In the last few days, we've learned about God's three-in-one nature—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and how God lives in us today through the Holy Spirit. Today, we'll read another story from the Bible with all three parts of the Trinity.
The main topic we're exploring today is baptism. Baptism is a public way Jesus followers declare their decision to follow Jesus. A pastor or trusted friend stands with you in a pool (or other body of water) and helps you lean back into the water and come right back up and out.
But why go underwater? It's a symbol representing Jesus' death, resurrection, and new life through Him.
- Leaning back under the water symbolizes your sins being washed away through Jesus' death.
- Being raised out of the water is a picture of being brought back to a new life, like Jesus was raised back to life.
This public declaration of our new life with Jesus is similar to the way Jesus Himself was baptized.
Now, reread the story and imagine yourself as the person being baptized by John. What's the water like? How does it feel to hear God's approval? What does God's voice say to you specifically? How do you notice the Holy Spirit's presence?
At the end of Jesus' time on Earth, He gathered His followers together and shared this mission:
When you've said yes to Jesus' way of life, baptism is one of the next steps you're invited to take. Remember, it's a public declaration that says to the world, “I have decided to follow Jesus!”
Pause to Consider
Have you been baptized? What would it be like for you to take this next step of following Jesus? What questions do you still have about baptism?
Follow Along in the App
Read this exact day inside the free YouVersion Bible App, with your own highlights and reminders — via the official “You Said Yes” reading plan.