Sermon Notes

Baptism Sunday | Pastors Maria & Kevin Kringel

In the Water: Baptism & New Life in Christ
Baptism Sunday
Pastor Maria & Pastor Kevin

I. In the Water- Pastor Maria
A. Introduction—Story
  • Kids muddy from playing outside, unaware of dirt.
  • You’ve been working outside, getting dirty and surprised by dirt, sweat, smell, etc., coming off when cleaned.
B. Encountering Jesus & His Sacrifice
  • Shows us how dirty we are and what Jesus did on the cross for us.
  • Romans 3:23 — "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God... justified freely by His grace."
  • Sin = rebellion against God, choosing our way over His.
  • Acts 2:38 — "Repent and be baptized."
C. Have a Funeral for the Old Self
  • Not mourning, but a celebration: “Good riddance, it’s dead!”
  • Baptized into Christ’s death:
  • Romans 6:3 — "Baptized into His death... raised to a new life."
D. Who Died?
  • You Did!
  • Galatians 2:20 — "I have been crucified with Christ..."
  • Your Sinful Nature:
    • Colossians 3:5-10 — Put to death what belongs to your old self.
  • Your Past:
    • Galatians 5:24 — Crucified passions and desires.

II. Pastor Kevin
A. Born Again (John 3:3-7)
  • Jesus: “You must be born again.”
  • Explanation of spiritual rebirth through water and Spirit.
B. In Christ as a New Creation
  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 — "The old has gone, the new has come!"
  • See yourself in Christ in prayer, trouble, temptation, and fellowship.
C. What is New?
  • Like a new baby: brought into a new house, family, culture, language, abilities, hope, promises, and future.
  • Ongoing renewal of:
    • Mind
    • Wills
    • Emotions
    • Habits
  • Romans 12:2 — "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
  • Don’t be surprised if old thoughts, desires, feelings still linger.
  • Don’t feel like a failure; walk in your new life.
  • How to Renew:
    • Replace thoughts with God’s Word (read the Bible).
    • Offer truthful prayers, give God your feelings and desires.
    • Feeling tempted isn’t failure.
    • Reach out for help—your church family is part of this process.

III. Altar Call
  • Surrender to Jesus — for the first time or recommitment.
  • Restore the joy of salvation.
  • Get baptized today!