Baptism

Jesus commanded us.

 

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20
 
Baptism is one of the basic sacraments that Jesus commanded us to do.  And he did it too, as an example.  Baptism means “immersion” – it was a believer’s baptism in the Bible.  So you need to do it too.
 
I was just reading John Ortberg on this:
 
“If you would say that you’re a Christian, but you have never been baptized, and you have no plans to do so—then, in a way, what you are saying to Jesus is:

Jesus, I know You suffered for me. I know You died an agonizing death on the cross for me. I understand You clearly commanded that all of your followers are to be baptized as a way of declaration of devotion and being part of your community. And Jesus, I will take Your sacrifice to get into Heaven, but when it comes to obeying You in the very first step of the Christian life … when it comes to declaring to the church and the world that my ultimate devotion is to You … I think I’ll take a pass. When it comes to the first thing You’ve asked me to do … to obey You in the sacrament of baptism … I think I’ll disobey You.

This is not a good way to launch into spiritual life. It’s not a good dynamic to hold onto in spiritual life.”

Seriously!  He just asked you to get wet.  He didn’t ask you to jump off a tall building or become a Cubs fan.  He just asked you to – one time – give yourself in submission to him in baptism.

Submission to Submersion.  It’s pretty simple. If you haven’t done it yet, neither have a lot of people and they are going to do it this weekend.  We’ve rented two extra portable baptisteries and we’re going to baptize anyone who wants to do it during the end of the service and afterwards.  Bring extra clothes – or don’t.  You can go home wet.  People in other countries die for their faith.  Baptism for them means they may lose their family and their livelihood.  You just have to get wet.  Even if you have done it – you won’t’ want to miss this weekend.  It’s going to be unbelievable!
 
Be here on time – the service is shorter and I’m preaching early. Don’t miss it.
 
Baptism Information for Lockport

Baptism Information for Orland Park
 
This place is unbelievable!

Tim

Comments

[Josh]

Just to add to what John Ortberg said, Jesus also said "if you love me you will keep my commandments." So if you're not willing to obey the first commandment He gives, do you really love Him? Is that really saving faith?

[Josh]

That was incredible! We should open up the baptismal at the end of every service for anyone that is being led. Great job Tim!

Now we all need a good sermon on First John :)

[Pamela]

Today was nothing short of awesome! Over the years, my husband and I have delved deeply in the scriptures to share the heart of the scriptures regarding baptism. The Holy Spirit worked through you and the Parkview ministry powerfully. I hugged so many today, I held so many in tears today. When the church was ushered in at Pentecost in Acts 2, this had to have been what it felt like. As we have studied with many making their decision to follow Christ, witnessing a movement of the Spirit like today is not only life-changing, but an unforgettable demonstration of the Lord's power! We are so happy and grateful!

To Him be the glory!
Pamela

[Lauren]

Were pictures taken? My boyfriend and I really wanted pictures of it because we didn't plan on doing it today, God just kind of called for us today so our family wasn't there to see it.

[Christina R.]

I have wanted so badly to be baptized...and yet, there is this fear in me. Or should I say a feeling of unworthiness. I KNOW Jesus died to save me... but this feeling I walk around with day to day..this feeling of ruining a person's life to save myself...I can't let go of this feeling that I deserve to be punished. God saved my brother from this earth and brought him home so my brother would no longer be in pain...a pain I directly caused. So many times, I have come close to becoming baptized...but this overwhelming feeling of disgrace takes over. This feeling of not quite yet being worthy.....I don't deserve baptism.
I am on facebook and read everyone's comments about Saturday's service. As excited as I got thinking that maybe I to can finally get closer to our Lord...well, I awoke Sunday with such a fear of not being worthy that I avoided service althougher.

I wish I had the strength to take that step that I see so many have. I long for that day where I will no longer walk with shame and guilt.
Oneday,
Christina

[Mike]

Christina

We all carry some guilt for something but we must remember that Forgiveness is God's Gift to us.

"Do not let the devil burden you with, what God has forgiven you"

[Bobbie]

Christina
1 John 1:9 says "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from ALL unrighteousness." This was written to CHRISTIANS, not the unsaved. If you have asked Jesus to forgive you, you have been forgiven. You no longer condemed. If Gods word says you are forgiven, then you are!! Satan is the father of lies and he is the one who is telling you that you are not worthy. You need to speak out this scriptue and tell Satan to get lost.

[Paula]

Christina,
I know how you feel. When I first started coming to Parkview it was the hardest thing I ever did to walk through the door sometimes, and there were times I didn't. But I want you to know that you should and when you do, we are there for you. Call the office and ask to speak to one of our Pastors. We are Praying for you and we love you. JESUS Loves you the Most and the BEST and HE will never leave you or forsake you no matter WHAT has happened in your life. GOD BLESS YOU :)

[Christina R.]

Thank you all for your kind words.

[Amy]

Lauren - There is a video of the baptisms on the Parkview website under Media Center/ Why Baptism. You may be on it.

[Jampaternost]

I just wanted to comment on how BEAUTIFUL Sunday was I was so moved with the Holy Spirit, it was sooooo amazing, I didn't want to leave. God was seriously having a party in heaven on those two days!!! Tim, he is saying great job my good and faithful servant, I'm sure of it. You are showing people that having a relationship with Jesus is sooooo cool and hip!!!!! Keep up the good work:)