Acts 19:1-7 (NRSV)
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Chapter 19While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul passed through the interior regions and came to Ephesus, where he found some disciples. Verse 2He said to them, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?" They replied, "No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit." Verse 3Then he said, "Into what then were you baptized?" They answered, "Into John's baptism." Verse 4Paul said, "John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, in Jesus." Verse 5On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Verse 6When Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied- Verse 7altogether there were about twelve of them.
Devotion
The Apostle Paul had a rather significant discussion with some disciples about Baptism. The end result is that Paul baptized a group of twelve in the name of the Lord Jesus.
I have officiated at a number of “multiple baptisms” over the years, including many “parent and child” baptisms, where one of the parents was baptized at the same service as his or her child. The baptismal service that impacted me the most, however, was a “grandparent and grandchild” baptism I officiated at in a former parish. Grandpa and granddaughter were both baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus at the same service! Can you imagine the discussions that have taken place over the years surrounding those celebrations?
If you are not in the practice of celebrating the anniversary of the baptisms of the people in your life -- including your own -- consider beginning that practice. Imagine the discussions it could lead to!
Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank you for the promises that come in baptism. Help me to appreciate more this great and wonderful gift you have given us. Amen.