TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” Acts 19:4
Read: Acts 19:1-7
Listen: Acts 19
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Returning to Ephesus, Paul finds a group of disciples and strikes up a conversation. Stating they have only received “John’s baptism,” it appears these disciples haven’t heard of Jesus yet but heard the message of John the Baptist. John the Baptist was the “voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord…’” (Luke 3:4). John proclaimed the coming of Jesus to a people who desperately needed a Savior. As he did, he baptized everyone who came to him and admitted they were a sinner. This baptism of repentance was a significant step in preparation for Jesus. But there are more steps.
Paul tells these disciples that the One John proclaimed has come. He tells them about Jesus, the recently crucified and resurrected Messiah who died to bring them completely to God. Responding to Paul’s message, they believe and are baptized in the name of Jesus. John’s disciples, as they hear and are baptized, keep moving in their spiritual growth.
We need to keep moving as well. Maybe you are new to Ada Bible Church with questions about God but don’t yet know Jesus. Keep moving. Perhaps you are new to being a Jesus-follower and not sure what’s next. Keep moving. Or you might be just re-engaging with church after an extended absence. Keep moving. Your journey is toward Jesus, who gave his life for you. Keep moving!
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Begin to consider what your next step should be. One way to do this is to visit adabible.org/next-steps. There you’ll see several good options for you to keep moving in your journey with Jesus at Ada Bible Church.
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is 1 Timothy 2.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
