How can we apply Saul's immediate baptism to our own faith journey? A Scene of Radical Obedience Acts 9:18: “At once something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized.” The former persecutor does not negotiate, delay, or wait for a more convenient moment. The moment sight is restored, he rises and publicly identifies with the very Jesus he had opposed. What Baptism Proclaims • Union with Christ’s death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4) • Cleansing from sin and a fresh start (Acts 22:16) • A decisive break with the old life (Galatians 2:20) • Entrance into visible fellowship with believers (1 Corinthians 12:13) • Obedience to the Lord’s direct command (Matthew 28:19) Baptism does not earn salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9) but testifies that salvation has already been received. Lessons for Our Journey 1. Prompt obedience honors the Lord. When conviction is clear, act—just as Saul did. 2. Baptism is a first step of discipleship, not a graduate course. New believers should pursue it quickly (cf. Acts 2:41; 8:36-38). 3. Public witness strengthens faith. Saul’s baptism was immediately followed by bold preaching (Acts 9:20). 4. Humility is essential. The future apostle allowed an ordinary disciple (Ananias) to guide and baptize him. 5. Spiritual sight leads to visible action. If Christ has opened our eyes, the next logical move is to show it. Taking the Next Step • Examine: Have you trusted Christ personally? If so, baptism is the next biblical marker. • Arrange: Speak with your church leadership about scheduling it soon. • Invite: Use the occasion to share the gospel with family and friends who attend. • Prepare: Review key passages on baptism; write your testimony for the service. • Continue: After baptism, plug into teaching, fellowship, and service to keep growing (Acts 2:42). Scriptures for Further Reflection Matthew 28:19 — “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.” Acts 2:38 — “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.’” Romans 6:3-4 — “Or aren’t you aware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus 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 walk in newness of life.” Galatians 3:27 — “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” Acts 8:36-38 — “As they traveled along the road and came to some water, the eunuch said, ‘Look, here is water! What is there to prevent me from being baptized?’ … and both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and Philip baptized him.” The pattern is clear: when the heart turns to Christ, the body goes to the water—promptly, publicly, and joyfully. |
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