice.  In baptism, we respond by confessing and repenting of our sins, and by affirming our faith that Jesus has already accomplished everything we need for salvation.  Our faith is the key, and baptism is the public declaration of that faith.


God's forgiveness opens the door to a complete transformation.  Baptism becomes the sign of a new spiritual life, where we become "new creations" in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).  It's like shedding our old life, dominated by sin, and embracing a new life empowered by Christ.


Think of baptism as the gateway to this new life in Christ (John 3:5, Titus 3:5).  This "new birth" experience may not always happen at the exact moment of baptism.  Our understanding and acceptance of Christ's redemption and our new life in Him may deepen over time.  But no matter when this realization dawns, it fulfills the promises God made to us at our baptism.


Here's the beautiful thing: baptism is open to everyone, regardless of age or background.  If you're feeling burdened by sin or longing for a fresh start, baptism might be the answer you've been seeking.

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