Today, at Emmaus Road Church, Pastor Beau Floyd opened up the discussion at our assembly with this question:  What is baptism?

I enjoyed immensely watching Jeff Cale take the microphone and share his testimony of God’s grace in his life.  Two and a half weeks ago, he was released from the Bonneville County Jail.  

In the main sermon, Beau preached Matthew 3:13-17, bringing to light and expounding on four thoughts:

1. John’s humility (v. 14)
2. All righteousness (v. 15)
3. A glimpse of the Trinity (vv. 16-17)
4. Empowerment of the Spirit (connecting chapter 4)

In point #2, Beau expanded thoroughly on the long debated theological question, “Why did Jesus get baptized?”  He summarized with a three-fold answer, especially emphasizing letter b: (a) Jesus identifies with us, (b) Jesus points toward His death, and (c) Jesus gives us an example.

My questions related to the text . . .

Observation (Questions for the head)

1. Jesus came from where to see John at what place?
2. What did John ask Jesus?
3. What was Jesus’ answer to John?
4. What happened at Jesus’ baptism?
5. What did the voice from heaven say?

Interpretation (Questions for the head and heart)

1. What does this mean when Jesus said, “It is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness?” How would you teach this from the Old Testament?
2. How does John the Baptist distinguish himself as different than Jesus?
3. What does baptism signify?
4. Does water baptism earn spiritual new birth for you?  Or do you believe that a spiritual new birth fuels your motivation to be water baptized?
5. What do you believe is the proper mode for water baptism?
6. Who do you think has the proper authority to baptize?
7. How would you explain the Spirit of God?
8. Is the Sonship of Jesus uniquely different from you being a child of God?
9. Do you believe that this “beloved Son” is God?  Why or why not?

Application (Questions for the heart and hands)

1. John sets for us an example of humility in our service for Jesus.  How might we be tempted to exhibit a self-righteous pride?
2. If we compare ourselves to others in our city, we might think we are better than them.  But what happens when we compare ourselves to Jesus?
3. How can you be more Jesus-centered today and not self-centered?
4. How is the Father well pleased with His Son?  How is He pleased with you?
5. If you believe that Jesus is God and King, how will that impact you on the job this week?
6. Will you follow Jesus in His death, burial, and resurrection?  Have you been baptized?  Would you like to share the story of your baptism with us?
7. Who might you encourage to be baptized this summer in the Snake River?