Lecture Notes: Preparing for Easter and the Significance of Baptism

Introduction

• The lecture opens with a story about Thomas and his father coming to Christ and getting baptized.
• The focus of the lecture is on preparation for Easter and understanding the importance of serving and baptism.

Key Concepts for Easter Preparation

• Acronym: PIGS
  • Pray
  • Invite
  • Give
  • Serve
• Emphasis on serving because it prepares the church for the number of people God will bring.
• Reference to 2 Kings 4: The miracle of jars illustrates preparation.

Importance of Serving

• Aim for 20% of the weekend’s attendance to be involved in serving.
• Serving helps create a welcoming environment for new attendees.
• Potential attendance of over 6,000 people for Easter, including many who are not yet believers.

Baptism: A Key Theme

• Baptism is a continuation of an Old Testament idea linked to the New Testament.
• Story of the Israelites crossing the Red Sea in Exodus 14 is linked to baptism.
• Baptism brings glory to God and is a significant step in one's faith journey.

Understanding Baptism

• Old Testament Connection: Baptism is linked to the story of Israel crossing the Red Sea (1 Corinthians 10:1).
• Symbolism of Baptism:
  • A funeral, a marriage, and a birth announcement.
  • Marks a transition to a new life, leaving the old life behind.

The Role of Fear and Faith

• Fear is the opposite of faith.
• Story of Israelites fearing as Egyptians pursued them, illustrating the challenge of fear in the face of faith.
• Faith grows when God becomes bigger in our lives, reducing the fear.

Practical Application

• Baptism serves as a marker of one's faith and a reminder of God's salvation.
• It's an act of obedience and a public declaration of faith.
• Encouragement to those not yet baptized to take this step, especially during Easter.

Conclusion

• Call to action for believers to remember their baptism as a means to combat fear and fuel gratitude.
• Invitation for those not baptized to participate in upcoming Easter baptisms.
• Emphasis on the spiritual benefits of baptism in growing one’s faith and obedience.

Closing Remarks

• Reflection on the metaphor of the Red Sea and God's deliverance.
• Encouragement to engage with God and make baptism a meaningful milestone.

Action Steps

• Consider baptism if not yet undertaken.
• Participate in serving opportunities for Easter.
• Reflect on personal faith journey and the significance of baptism.