A New Life In Christ Series

Through Baptism sacred act, we die to our old selves and rise with Christ to walk in newness of life.

Baptism marks a decisive turning point in our journey of faith. It's a public declaration that we have surrendered our lives to Jesus, and His grace has washed away our sins. As we emerge from the waters, we leave behind the old and embrace the new.

So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. Galatians 3:26-27

Peter replied, “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.”Acts 2:38

This new life in Christ is characterized by a renewed mind, a heart of love, and a spirit of obedience. We are no longer bound by the chains of sin but empowered by the Holy Spirit to live for God.

As we walk in this new life, we are called to lay aside the old self and put on the new self, created in God's likeness. We are to live a life worthy of the Gospel, bearing fruit for God and shining His light in a dark world.

As new creations in Christ, we begin our spiritual journey as babes in Christ, with new potential for living. However, this new life also comes with challenges. Satan targets us when we are most vulnerable, seeking to cause us to fall. But God provides us with the tools to overcome.

As we have been baptized into new life in Christ, we are called to live out our faith in tangible ways. Today, we explore four essential practices to nurture our relationship with God and grow in our faith.

As we grow, we must be mindful of the possibility of falling, hardened by the deceit of sin. We must remain vigilant, trusting God to help us through temptations.

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

For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 1 Corihians 12:13nt

First, we must put God first by loving Him with all our being and seeking His kingdom and righteousness above all else. This means prioritizing our time, talents, and resources to honor Him.

Second, we are encouraged to study God's Word with a hungry heart, like an infant craving milk. The Word of God is our guide for life, and the Bereans' example challenges us to receive it with meekness and a willingness to learn.

Third, we are exhorted to be fervent in prayer, approaching God's throne with confidence and thanksgiving. Prayer is our lifeline to God, bringing wonderful blessings and strengthening our faith.

Fourth, we are reminded to be diligent in assembling together as believers, fostering fellowship, prayer, and remembrance of Christ's sacrifice. Neglecting this sacred gathering can indicate spiritual stagnation.

Lastly, we are called to help save others, making disciples as we go, and sharing the Good News with those around us. Our enthusiasm for soul-saving is a reflection of our own spiritual health.

As examples of those who believe, our lives should reflect Christ's teachings, both in deed and word. Others should be able to look to us as a model for living for Christ.

Let us embrace our new life in Christ, trusting in His power to help us overcome the challenges we face. May we grow in our faith and be shining examples of His love and grace. Let us rejoice in the new life we have received through baptism. May these practices become integral to our daily lives as we strive to live out our new life in Christ. May we grow in our love for God and our love for others, bearing fruit for His kingdom. May we continue to grow in our faith, and may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of Christ's love. Amen