1Peter 3:20-21
...to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, we're saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also-- not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ...
There certainly is a lot of symbolism here. I am beginning to think of baptism as a symbol itself. It can accompany a pledge of repentance, it can bring a baby into a family of believers who promise to teach the child about God, and it can represent the act of accepting Christ as one's Savior. Baptism involves water, and as Jesus told the woman at the well, when we are believers it becomes "living water", assuring us eternal life with Him. It is fascinating to me that so much importance is placed on "how" the baptism is done. I will benefit most from clarifying what it actually means. Still working on that.
Holy Lord, thank you for leading me to this topic which I really know so little about. Help me to learn even more, through your word. Amen
Becky, transforming
Pic by Tom
Thursday, August 3rd, 2023
1 Peter 3:20-21
Because they formerly did not obey, when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The meaning of this verse is explained by the verse itself. If there is any confusion about the first part of the verse the last part makes it clear. Who is condemned? The one who does not believe! It does not say “who is not baptized!”…
1 Peter 3:20-21
Water is the most used symbol in the Bible. It is representative of cleansing, purifying, difficulties, and God’s Spirit. The cleansing Peter speaks to is the cleansing of our mind and spirit. In adult baptism, you are not only accepting Christ as your Savior, but you are saying you will live a life worthy of him and his sacrifice.
Prayer: Gracious God, Although I have no memory of my infant baptism, I hope I am living the life you desire of me. Amen