On January 11th, Pastor Gustafson delivered a thought-provoking sermon that invited us to reflect deeply on the significance of baptism in our lives. Through the lens of Jesus' own baptism, Pastor Gustafson highlighted themes of identity, righteousness, and God's unwavering love for each of us. Below are some key points from the sermon that resonate with our spiritual journey:

• Jesus' Baptism as Solidarity: Pastor Gustafson explained that Jesus' baptism was not for His own cleansing, but an act of solidarity with humanity. By stepping into the waters of the Jordan, Jesus identified Himself with sinners, showing us that He meets us in our brokenness.
• Fulfilling All Righteousness: The sermon underscored that Jesus' baptism was about fulfilling all righteousness. This act was a precursor to His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, highlighting that He does for us what we cannot do for ourselves.
• Our Identity in Christ: We were reminded that through baptism, we are declared children of God. This powerful declaration means that we are pleasing to God, not because of our deeds, but because of what Jesus accomplished for us.

As we carry these reflections into our daily lives, let's embrace our identity as God's beloved children. When challenges arise, remember that you are never alone—God walks with you every step of the way. Let's strive to live out our baptismal promise by loving others and trusting in God's guidance.

January 11, 2026 Sermon

Reading

• Matthew 3:13-17
• Romans 6:3-4

Warm Up

• Reflect on a time when you felt a strong sense of belonging or identity. What contributed to that feeling?
• How do you currently understand the significance of baptism in the Christian faith?

Scripture Exploration

• Read Matthew 3:13-17. What are the key actions and responses in this passage?
• How does this passage describe the relationship between Jesus and John the Baptist?
• Consider the phrase "to fulfill all righteousness." What does this suggest about Jesus' mission?

Personal Reflection

• In what ways does Jesus' baptism demonstrate his willingness to identify with humanity?
• How does Romans 6:3-4 expand on the significance of baptism for believers?
• What theological principles can we derive from Jesus' baptism concerning our own identity in Christ?

Personal Application

• How does understanding Jesus' baptism as an act of identification with sinners affect your view of your own baptism?
• In what ways can you remind yourself daily of your identity as a child of God?
• Consider a situation in your life where you feel distant from God. How can the message of this sermon guide you in seeking reconciliation and peace?
• Plan a practical step you can take this week to live out your baptismal identity in your community, such as serving others or sharing your faith story.