TEXT:

SUBJECT: Baptism

Baptism is a blessing to the Church because it allows us to publicly affirm the Divinity of Jesus Christ. In baptism we say "Jesus is God".

We baptize "in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit". There is one name or Divine Essence, but three Persons. The Son, therefore, is no less God than the Father is God. They are "The same in essence, equal in power and glory".

The Divinity of Christ is more than an inference; the Bible teaches it quite clearly and often. John's first chapter is perhaps the most striking example: "In the beginning was the Word, the Word was with God, and the Word was God...And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory..."

The Apostles thought this article supremely important. John went so far as to brand anyone who rejected it as "a deceiver, a liar, and an antichrist". Strong words from a man famous for charity!

The Early Church backed up these words with heroic deeds. When given the choice of denying Christ or going to the lions, they chose the lions! In 112, the governor Pliny wrote: "I discharged those who were willing to curse Christ, a thing Christians cannot be persuaded to do".

The Ecumenical Creeds of the Ancient Church were devoted, almost exclusively, to defending the Deity of our Lord.

Church history, up to the present, proves the same. However badly we've lost our way on other issues, the Church has not "Denied the Lord who bought [us]". This is because, though the Spirit has been grieved, He has not left us. And as long as He is with us, we will confess "Jesus is Lord".

In baptism, we join the Apostles and Fathers, the Martyrs, and Saints of every age in affirming the Divinity of Jesus Christ. As Thomas put it: "My Lord and My God".

In baptism, we challenge others to make up their minds: "What think ye of Christ?" Was He but a holy man, a great teacher, a martyr? Some say that, but they're patronizing Him. He said He is God! If He isn't, then He's a liar or madman, not worthy of our time or your respect. But if He's right, He demands our worship and your faith. "Choose you this day".

God make you choose wisely, for Christ's sake. Amen.