Join us for an in-depth Bible study session from the Profoundly Christian, Distinctly Methodist series, focusing on Questions 33 & 34 from A Catechism of Christian Faith and Doctrine for the Global Methodist Church. Led by teacher Sherry Judy, this lively discussion explores the Methodist understanding of baptism as a profoundly Christian sacrament.
In this teaching, the group opens with the classic Charles Wesley hymn "O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing" (highlighting the line "He breaks the power of canceled sin"), followed by prayer and reflection on belonging to Christ. The session dives deep into:
- One Baptism — Exploring Ephesians 4:4-6 and the theme of unity in the Body of Christ ("one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God")
- Identification with Christ's death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-5)
- Baptism as entrance into the household of faith, symbol of repentance, inner cleansing, new birth, and mark of discipleship (Acts 2:37-39 and other key passages)
- The Global Methodist Church's position on infant baptism, prevenient grace, household baptisms in Acts, and the church's responsibility to nurture baptized children toward personal faith
- Debates on infant vs. believer's baptism, rebaptism vs. reaffirmation, modes (sprinkling, pouring, immersion), and the role of the Holy Spirit
- Repentance, forgiveness of sins, receiving the Holy Spirit, new life, and living free from sin's power
- Powerful personal testimonies, historical practices (Lutheran, Episcopal, etc.), and encouragement to reaffirm baptism
- A stirring report of thousands baptized in the Amazon River region amid global revival
This interactive class includes honest questions from participants about childhood baptism, parental vows, confirmation, the Holy Spirit's work, and how baptism unites believers across traditions. The discussion emphasizes that baptism is God's gracious act — not earned by us — and calls us to live as new creations in Christ.
Whether you're Methodist, exploring the Global Methodist Church, preparing for baptism/confirmation, or simply seeking deeper understanding of this foundational Christian rite, this session offers rich scriptural insight, Wesleyan theology, and heartfelt application.
Key Scriptures Referenced:
- Ephesians 4:4-6
- Romans 6:1-5
- Acts 2:37-39
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13
- Galatians 3:27-28
- Colossians 2:11-14
- Hebrews 10:19-22
If this resonates, check out the companion book *Profoundly Christian, Distinctly Methodist* and *A Catechism of Christian Faith and Doctrine for the Global Methodist Church* (available through Seedbed and GMC resources).
