The Gathering Baptism

The Gathering, Student Leader Lesson Check In Ask the group what has been going on in their week? Introduction Tonight we are going to talk about baptism. It’s kind of a basic act of obedience but sometimes it can be misunderstood or a little confusing. Baptism Why do you think God want us to be baptized? Let the group share their response. Let’s look at reasons the Bible gives. 1. It's the first act of Obedience to God after salvation. Matt 3:13-17 2. We follow Jesus' example. Jesus submitted himself to his father before he began his public ministry. Mark 1:9-11 3. We set the example for other belivers. Baptism is us saying publicly that we are Christ followers. Who do you think should be baptized? Let the group share. Maybe ask, “Who shouldn’t get baptized and why?” Anyone who has made a commitment to Christ should be baptized. Baptism doesn't get you to heaven. It's just a picture to others of what Christ did for you. Acts 8:12, Acts 18:8 What is the way to be baptized? We follow Jesus' method of baptism. Matt 3:16 - says he came up out of the water. Baptism is a picture of death, burial, and resurrection. The only way to bury someone is to put them completely under ground. The biblical method of baptism is complete immersion in the water. What if I was baptized as a baby? If you were baptized as a baby that was your parents decision to dedicate you to God. But biblical baptism should be your decision as a believer to be obedient to God. you are completing what your parents desired for you years ago. Close in prayer and recommend that if anyone has any other questions or wants to talk about getting baptized to see Chad.