Soldier's Orders: The Plunge Of Allegiance
Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?”
Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented.
As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. At that moment, heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a Voice from Heaven said, “This is my Son, Whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.”
Matthew 3:13-17 (NIV)
If you’re an American citizen, then consider its Pledge of Allegiance:
'I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.'
If you're a Christian living anywhere, then consider a more critical pledge:
'I plunge in allegiance to King Jesus by the Baptism of Repentance from sin, by Whom we stand, one people, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.'
As in a total immersion baptism: a VERY PUBLIC PLUNGE of allegiance. Because warriors are never half-in. They’re not about dainty little sprinkles. Top-to-bottom, they're in it to win it: a whole-hearted support for whom they serve.
Also among major army recruits, remember two immediate must-do's:
A no-frills hairstyle (and)
A team uniform…
Both are physical manifestations of their transformation into soldiers. By them, the world knows their identity. Equally crucial, they know each other.
Therein, baptism for mature believers is a public profession, a show of submission to God, and faith in His Son. Is Baptism crucial to enter Heaven? I don’t think it is.*
Is it a wise move? Your Captain thought so. If God’s Own Son wanted to be baptized, shouldn’t we follow our Leader in this?
Actors, models, and talent for Christ:
If you haven’t been baptized (since childhood), then as God’s soldier, consider it now.
Submitting as a child is a good thing. Submitting when you’re older is harder– but in humility, God gives you strength!
Soldier's Orders: The Plunge Of Allegiance (Part 4)
NOTE: God is my Ghostwriter. If what I write is good, it’s from God. You may see notes to 'Actors, Models & Talent for Christ.' If you think you're not in show business, think again. Shakespeare said, 'All the world's a stage and all its men and women merely players.’ Mostly true. But you're not merely players. You are messengers and ambassadors for the King of kings.
* Short Article: Christian Baptism: http://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-baptism.html
* Short Article: Is Baptism Necessary for Salvation: http://www.gotquestions.org/baptism-salvation.html