Romans 6:1-14

He is raised! Jesus overcame death so it has no power over the saved. We too have the opportunity to participate in this death through baptism.

Jesus ushered in a new era with his death and now each of us as can become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17) through baptism. Our old selves are crucified and we are raised to a life to please God. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead will raise us from the grave on the last day through our faith (Colossians 2:11-13).  

Is this a process? Yes and no. Breaking before the cross and the epiphany of our own evil takes our decision (instant) to accept God discipline (over time). Faithfully deciding to be change our attitude (Corinthians 7:8-13) and be immersed for the forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38) is instantaneous. Becoming a new creation is also not a progression or process, but an instant in time.

Those who can celebrate Jesus’ resurrection because they have shared in it through baptism, share it with those who have not been made new creations. Those who have not experienced the brokenness of the cross or the joy of the empty tomb through the God’s forgiving waters of baptism contact me or find a church near you. "The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" (Mark 1:15) "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.” (Acts 2:38b)