After Baptism, What Next ? - Charles Banna
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Summary
The speaker addresses those who have been baptized, emphasizing that it is only the beginning of the Christian life, not the end. He teaches that Christians need continuous strengthening through the Word and the Holy Spirit to live victoriously. The core message draws from Acts 2 and Matthew 1, highlighting that God saves us from sin until the Lord's return, and that Jesus promises to baptize believers with the Holy Spirit and fire, which is needed for boldness in witnessing.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What next after baptism?Believers who have recently been baptized should realize they have only reached the starting line of the Christian life and need inner strength for the journey ahead.
The first promise in the New TestamentThe first promise is that Jesus shall save His people from their sins, caring for both our past forgiveness and our present failures.Matthew 1:21
The second promise of the Holy SpiritJohn the Baptist foretold that Jesus would baptize believers with the Holy Spirit and fire, providing the power needed to live the Christian life.
Receiving the Spirit by faithThe Holy Spirit is received by faith, believing God's word and promises rather than necessarily waiting for a spectacular emotional experience.
Power to be witnessesThe Holy Spirit empowers believers to be true witnesses for Christ through transformed lives and boldness.
Varieties of gifts in the TrinityFirst Corinthians 12 outlines the Trinity working together to give diverse gifts and ministries to the church for the common good.
The human body as a picture of the churchJust as the human body has many different parts working together, the church needs every member and every gift functioning in harmony.
The more excellent way of loveWhile spiritual gifts vary, the apostle Paul points to divine love as the greatest and most essential quality produced by the Spirit.
New Testament prophecyNew Testament prophecy is not about predicting the future, but speaking words of edification, exhortation, and consolation to bless the church.
Equipping for service and maturityGod gives gifts to equip the saints for service so that the body of Christ may grow into maturity and the fullness of Jesus.
Kept from stumblingJude's doxology assures believers that God is able to keep them from stumbling and present them blameless with great joy.
Preparing disciples for tribulationThe early apostles and Jesus Himself trained disciples to expect tribulations and opposition on the path into the kingdom of God.
Persecution for godly livingPaul reminds Timothy that everyone who desires to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will face persecution, yet the Lord rescues them out of all.2 Timothy 3:10–12
Bearing His reproach outside the campBelievers are called to follow Jesus outside the camp, bearing His reproach while seeking the city that is to come.
