Acts 19: Immersed

Finding True Life Change Through Immersion in Christ

When we think about baptism, we often focus on the physical act of immersion in water. But baptism represents something much deeper - a permanent change that happens when we are immersed in Christ.

What Does Baptism Really Mean?

The Greek word "baptizo" gives us important insight into what baptism truly means. A Greek historian's pickle recipe helps us understand this concept. In the recipe, vegetables are first dipped (bapto) in boiling water temporarily, but then baptized (baptizo) in vinegar solution, which produces a permanent change.

This illustrates an important truth: baptism isn't just about getting wet - it's about being transformed. When we baptize someone, we believe a permanent spiritual change occurs. As Romans 6:3-4 tells us:

"Don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 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 have new life."

Is Baptism Just About Salvation?

When we focus solely on the question "At what point was someone saved?" we can miss the deeper message of what God wants to do in our lives. The gospel offers so much more than just guilt remission or a ticket to heaven.

God wants to create such a drastic change in us that:

1. We get a new name

2. We receive a new purpose

3. People can "smell Jesus" on us

When we truly meet Jesus, we can't go back to our old ways. It would be like being cured of cancer and then asking for the cancer back. True immersion in Christ creates in us a desire for freedom and new life that makes our old life unappealing.

What Does Jesus Really Offer Us?

In John 3, Jesus talks about being "born again" and entering the "kingdom of God." He's not just talking about going to heaven someday - He's talking about a new life that begins now.

Jesus offers us the chance to:

1. Shed our old life

2. Be made new

3. Be freed from destructive patterns

4. Experience eternal life beginning now

When Paul baptized the twelve disciples in Acts 19, he wasn't just baptizing them to save them from hell. He was baptizing them because he knew that through the power of the Spirit, they would be made new. Their lives would be so changed that they would go on to share this gift with others, who would then share it with more people.

What Are You Immersing Yourself In?

Here's a simple truth: what we immerse ourselves in will change us. We become like the things we immerse ourselves in.

Ask yourself:

1. What am I immersing my life, time, and energy in?

2. Where do I go when I'm sad or tired?

3. What do I turn to when I have a bad day?

These questions reveal what we're truly immersed in. Jesus offers to be the one who makes the best change in us.

One man shared how he had immersed himself in video game culture as a young husband and father. He had money and few responsibilities, so he poured himself into games. When he felt like he couldn't win in life, he would escape to video games to feel successful.

One day, he realized he didn't like what he saw in his life, despite being a believer who had been baptized and was even in full-time ministry. Jesus spoke to him: "Abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branch. I will give you everything you're looking for."

He sold all his video games and immersed himself in Christ instead. The result? He became a better father, husband, and pastor because he stopped yoking himself to worldly things and immersed himself in Christ.

How Do We Immerse Ourselves in Christ?

Immersing ourselves in Christ requires:

1. Faith - believing in Jesus

2. Repentance - turning away from sin

3. Baptism - dying to self and rising to new life

4. Receiving the Holy Spirit - gaining power for change

5. Daily immersion - continuing to abide in Christ

This isn't about trying harder to be better. It's about relying on Jesus through faith, repentance, and the power of the Holy Spirit. As Titus 3:4-5 reminds us:

"When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing and rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit."

How Can We Help Each Other Stay Immersed?

We weren't meant to walk this journey alone. We need each other to stay immersed in Christ:

1. Join a small group where you can be honest about your struggles

2. Find accountability partners who will help you repent

3. Immerse yourself in God's Word daily

4. Use reading plans to stay consistent

One person shared how they were struggling with their faith and wondering if God was really there. Before they could meet with a pastor, they talked with their small group, who helped them through their doubts. That's the power of community!

Life Application

The invitation is clear: immerse yourself in Christ daily, not just in a one-time baptism experience. Jesus offers real change, freedom from sin, and a new life - but it requires ongoing immersion.

This week, ask yourself:

1. What am I currently immersing myself in that might be keeping me from experiencing the change God wants for me?

2. How can I intentionally immerse myself in Christ through His Word, prayer, and community?

3. Is there an area of my life where I need to repent and turn back to God?

4. Who can I invite to walk alongside me in this journey of immersion?

Remember, what we immerse ourselves in will change us. Choose to be immersed in Christ, and watch how He transforms you from the inside out.

You Asked For: Are There Different Severities of Sin?

Understanding God's Perspective on Sin and Life

Life through Jesus offers something far greater than what our old life of sin and death could provide. While we may sometimes feel pulled back toward old habits and desires, they ultimately leave us empty and unfulfilled compared to the joy and peace found in Christ.

Can God Create a Rock So Big He Can't Lift It?

This question attempts to create a paradox to disprove God's unlimited nature. However, the question itself is flawed because it tries to put limits on a limitless God. Scripture tells us that "with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26) and that His understanding has no limits (Psalm 147:5).

To illustrate the difference between a million and a billion, we talked about in terms we might understand. A million seconds works out to a little over 11 days. A billion seconds is….over 30 years! And a trillion seconds? It would take 1,000 generations to experience 1 trillion seconds. Our human minds struggle to comprehend true infinity - whether in terms of space, time, or power. The vastness of the universe, with its billions of galaxies, gives us just a glimpse of God's unlimited nature. He exists outside of our limited understanding of time and space. This perspective on God set’s up our next question.

