The Transformative Power of Baptism and Encountering Jesus
This past Sunday at The Table Church we celebrated Baptism Sunday—a sacred and joyful moment in the life of our church. As I (Lenny, pastor at The Table Church) stood before the congregation, I was reminded of the deep, transformative power of encountering Jesus. Not just in a mystical sense, but in the real, practical ways He continues to change lives today.
We’ve been in a post-Easter teaching series called Resurrection Encounters, looking at the people who met the risen Jesus. This week, we explored one of the most dramatic stories in the Bible—Saul’s encounter on the road to Damascus. Saul, later known as Paul, was once a fierce persecutor of the church, “breathing murderous threats” against Jesus’ followers. Yet in one divine moment, everything changed. Jesus appeared to him and asked, “Why are you persecuting me?”—a powerful reminder of the mystical union between Christ and His people. What we do to one another, we do to Him.
But Jesus didn’t stop with Saul. He also called an ordinary believer, Ananias, to be part of Saul’s transformation. Ananias, fearful but faithful, went to Saul and greeted him with the words, “Brother Saul.” That’s grace in action. It’s the kingdom of God redefining family, identity, and worth—not based on our past, but on Jesus’ call.
That same union and transformation are what baptism represents. It’s not just a personal declaration—it’s a corporate event. In baptism, we’re united with Christ and birthed into the family of believers. We receive God’s seal of identity and adoption, just as Jesus did at His own baptism: “You are my beloved.”
So, what does this mean for you?
Action Points:
If you’ve been baptized—remember your identity. You are sealed, loved, and called. Live today as someone deeply known and affirmed by God.
If you haven’t been baptized yet—consider taking that step. Our next baptism is on August 3rd. Reach out if you’re ready to follow Jesus and be united with Him and His people.
Let’s walk The Way together. Jesus still transforms lives—sometimes dramatically, sometimes quietly—but always powerfully.