The Promise of Baptism

When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”      -Acts 2:37-39

When God’s word is at work, as it obviously did through Peter’s preaching, there must be a response. God’s word always calls for a response. When the law quickens our spirit and awakens us to our hopelessness, we may respond with indifference, disbelief or repentance. Is repentance enough to be saved? Do we receive the Holy Spirit through repentance? Not according to this passage of Scripture! The promise spoken of by Peter is Christ’s promise of the Holy Spirit, which Peter links directly to the act of baptism. Through baptism we receive forgiveness of sin and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Baptism is a means of God’s grace. In other words, through baptism God delivers the mercy and grace made available to all through the Cross of Christ.

Have you been baptized?
If so, thank God for the grace He has promised you. He is faithful to that promise, even if you have failed Him.
If not, what prevents you from receiving the gift God has promised to give you? The Lord our God is calling you to respond to Him today! Don’t put it off.

If you would like to be baptized “in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins” give me a call, drop me an email, or leave a comment and let me know how to reach you. Or speak with a pastor in a church near your home. Whatever you do, don’t put it off; don’t miss another day of God’s goodness in your life.