Are There Different Levels of Sin?

From our human perspective, we often try to categorize sins as "worse" or "better." However, God's perspective is different. Romans 6:23 tells us "the wages of sin is death" - all sin leads to death and separation from God. While there may be different earthly consequences for various sins, God's primary concern is whether we are spiritually dead in sin or alive in Christ.

How Do We Receive New Life?

The path to life comes through:

1. Faith in Jesus Christ

2. Believing in His death and resurrection

3. Accepting His gift of righteousness

4. Being justified through faith

5. Experiencing baptism as a symbol of dying to sin and rising to new life

Life Application

This week, instead of comparing sins or trying to justify behavior, focus on this core question: Are you living in death or in life? Consider:

1. Do you truly believe Jesus loves you and offers new life?

2. Are you still finding satisfaction in things that lead to death?

3. What areas of your life need to be surrendered to experience more of Christ's life?

4. How can you pursue things that lead to life rather than death?

The challenge is to stop playing the comparison game with sin and instead embrace the new life Jesus offers - a life that finds no satisfaction in the empty promises of sin but finds complete fulfillment in Christ. We spent a lot of time in Romans this week. It’s so full of this language and helps us understand how we move from dead to sin to alive in Christ. Take some time this week to read Romans.

Gospeler: What's Next?

Introduction

Welcome to Hope Summit! Today, we delve into the final sermon of our series, "The Gospeler." This series has explored the essence of the Gospel and its transformative power. As we wrap up, we focus on the responses to the Gospel, the importance of community, and the continuous journey of renewing our minds. Let's dive in and explore these themes in detail.

What Does It Mean to Say Yes to Jesus?

The Call to Repentance and Baptism

In Acts 2:36-38, Peter addresses the crowd, convicting them of their role in Jesus' crucifixion. The people, cut to the heart, ask, "What shall we do?" Peter's response is clear: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."

This passage highlights the initial steps of becoming a Christian: repentance and baptism. It's a humbling experience, allowing us to participate in God's kingdom despite our imperfections.

The Privilege of Baptism

Baptism is a profound act of faith, symbolizing the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life in Christ. It's a privilege to baptize others, participating in their spiritual journey. If you ever get the chance, seek guidance from someone experienced to ensure the process is meaningful and respectful.

The Role of Community in a Christian's Life

The Early Church Model

Acts 2:42-47 paints a picture of the early church, a community devoted to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. They shared everything, supported each other, and grew in numbers daily. This model emphasizes the importance of being part of a church community, where we can grow, support one another, and experience God's love collectively.

The Importance of Small Groups

Small groups play a crucial role in personal spiritual growth. They provide a space for deeper conversations, accountability, and support. Many life-changing moments happen in these intimate settings, where we can learn from each other and grow together in faith.

Renewing Our Minds: A Continuous Journey

Living Sacrifices

Romans 12:1-2 urges us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This involves not conforming to the patterns of this world but being transformed by the renewing of our minds. This transformation allows us to discern God's will, which is good, pleasing, and perfect.

Practical Steps for Renewal

1. **Reading the Word**: Engaging with the Bible regularly helps us understand God's will and challenges us to grow.

2. **Being with Others**: Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers provides support, accountability, and practical examples of living out our faith.

Overcoming Sin and Living a New Life

The Danger of Habitual Sin

Romans 6:1-4 reminds us that we are called to live a new life, free from the bondage of sin. Habitual sin, or a lifestyle of sin, is dangerous and provides a foothold for Satan. It's crucial to seek help and accountability to overcome these struggles.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

1 John 2:1-2 assures us that we have an advocate in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit guides, convicts, and empowers us to live righteously. Even when we fail, God's grace is sufficient, and the Holy Spirit continues to work in us.

Life Application

Embrace Community

This week, make an effort to engage more deeply with your church community. Join a small group, attend a fellowship event, or simply spend more time with fellow believers. These relationships are vital for your spiritual growth and support.

Renew Your Mind

Commit to daily Bible reading and prayer. Reflect on areas where you need transformation and ask God to renew your mind. Consider journaling your thoughts and prayers to track your progress and stay accountable.

Overcome Sin

Identify any habitual sins in your life and seek help. Talk to a trusted friend, pastor, or counselor. Remember, you are not alone, and there is no shame in seeking help. God's grace is available, and the Holy Spirit is your advocate.

Questions for Reflection

1. **Community**: How can I engage more deeply with my church community this week?

2. **Renewal**: What areas of my life need transformation? How can I commit to renewing my mind daily?

3. **Overcoming Sin**: Are there habitual sins I need to address? Who can I reach out to for support and accountability?

Conclusion

As we conclude this series on the Gospel, remember that saying "yes" to Jesus is just the beginning. Embrace the journey of faith, engage with your community, continuously renew your mind, and seek to overcome sin. God's grace is abundant, and the Holy Spirit is with you every step of the way. Let's live out our faith boldly and support one another in this incredible journey.