Baptism: A Beautiful Beginning
Eph. 4:4-7

I. THE PURPOSE OF BAPTISM (THE WHY OF BAPTISM)
A. OBEDIENCE TO THE COMMAND (THE CALL TO ACTION)
1. Jesus’ Instruction – Matthew 28:19-20
2. A Response of Faith – Acts 2:38
B. IDENTIFICATION WITH CHRIST (THE CONNECTION WITH THE SAVIOR)
1. Public Declaration – Romans 10:9
2. Symbol of New Life – 2 Corinthians 5:17

II. THE PROCESS OF BAPTISM (THE HOW OF BAPTISM)
A. ENGAGEMENT WITH WATER (THE LIVING WATER EXPERIENCE)
1. Immersion vs. Sprinkling – Romans 6:4
2. The Symbolism of Cleansing – Acts 22:16
B. INVOLVEMENT OF THE COMMUNITY (THE FAMILY OF FAITH)
1. Witness of the Church – 1 Corinthians 12:13
2. Support and Accountability – Hebrews 10:24-25