In what ways can we cultivate a heart ready for baptism like the Ethiopian? Seeking Understanding • Acts 8:28–31 shows the Ethiopian reading Isaiah yet admitting, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” A teachable spirit seeks clarity, not self-confidence. • Romans 10:17—“So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Time in Scripture, sermons, and solid study materials tills the soil of the heart. • Psalm 119:18—“Open my eyes that I may behold wondrous things from Your law.” Pray this verse before every reading. Embracing Humility and Teachability • James 1:21—“Humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save your souls.” Pride resists conviction; humility welcomes it. • Consider fasting or setting aside media noise to quiet the soul (Psalm 131:2). A stilled heart hears God’s whisper. Opening the Scriptures • Philip “began with this Scripture” (Acts 8:35) and traced Christ through Isaiah 53. • Luke 24:27—Jesus did the same on the Emmaus road. • Practical steps: – Read the Old Testament looking for foreshadows of Christ. – Keep a journal of gospel connections that stir the heart. – Memorize key passages on salvation (John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9). Receiving the Gospel Personally • Acts 8:35 declares “the good news about Jesus.” The Ethiopian moved from curiosity to personal trust. • John 1:12—“To all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” • Reflect on the cross and resurrection until it feels addressed to you, not just humanity in general. Confessing Christ Boldly • Acts 8:37 (in many manuscripts) records, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God” (BSB footnote). • Romans 10:9—“If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” • Speak your faith aloud—in worship, to friends, in daily conversation—to strengthen resolve. Responding in Immediate Obedience • “Look, there is water! What is there to prevent me from being baptized?” (Acts 8:36). A ready heart acts at once. • Acts 2:41—those who accepted the message “were baptized, and about three thousand were added.” • Do what you already know: forgive, reconcile, give generously. Quick obedience in small things prepares for the larger step of baptism. Resting in the Finished Work • Colossians 2:12—“Having been buried with Him in baptism… you were also raised with Him through your faith in the power of God.” • Baptism symbolizes union with Christ’s completed work; cultivate assurance, not anxiety. • Sing hymns that celebrate grace (“Nothing but the Blood,” “In Christ Alone”) to keep the focus on what Christ has done, not what you do. Living the New Joy • Acts 8:39—“He went on his way rejoicing.” Post-baptism joy begins beforehand as anticipation. • 1 Peter 1:8—“You rejoice with an inexpressible and glorious joy.” • Serve others, share testimony, and engage in fellowship; joy multiplies in community. |
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