One: Baptism

In this episode of the podcast, Jim Putman leads Sam, Blake, Gabe and Jim into the topic of baptism as part of the ongoing "One" series, focusing on Ephesians 4. They discuss how the church can maintain unity amidst diverse backgrounds and theological differences, especially around the meaning and practice of baptism.

With personal stories, the pastors explore their journeys from various Christian traditions and how they came to understand baptism through the lens of scripture. They emphasize the need for clarity, obedience, and unity in the body of Christ.

Some of the things they discuss: 

1. The Importance of Baptism
   Baptism is central to Christian faith and practice, but the meaning and method of baptism can differ greatly across denominations. The pastors reflect on their own experiences growing up in different church traditions and how those shaped their initial views on baptism. For example, Gabe grew up in a Nazarene church where baptisms were rare, while Sam’s Bible church didn’t even have a baptistry. The hosts emphasize the biblical understanding of baptism as an act of obedience and a public declaration of faith.

2. Unity in Christ Amidst Diversity
   The group discusses how churches today often struggle with unity, not only because of different traditions but also due to varied interpretations of key elements like baptism. Real Life Ministries aims to teach a biblical understanding of baptism while extending grace to those who may come from different backgrounds. The goal is not division but unity through scripture and the shared mission of making disciples.

3. Biblical Foundation of Baptism
   Jim shares how going back to the early church’s teachings in the New Testament helps bring clarity. The early Christians, like the apostles, practiced immersion as part of the baptism process. He also discusses how the act of baptism is a symbolic representation of being "buried with Christ" and raised to a new life. This water immersion aligns with the teaching of scripture and should be emphasized in the church today.

4. The Role of Discipleship in Obedience
   Discipleship plays a crucial role in understanding and following Jesus' commands, including baptism. Jim and the pastors recount personal stories of how mentors in their lives helped them realize the significance of baptism, encouraging obedience to God's Word. This process of walking with others in faith is key to ensuring that baptism is not just a ritual but a meaningful step of obedience.

5. Living Out Our Faith as a Unified Body
   Jim closes by reminding listeners that unity in the body of Christ goes beyond theology—it’s about living out the truth of scripture in love. He encourages believers to hold fast to biblical truths, such as baptism, while also walking in grace and love toward others. This is how the church can reflect Christ to a divided and broken world.

Discussion Questions:

1. How has your understanding of baptism changed over the years?
2. What role has discipleship played in your own faith journey, particularly in understanding key practices like baptism?
3. What are some ways your church can better teach and live out a biblical understanding of baptism while maintaining unity?
4. How do you personally balance grace and truth when discussing important but sometimes divisive topics like baptism?
5. What does it mean for the church to be truly “one” in Christ, especially in today’s culture?

By understanding scripture and living in obedience, we can foster unity in the body of Christ, even in a world that is often divided. Let’s continue to seek clarity in God's Word, extend grace to others, and live out our faith in unity.