Scripture Reading: Acts 19:1–5

Introduction

A. When Paul came to Ephesus and found disciples who had only received John’s baptism, he taught them more fully, and they were baptized again “in the name of the Lord Jesus” (v 5).

B. It is possible for baptism to be invalid, making the act void of the blessings that come with obedience to the gospel.

Discussion

I. What could it mean if your baptism is invalid?

A. You are still in your sins (Acts 22:16; 1 Peter 3:21).

B. You are not a member of Christ’s church (1 Corinthians 12:13).

C. You are not yet a recipient of God’s promises (Acts 2:39).

D. Your prayers are still being hindered by your sins (1 Peter 3:12; Isaiah 59:1–2).

II. There are a number of things that can make baptism invalid.

A. Some are baptized by the wrong method.

B. Some are baptized for the wrong purpose.

C. Some are baptized prematurely.

III. In other cases, “re–baptism” is not necessary.

A. When we commit sin after we have been baptized into Christ, the blood of Christ continues to wash away these sins as long as we “walk in the light” (1 John 1:7).

B. A lack of perfect knowledge does not necessitate a second baptism if we were baptized with a proper understanding of the commitment we were making to God (Acts 2:42; 1 Peter 2:2).

Conclusion

A. The decision to put on Christ is the most important one you will ever make: make it carefully.

B. If you have struggled with uncertainty about your baptism, don’t struggle with it a moment longer.