January 12 , 2025 Welcome to Trinity ! 9:00 am
Sermon Title : Water , Holy Spirit & Fire Rev . Chris Neikirk
Basic Theme :
Baptism is one of the two sacraments recognized by the United Methodist Church . Have you ever wondered why we baptize ? When did this practice begin ? How much water is necessary and how should an individual be baptized ? Baptism is offered to anyone at any age provided they meet the simple qualifications and are willing to take the vows ( or a parent take them for a child ). Baptism is a requirement for church membership .
Sermon Snapshot ( Key Points ):
In today ’ s scripture , we encounter the profound symbols of water , the Holy Spirit , and fire . Isaiah reminds us that God calls us by name , redeeming us through water — symbolizing purification and renewal . In Luke , the Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus like a dove , marking the divine affirmation of His identity and mission . Baptism , therefore , becomes a sacred moment where we are united with Christ in water , empowered by the Spirit , and purified by fire . On this Baptism of Our Lord Sunday , we are reminded that God ’ s presence transforms us , guiding us into a life of holiness and mission .
So What ?
Have you experienced the Sacrament of Holy Baptism ? Do you need to reaffirm your baptismal vows ? How will the waters of Holy Baptism transform you ?
Scripture Reading : Isaiah 43:1-7 ; Luke 3:15-17 , 21-22 ( NIV )
1
But now , this is what the LORD says — he who created you , Jacob , he who formed you , Israel : “ Do not fear , for I have redeemed you ; I have summoned you by name ; you are mine .
2
When you pass through the waters , I will be with you ; and when you pass through the rivers , they will not sweep over you . When you walk through the fire , you will not be burned ; the flames will not set you ablaze . 3 For I am the LORD your God , the Holy One of Israel , your Savior ; I give Egypt for your ransom , Cush and Seba in your stead . 4 Since you are precious and honored in my sight , and because I love you , I will give people in exchange for you , nations in exchange for your life .
5
Do not be afraid , for I am with you ; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west . 6 I will say to the north , ‘ Give them up !’ and to the south , ‘ Do not hold them back .’ Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth — 7 everyone who is called by my name , whom I created for my glory , whom I formed and made .”
15
The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Messiah . 16 John answered them all , “ I baptize you with water . But one who is more powerful than I will come , the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie . He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire . 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn , but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire .”
21
When all the people were being baptized , Jesus was baptized too . And as he was praying , heaven was opened
22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove . And a voice came from heaven : “ You are my Son , whom I love ; with you I am well pleased .”
11:11am Service Information :
Opening Music : In the Room Holy Water Great Light of the World
Communion Song : Breathe Closing Song : Faithful Now
Matt Maher
We the Kingdom Bebo Norman
Marie Barnett
Vertical Worship
Bill Maetschke , Praise Team Leader