Acts 21:37-22:21

Be still: Lord, still my restless heart, gather my senses and speak to me in this reading of your holy Word. Reveal Jesus to me and renew my mind. Amen

Read: Acts 21:37-22:21

And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptised and wash your sins away, calling on his name. (v16)

Encounter: I still remember the conversation I had with my dad when I was twelve – it was late night at home in Northern California and we were talking about faith. I had just said, 'Yes, I believe in Jesus and that he died for my sins—and I want to be baptised.' My dad said, 'Well, we could baptise you right here if you want but then the family would miss it.' I decided to wait so everyone could witness it.

Paul and Ananias had a similar encounter but Paul 'took the plunge' (literally) immediately. I love this. Why not? If someone believes Jesus is the Son of God who died to take away our sins and that God raised him from the dead so we have eternal life with God—why wait? Getting baptised is a statement that says 'Yes! I do believe. And I'm making that decision public.'

Some people have said to me, 'Matt, I’m not sure I’m ready for baptism because I still have questions.' I understand that. We need to know what we believe before we can live it. Equally though, we can delay baptism because we’re scared of what might happen after. 'What if I sin?'  'What if I’m not good enough?' News Flash: You will sin and Jesus is good enough to forgive, forever.  

When I made my decision, I didn’t know everything about faith and the Bible. I’m sure the Apostle Paul didn’t either. I let the Holy Spirit work in me as I trusted him. I listened to my church leaders. I read my Bible. I stayed in worship. Years later, I am so thankful I trusted Jesus enough to take the step of baptism when I did. 

Apply: Is there a conversation you need to have with yourself, a family member or friend about 'taking the plunge'? Why wait? If you believe Jesus is who he said he was, died for your sin and then rose again so you can be with him forever—now is the time. 

Devote: Lord, I trust you with my questions. Where I am doubtful or anxious, fill me with faith.