Scott Worthington
A Jesus Follower's First Step
Next Step Sundays 2026
Apr 12, 2026Romans 6:4
As we kick off week 1 of Next Step Sundays, we’re focusing on baptism, with Pastor Scott Worthington teaching from Romans 6:4.
Baptism is a public declaration that says, “I am a Jesus follower.” In this message, we break down what baptism does not do and what it does do, helping bring clarity to its meaning and purpose. If you’ve been thinking about getting baptized or feel God leading you to take that next step, this message is for you. Check it out to learn more!
Sermon Notes
A Jesus Follower’s First Step
Baptism Weekend 2026
“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.” Romans 6:4
Subtle Lie: discipleship is something you complete.
“While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.’ Immediately they left their nets and followed him.” Matthew 4:18-20
“For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son...” Romans 8:29a
Every Jesus follower has a next step
We help people discover where they are on their spiritual journey and how to take their next step.
1. What is Baptism?
Baptism is a public declaration that says: “I am a Jesus follower!”
“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.” Romans 6:4
“So those who received his word were baptized…” Acts 2:41a
2. What Does Baptism Not Do?
Baptism doesn’t save me. It’s a testimony that I’ve been saved.
3. What Does Baptism Do?
Two Characteristics of Baptism:
1. Baptism is a step of obedience to Jesus
“Put simply—baptism is a clear command of Jesus Christ. We obey Him when we baptize and we disobey Him when we don’t.” Dr. Ray Pritchard
“Someone says, ‘I can be saved without being baptized.’ So will you do nothing that Christ commands, if you can be saved without doing it? Baptism is not essential to your salvation but is essential to your obedience to Christ.” Charles Spurgeon
Two Characteristics of Baptism:
1. Baptism is a step of obedience to Jesus
2. Baptism is a sign of belonging to a family
“So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls.” Acts 2:41
4. Who Needs to Be Baptized?
Two groups of people who should NOT be baptized:
1. People who do not have a relationship with Jesus
2. People who have already been baptized biblically
Baptism in the New Testament was…
1. After salvation
2. By immersion
3. In community
Unless you are a part of these 2 groups:
1. People who do not have a relationship with Jesus
2. People who have already been baptized biblically
TODAY YOU NEED TO BE BAPTIZED!
Common Objections…
“I’m not ready…”
“I was baptized before…”
“I’m afraid of ___________”
“I don’t understand why it’s a big deal…”
Sermon Notes
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