The Meaning of Baptism: A Lifelong Journey (Luke 3:15-17, 21-22) 01.12.2025
- Pastor Jin
- Jan 12
- 3 min read
The cold of this winter has been particularly harsh, making it one of the coldest in years. As we endure the freezing temperatures, my sincere hope is that the warmth of God’s love and peace fills our lives throughout 2025.
Baptism is one of the most significant moments in a Christian’s life. Yet, for many of us
baptized as infants, it is a moment we cannot recall. Parents may share stories about their children's baptisms, describing the pastor, the touch of water, and their child's reactions, but the experience itself often remains a mystery. This raises an intriguing question: What did God say to us at that moment?
When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him, and a voice from heaven
proclaimed, "You are my beloved Son." This declaration leads us to wonder what God says to each of us in our baptisms. Although we may not remember the moment, baptism is an event of eternal significance.
My own reflections on baptism were shaped by various experiences, including Confirmation and a second baptism encouraged by a Baptist missionary. Growing up, I imagined baptism as a moment when the Holy Spirit would visibly appear and speak directly to me. However, each time, I was left with the realization that baptism is not about receiving a dramatic sign, but rather about faith and transformation.
The Daily Renewal of Baptism
What does baptism truly mean? Many of us may have sought a special experience or
expected God to grant us something extraordinary through baptism. Often, our faith takes the form of bargaining: "God, if You do this for me, I will serve You diligently." However, true faith does not rely on conditional promises; it is about surrendering to God's will. For Martin Luther, baptism symbolized the "death of sin." However, when we examine our lives, sin seems very much alive. This is why Luther emphasized that baptism is not just a past event but a daily commitment. He taught that "sin must die every day," urging believers to continually live in the renewal of baptism.
The Apostle Paul echoes this in 1 Corinthians 15:31, saying, "I die daily." Baptism signifies the death of our old selves and our rebirth in Christ. This daily renewal calls us to deny ourselves and live for God, embracing the lifelong spiritual journey of sanctification.
Living as Baptized Children of God
Are we living as those who have been baptized? Do we strive each day to let go of sin and embrace God's will? This spiritual battle continues throughout our lives, but God’s grace sustains us. Through baptism, we are claimed as God's beloved children, and He remains faithful even when we fall short. Let us commit to remembering our baptism daily—not merely as a past event but as an ongoing transformation. May we strive to “die daily” to sin, walk in the renewal of the Holy Spirit, and confidently live as God’s children until we are fully united with Him in eternity.
A Prayer for Baptismal Renewal
Gracious and loving God,
We thank You for the gift of baptism, through which You claim us as Your beloved children.
In the waters of baptism, You call us to die to sin and rise to new life in You. Help us to
remember this sacred gift each day and to live as those renewed by Your Spirit.
Lord, we confess that too often we fall short, clinging to our old ways and struggling with sin. Yet, You are faithful, and Your grace sustains us. Teach us to “die daily” to ourselves, that we may walk in Your light and reflect Your love in all we do.
As we reflect on Jesus’ baptism, remind us of the affirmation spoken over Him: “You are my beloved.” May we hear these words in our own hearts, knowing that we are deeply loved by You. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, empowering us to live boldly as Your witnesses in the world.
Guide us, Lord, in this lifelong journey of faith. Strengthen us for the spiritual battles ahead, and help us to trust in Your promises. May our lives bring glory to You until the day we stand in Your presence, fully redeemed and restored.
In the name of Jesus Christ, who was baptized and affirmed by You, we pray. Amen.
