Identifying with Christ - The Ordinances of the Church
About This Sermon
Pastor Steven Morris teaches that baptism and the Lord's Supper are the two ordinances Jesus gave His church so believers can publicly identify with Him. Baptism is a believer's first public profession of faith, picturing Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. It is commanded by Jesus, practiced by immersion, and is an outward sign of an inward change, not a means of salvation. Through testimonies from Claudia and David, we see how obedience in baptism strengthens faith and blesses the church family. The Lord's Supper then keeps believers identifying with Christ, remembering His sacrifice, receiving spiritual nourishment, affirming unity, examining relationships, and looking forward to His return.
Scripture: Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:41; Acts 8:12; Acts 10:44-48; Acts 16:32-34; Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21
Study Guide
A few ideas to carry with you, discuss with your group, or revisit during the week.
Practical Takeaways (5)
- Baptism and the Lord's Supper are Jesus-ordained ways believers identify with Christ publicly.
- Baptism is for believers only, by immersion, as a picture of union with Christ in His death and resurrection.
- Baptism does not save; salvation is by grace through faith in Christ alone.
- Three reasons to be baptized: obedience to Christ, personal spiritual blessing, and blessing the church family.
- The Lord's Supper is for continuing identification with Christ, remembering His sacrifice and looking forward to His return.
Discussion Questions (5)
- What does Jesus's command in Matthew 28:18-20 show us about the place of baptism in the Christian life?
- Why is it important that baptism follows belief rather than precedes it?
- What difference does it make that baptism is an outward sign of an inward change rather than a means of salvation?
- How can celebrating baptisms strengthen our faith and our church family?
- What does it look like to examine your heart and relationships before taking the Lord's Supper?
