We Are Baptist

Sermon Title: We Are Baptist

Scripture Text: Matthew 28:18-20

1. Key Scriptures

• Matthew 28:18-20

• Daniel 7:13-14

• Psalm 2:6

• Psalm 110:1

• John 17:2

• Acts 10:36

• Exodus 3:12, 14

• John 14:15

• Matthew 1:23

2. Sermon Flow & Takeaways

I. Christ’s Universal Authority (v. 18)

Jesus, the risen Lord, declares that all authority in heaven and earth has been given to him, establishing the foundation for the church’s identity and mission.

• Takeaway: No pope, state, culture, or self can bind the conscience, only Christ.

• Application: Examine where you anchor authority: feelings, culture, leaders, or Christ alone.

II. The Scope of the Mission (v. 19a)

Because Jesus holds all authority, he sends his followers to make disciples of all nations.

• Takeaway: The church is a movement, not a monument; faith is not private but global.

• Application: Ask where you’ve domesticated the mission into comfort rather than obedience.

III. The Sign of Discipleship: Baptism (v. 19b)

Baptism is the believer’s public covenant oath of allegiance to the Triune God, faith precedes baptism.

• Takeaway: Baptism is not cultural ritual or superstition but a declaration: “I belong to Christ.”

• Application: Live daily in light of your baptismal identity: you are not your own.

IV. The Life of Obedience (v. 20a)

Disciples are to be taught to observe all Jesus commanded, not selectively, but fully.

• Takeaway: True discipleship is lifelong apprenticeship to Christ, not casual attendance.

• Application: Where are you resisting Jesus’ commands? Ask him to reshape those areas.

V. The Promise of His Presence (v. 20b)

Jesus closes with his promise: “I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

• Takeaway: The Commission is not a burden to carry alone but a Spirit-filled mission with Christ beside us.

• Application: Trade fear and self-reliance for confidence in Christ’s abiding presence.

3. Primary Sources (cited)

• Craig Blomberg, Matthew (NAC)

• Matthew Henry, Commentary on the Whole Bible

• Charles Spurgeon, The Power of the Risen Saviour (MTP, Vol. 20)

4. Additional Resources

• Founders Ministries: What Is a Reformed Baptist?

• Logos Blog: What Is a Reformed Baptist?

• Founders Ministries: What Is a Baptist?

• Sermon: “What Makes The Great Commission Great” (Desiring God)

• Articles on Baptism (The Gospel Coalition)