Matthew 28:18-20 (The Message)
Go out and train every one you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the three-fold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I commanded you. I‘ll be with you as you do this, day after day, right up to the end of the age.
While we cling to many church traditions, only a handful are mentioned specifically by Jesus. Baptism is one such guideline. If, at this point, you’d like to enter a theological debate on what style of baptism is the one and only way or if its necessary for salvation, then find another devotional or book. Because we’re focusing on baptism and its role on discipleship. And its clear from Jesus’ charge that it’s a vital piece of the discipleship process. Why? Allow me to illustrate with yet another story.
Last summer, my wife and I headed back to my hometown to visit friends, get some rest, and attend an FC Dallas soccer match. While there, we stayed with Randall and Sandra, close friends who have been a constant encouragement to me along the recovery and discipleship process. This only continued as we attended church with them one Sunday morning, a service solely devoted to baptisms. From past experiences in church, baptisms were these traditional, almost solemn happenings occurring at the end of a long service when everyone was ready to go home and only clapped out of obligation. But that morning, the people being baptized were brought out and handed a microphone to share their story. And they did, some shaking the entire time and some already emboldened by the Holy Spirit. Flanking them was a friend, family member, or pastor who was there not only to support them, but to dunk them into the water. Upon emerging from the water, the congregation would clap and shout with vigor. And for longer than a few seconds. It was like a heavenly party, an event of deep spiritual importance, another notch in the discipleship process, a public profession and celebration of Jesus Christ.
Wiping away tears, I pulled myself together long enough to grasp the eternal significance here. The believers being baptized that day were the result of the grace of Jesus Christ and the toil of a person (or most likely, many people) who followed the Great Commission and poured themselves into others. You know the sacrifices of being a follower of Jesus, here is one of the many rewards- reaping a harvest of disciples. As always, Jesus knew what he was doing. By building disciples, we’re actually building our spiritual selves as well. And the beauty of God’s love comes full circle once again. From being buried with Christ in baptism and risen to a newness of life!
Disciple on…
