WATER BAPTISM
Scriptures 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, Romans 6:3-4 3 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. Colossians 2:12-14 12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. 13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by cancelling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. Ephesians 2:8-9 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Mark 1:9-10 9 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. Acts 2:41 41 So those who received his word were baptized, Matthew 28:19 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, What is baptism? Water baptism is a wonderful visible rite given to mark our salvation, and our initiation into the worldwide church, and as such it is one of the things we celebrate most at OneTribe. Water baptism assists and reinforces our understanding of the Gospel. The physical reality of going completely under water and then being raised up represents how we were once dead, but now we have been raised with Christ to new life. It is also a powerful visual witness to others by being a public declaration of our faith, both to believers and unbelievers. Do I have to get baptised? Baptism does not make you a Christian, it does not get you into heaven and it does not save you. The Bible is clear that we are saved through belief in God’s grace, not through any good works or rituals that we do. There are also examples in scripture, such as the criminal on the cross next to Jesus who was accepted into paradise, even though he was not baptized (Lk 23:43). However, baptism is not optional for Christians, it is a normal outworking of salvation. Jesus commanded it in Matthew 28:19 and was baptised himself, so it would be strange not to follow the example set by Christ. What if you were baptised as a baby? We would say – be baptised as a believer . Usually there are historical and emotional reasons why people who have been baptized as babies do not want to entertain the thought that they were actually doing something that wasn’t biblical. Often well-meaning parents baptised their children out of either (a) obedience to the traditions of their church but without properly checking the scriptures, or (b) to clear their conscience that this ritual somehow will assist their children in their salvation, whether directly or indirectly. However, there just doesn’t seem to be any biblical evidence to support getting baptised before you actually believe. On the contrary, the bible is clear that baptism should follow repentance. How does Baptism happen? With lots of water: The Greek word baptizo means, “to plunge, dip, immerse.” With lots of people watching: Most of the biblical accounts of baptism occur in public places. You will want to do it with a variety of believers and unbelievers watching. Who actually does the baptising? Usually church leaders (elders, pastors or Small Group leaders) do it, although it can be appropriate for a believing friend or family member to do the baptising. Or, why not involve the person who played the biggest role in your journey to faith, rather like Philip was with his Ethiopian convert (Acts 8:38)? Still yearning for more? Sign-up to attend the class
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Experience Easter like Never Before at OneTribe Church!
Get ready, Nairobi! OneTribe Church is gearing up for an Easter celebration like no other! Prepare to immerse yourself in joy, community, and the timeless message of hope. Here's everything you need to know about our upcoming Easter event:
Exciting times are ahead as we announce a transformative journey for young adults in Nairobi. The Cave is thrilled to present a 10-week Discipleship Course, designed to empower you in your faith, break free from hindrances, and equip you to make a meaningful impact on your life and those around you.
What's the Invite? This course is more than just a series of sessions; it's an invitation to discover life, purpose, and freedom. Our curated content covers topics such as conquering fear, healing from past hurts, navigating emotions, and addressing relevant issues like pornography and masturbation. How is the Content Structured? Expect an engaging blend of video content, group discussions, and reflective sessions. To enrich your experience, we're providing supporting materials, including a daily devotional, accessible via a dedicated app. The participant's guide will be your companion on this transformative journey. Who's Invited? If you're a Nairobi resident in your 20s or 30s, consider this your personal invitation. The Cave warmly welcomes you to join us on this exciting venture. Accessing the Course You have two options: in-person sessions at Ruaka and Juja (details shared upon request) or virtual participation every Thursday evening from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Start Date Mark your calendars for the week of February 18th; that's when this life-changing course kicks off! An Investment in Yourself Grab your participant’s guide for just 600 KES! Pick-up is available in the OneTribe office before or on the 18th! How to Sign Up? Ready to embark on this transformative experience? Simply add your details through this link, confirm your preference for either virtual or physical attendance, make the payment, and pick up your copy of the participant's guide at OneTribe Church on or before February 18th. Join us in this pursuit of life, purpose, and freedom. We can't wait to see you thrive! Blessings, The Cave Team
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