Theology of the Church, Mentor's Guide, MG03

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T H E O L O G Y O F T H E C H U R C H

a. Placed into the body of Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit, 1 Cor. 12.13

b. Through baptism, we become directly identified with Jesus in his death and resurrection, Rom. 6.3-5.

c. Baptism, therefore, is a sign of union with Christ: we are buried with him in baptism, and raised with him through faith, Col. 2.12.

B. A part of baptism is establishing new believers in the first truths of Jesus Christ.

1. 1 Pet. 2.2

2. Col. 2.6-7

3

3. Heb. 5.12-6.2

What are the implications of this teaching?

a. Milk must be given to new believers, to get them established in the truth in the midst of godly Christian assembly and fellowship.

b. This milk, introductory teaching, is critical as a foundation for the ongoing growth toward maturity in Christ.

C. Finally, newly baptized believers are to be brought in and incorporated into a local church where they can grow and serve in Jesus Christ.