Baptism Sunday - March 2023

Follow Along with the Message

1. Doing Life

As a church family, we care about each other’s lives: what we’re celebrating, what we’re mourning, what decisions we are praying through, and everything in between 

(1 Thessalonians 2:8, Romans 12:10, 15). Suggested time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing? 
• What can you thank God for this week?
• When were you most aware of Jesus’ presence this week? When were you least aware of Jesus’ presence this week?
• Do you have any practical needs?

2. Jesus Centered

God uses His Word to reveal Himself to us, equip us to live the good life He’s designed for us, show us our sin, and strengthen us as we follow Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Colossians 1:9-12, and James 1:22-25). Suggested Time: 20-40 minutes 

(Sermon Discussion Questions) 

Baptism and the “Right Here – Right Now”

Primary Scripture Passage:  Philippians 1: 12-18 / Acts 16: 25-34 / Romans 6: 1-1

1. Describe a time when you had a “How did I get here?” moment in your life?
2. Reading Philippians 1: 12-18 in light of the plans shared by Paul in Romans 15:24, what do you observe about Paul’s decision to live in the “Now” rather than in the “When/Then”?
3. Read John 14:20 and then discuss how our initial step of faith in Jesus is only the beginning of building a            deep and intimate relationship with Him.
4. In light of Jesus’ words in John 15:4, what would our lives look like if we fail to pursue making our lives intertwined, merged, and completely integrated with Him?
5. What “Right Here – Right Now” actions taken by Paul and Silas in Acts 16: 16-24; and 25-34 led to the circumstances by which the jailer guarding them made the decision to seek salvation in Jesus and then be immediately along with his family?
6. When Phil closed the service with a corporate reading of Romans 6: 1-14, why do you think he referred to this passage as our “spiritual emancipation proclamation”?

    3. Engaging the Heart

Jesus calls us to walk in the light, confessing our sins to God and each other. God’s Spirit works through confession and community to lead us to repentance. (Romans 3:23-24, James 5:16 and 1 John 1:5-10) Suggested Time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing abiding with Jesus this week in Scripture and prayer? 
• What sin do you need to confess to God? What are you struggling to trust Jesus with this week? How can you give Him control of it? (As people confess sin, make sure to remind one another of the good news Jesus offers.)

4. Expanding the Kingdom

Just like God the Father sent Jesus on a mission of reconciliation for us, Jesus sends us out as ambassadors of His reconciliation. We are called to make disciples wherever we go. (John 20:21 and 2 Corinthians 5:18-20) Suggested time: 10-20 minutes

• People: Who in your life can you be building with right now? What does that look like during this season? 
• Plan: Are there any rhythms planned (virtual or in-person) that we can invite these friends into? What spiritual conversations do you want to initiate with them soon? 
• Pray: Let’s pray for our people by name; pray for their needs, opportunities to connect, and opportunities to have spiritual conversations that help them take next steps toward Jesus.