Suggested Opening Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we gather together as a group seeking Your wisdom, Your revelation. We might be in different places in our relationship with You. Some of us, baptism was a decision we made, for others, the decision was made for us, and yet others may be struggling whether to make that decision. Thank You for loving and accepting us exactly where we are and drawing us closer to You. Speak to us through Your word, this message, and our time together.
In Jesus Name-- Amen.
- Read the passage together from Mark 1:4-11 Prepare to discuss what jumped out to you in this passage and/or the message.
- John came preaching a message of baptism in repentance for the forgiveness of sins. From Matthew 3: 13-17, -what was his reaction when Jesus came to him for baptism and why?
- Did you discover anything new in how you viewed Jesus' choice to be baptized?
- Focus on verses 10-11 of Jesus' baptism--and the phrase "heaven being torn open"
- The word for "torn" was used one other place in Scripture, at Jesus' crucifixion, regarding the curtain in the Holy of Holies. Discuss what connection there is with these two incidents.
Based on the weekend message, how would you explain our view of baptism to someone who asks you, or any of the other Baptism FAQ's:?
- Why we don't baptize babies?
- Why we only do it once a year?
- Discuss the wedding ring analogy as it applies to baptism.
"The baptismal waters should splash on every area of our lives but even after we're out of the water, we're never really dry."
Ben Horseman
Read
Mark 1:4-11
Matthew 3:13-17
Titus 3:5
Acts 8:12
Acts 18:8
Reflect
If you have been baptized, take some time to remember and share your experience.
Why did you get baptized?
If you have not been baptized, how have you been pondering this next step of faith?
What, if anything has held you back?
Do
This week, if you've been baptized, ponder how the baptismal waters still symbolically splash into every area of your life.
If you've not been baptized, consider if this is your next step of faith.
If you have questions, find a trusted friend, a group member or a pastor to talk with.