CD - The Power of Baptism - Mark 16:16

We like power. We talk about people being on power trips. Power can be intoxicating. Power can be all consuming. But, what is power? More importantly, what is the power of Baptism? Is it the water? Water is water, is it not? Maybe if we used holy water, that would make a difference, that would make it powerful. No, water is water. There is nothing special about the water, nothing special that we should adore it or hold it in any particular awe or reverence, because the power is not in the water.

If not the water, then certainly the Word, because there are only two things in Baptism, water and Word. Yes, the Word is from where the power comes. But not just any Word. We are commanded, we are entrusted to Baptize in a particular way, with a particular Word and that Word with which we are to Baptize is the name of our God, “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” Not just any name will do. Certainly we could Baptize in the name of mother earth, father god and sister Sue, but that word would not have the same power as the name of our God, “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” And besides, God is specific when He tells us that we are to Baptize in His name. He tells us, “Go and make disciples of all nations, Baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” It is His name that gives the Word power, that gives Baptism the power to do what Baptism does, namely to give the gifts that Baptism has to give, or better said, to give the gifts that God gives through Holy Baptism.

The power of Baptism reminds us of the power of God’s Word. God’s Word has power. God’s Word does what it says. If you read it in God’s Word you know it is true, you know it is real, you know you can count on it. God’s Word says that Jesus is true God who took on human flesh. It happened. God’s Word says that Jesus took all our sins upon Himself and suffered and died on the cross for us, in our place. It happened. God’s Word says that Jesus rose from the dead. It happened. God’s Word says that Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, before He ascended into heaven. It happened. God’s Word reminds us that Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father where He is interceding for us, watching over us, ruling and protecting us. It is happening. God’s Word is a Word with power. God says that the putting of His name and water on a person gives faith, forgiveness, life and salvation. God’s says it, it happens and we praise Him!

Dear Lord, thank You for Your Word which does what it says. Help me to be confident in Your Word, knowing that if You say it, it is true and real. Guide and encourage me daily, dear Lord, to be in Your Word, so that through Your Word I might be strengthened and kept in faith until You come again, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.