As followers of Jesus we are called to be part of His Church, and to identify with it. Sometimes we are embarrassed about the association with a Church that is flawed, but we are part of a historic, universal and catholic Church that Jesus loves and is head of.

DISCUSSION NOTES

March 20th Belonging & Baptism.

Matthew 28:19 Ephesians 4:5 Romans 6:4 Mathew 3:13-17

Following Jesus includes a radical commitment to his Church- so much so that the picture of Church is of a body where if one part suffers we all suffer.

Baptism is a sign of identification-not just with Christ, but with ‘the body of Christ.’ There is an exclusivity about that commitment which has led to Christians being persecuted for taking that step. Yet Baptism kicks starts or expresses a whole life of obedience to Jesus- no sitting on the fence- and is normative for Christian initiation.

Questions for discussion.

1. What does baptism symbolise in the bible?

2. Why is it helpful to go through such a public and physical act?

3. What is the link between baptism and discipleship?

4. Why would someone not get baptised in the light of Jesus teaching?