Baptism is the universal act of induction into the Christian family. It demonstrates birth into the family of God. It is incorporation into the Body of Christ, the church. It is a declaration of Jesus’ resurrection and of our own. But let us not forget that it is also an initiation into a life of following Christ and pouring out our lives in Christian service. This death to sin and self is so that we can walk in a new life of service to others. Live out your baptism!
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life….You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.” Romans 6:4, 18 (NIV)
(You are reading from the book “The Master’s Table”, by H. Lamar Smith.)
