For our friends across the Atlantic, today marks the day when, in 1776, the United States of America declared their independence and separation from Great Britain. It was the start of a whole new nation which they still look back on with gratitude and excitement as they continue to strive for the same goals of the nation’s founding fathers to fulfil the ‘American dream’.
Of course, the world and indeed America has changed a great deal since that independence day. The American dream has not fulfilled the heady ambitions that so many spoke of. As with everything ‘under the sun’ nationhood contains some meaning but never ultimate meaning because it does not hold a future beyond the grave.
Last Sunday morning we celebrated the baptism of one young man. His testimony was not a declaration of independence but of utter dependence on Jesus who will never let him down. We paused for a moment to look at the first time disciples of the Lord Jesus began to fulfil His command to baptise those who believe as they founded the first church. The 3000 who were baptised that day had responded in desperation to the Gospel message and obeyed the apostles’ instruction…
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” (Acts 2:38,39)
Their dramatic response was the fulfilment of God’s eternal plan which the apostle Peter had explained. What happened that day was not a promise for life, but of life and for eternity!
Praise God for His grace!
Spencer Shaw