Scripture to Read: 1 Peter 3:21–22
Yesterday we read how Jesus suffered for our sin and how God's redemption story was proclaimed to the people in Noah's day. Today God shows a comparison between salvation in Noah's day through the ark to the act of baptism. God has Peter write in 1 Peter 3:21, Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you—not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience—through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. So, just as the ark saved Noah and his family from the judgment of God, in a similar way, baptism is a picture of our salvation. Baptism shows how the believer has died to self, been resurrected with Christ, and is saved from God's judgment on sin because Christ took God's judgment on Himself for all sin. We know baptism does not save anyone from their sin, but it's simply an illustration and an act of obedience to our Lord. God has Peter highlight that baptism doesn't save by saying "not the removal of dirt from the flesh," meaning baptism does not cleanse anyone. So, again, baptism is an act of obedience for every follower of Christ. Baptism publicly announces to the church community the change that the Lord has made in a believer's life. The power of salvation is through our Lord Jesus Christ, who is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, after angels and authorities and powers had been subjected to Him (1 Peter 3:22). Every believer's first response of obedience to our Lord then ought to be through their baptism (Matthew 28:19).
Challenge & Application
1. What role does baptism have in the life of a follower of Jesus?
2. Have you been baptized? If you have repented of your sin and trusted in Jesus as Savior and Lord but have not been baptized, speak with a pastor so you can follow in obedience.
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!