Author: Bryan Gibson

Weekly Bulletin
September 10, 2023

The Urgency of Baptism
by Bryan Gibson
Obviously, it’s not very urgent to some, because they delay doing it. When you think you’re saved without it, there’s really no rush. That baptism IS an urgent matter can be seen from several examples in the Book of Acts.
When the people in Acts 2 wanted to know what to do to be saved, Peter said, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ...” (Acts 2:38). Those who “gladly received his word” didn’t wait—they were baptized “that day” (Acts 2:41).
The people of Samaria were not inclined to wait, either. “But when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized” (Acts 8:12). Again, no delay—when they believed, they were baptized.
When an Ethiopian treasurer learned the truth he too was very anxious to be baptized. He said to Philip, “See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?” (Acts 8:36). This treasurer confessed his faith in Jesus, and “both Philip and the Eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him” (Acts 8:38).
The Lord sent Ananias to tell Saul what he “must do,” and he made it clear: “Why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized and wash away your sins” (Acts 22:16). Saul didn’t wait—“he arose and was baptized” (Acts 9:18).
Paul and Silas preached the gospel to a Philippian jailer and his family (Acts 16:32), and here’s how they responded: “And he (jailer) took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he (jailer) and all his family were baptized” (Acts 16:33).
Why were all these people baptized right away? It’s really very simple. They had to be baptized to have their sins forgiven, or washed away (Acts 2:38; 22:16)—even though they had already confessed their faith in Jesus and repented of their sins. They clearly understood they could not be saved until they were baptized (please read 1 Peter 3:21).
Do YOU need to be baptized for the remission of your sins? If you believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and if you are willing to repent or turn from your sins, please don’t wait. Do just what the people above did—do it immediately; do it today.

Happy 90th
My mother turned 90 on September 4th. Many years ago (1983), during my last year at Western Kentucky University, I decided to go back home and finish the courses for my degree at a school near my parents’ home. One of my best decisions, because I got to once again sit at the feet of my Mom and Dad and profit from their great wisdom. It helped to ground me as I got ready to enter the "real world." My Dad passed away in 2007, but I'm so thankful to still have my Mom, and I'm still learning from her (even more so with her back in Prattville).
“The words of King Lemuel, the utterance which his mother taught him” (Proverbs 31:1). He then goes on to record in the next eight verses some things his mother taught him. I’m certain it would take me a lot more than eight verses to record ALL my mother has taught me (which was probably the case with this king, too).
One thing she taught me is you don’t get to retire from working for the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58). She’s always “done all she could” (Mark 14:8), even when she didn’t feel very well. Knowing she'll get to rest in eternity (Hebrews 4:1-11), she’s been determined to do all she can for as long as she can.
She also taught me the importance of conviction. Her stand for truth has not been without personal cost to her, but she has been unwavering (Colossians 1:23). That example has been of immeasurable value to me.
Thank you, God, for the 60 plus years of training you have provided for me, first through both my Mom and Dad, and then continuing even to this day through my Mom.

Contact Information
	P.O. Box 680872 / Prattville, AL 36067
	(334) 868-0801
	prattmont@gmail.com / prattmontchurchofchrist.org

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The Prattmont Church of Christ is just what the name suggests, a church that belongs to Christ. We are not a denomination; we are simply a group of Christians trying very hard to practice the teachings of our Head, Jesus Christ. The New Testament offers a complete pattern for what each local church should be like—its organization, its worship, its work, etc. We are committed to following that pattern. We cordially invite you to attend our services. We would also welcome any comments or questions about this bulletin.

TIMES OF SERVICES:
Sunday
Bible Classes………...9 A.M.
Worship 10:00 A.M.
Worship/Bible Study..5 P.M.
Wednesday:
Bible Study 7:00 P.M.