Worship Tools

Worship Outline 1

Additional Scriptures 

Genesis 1:1–5, Psalm 29, Acts 19:1–7

Preparation

Recruit participants for the Focus Moment drama.

Ask two people ahead of time to prepare testimonies of commitment.

The scripture on this day provides a good opportunity for the sacrament of baptism. Where to insert it into the service is noted below.

Prelude 

Gathering Song 

“Come Away from Rush and Hurry” CCS 83 

OR “Gather Your Children” CCS 77 

Welcome and Community Sharing 

Prayer for Community Joys and Concerns 

Call to Worship Responsive Reading 

Leader: Give glory to our God, you heavenly court, 
give our God glory and strength! 
Give forth the glory that God’s Name deserves, 
and worship our God in the splendor of holiness! 

People: And in God’s temple all cry, “Glory!” 

Leader: The voice of our God resounds over the waters; 
the God of glory thunders over the raging seas. 
God’s voice is powerful, 
God’s voice is full of majesty. 

People: And in God’s temple all cry, “Glory!” 

Leader: Give strength to your people, God! 
Bless your people with peace! 

People: And in God’s temple all cry, “Glory!” 

—Based on Psalm 29 

Hymn of Glory 

“Arise, Your Light Is Come!” CCS 635 

OR “I Will Sing, I Will Sing”   CCS 112 

Encourage people to sing in languages other than their own. 

Prayer of Invitation 

Response 

Prayer for Peace 

Lighting the peace candle 

Prayer

Dear God, today I light a candle and pray for peace for all people. I do this because I feel the need to do something, but I do not know what to do. May your Spirit come and remind us that what we do does matter and praying peace for someone is never a waste of time. Help us understand it is our responsibility to promote peace in the world. Show us how we can be disciples and actively engage in the church’s mission to Pursue Peace on Earth. 

We light a candle today to represent the hope inside us for peace for everyone, especially those living in despair and misery. The candle and our lives now shine to spread light and hope. We all have the power to bring our individual hope for peace together as one in Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Sing for Peace 

“Peace Child” CCS 402 

OR “One Common Prayer” repeat several times CCS 313 

Disciples’ Generous Response 

Scripture Reading on God’s Goodness: Genesis 1:1–5 

Demonstration: Church’s Spiritual Water Gauge

Set up a station with a basket for receiving mission tithes. Next to this place a large, empty clear container and several glasses or mugs filled with water. Ask people to come forward to give their offering and to pour a full glass of water into the large container. Invite young volunteers to do this for anyone who is unable to come forward. 

NOTE: Use your judgment in choosing glasses and a container so the water will be several inches deep. The container of water will be used in the Focus Moment that follows the hymn or scripture reading below. 

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes 

Hymn 

“Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart” CCS 48 

OR “When Jesus Came to Jordan” CCS 442 

OR “O Lord, We Come as Children All” CCS 510 

Focus Moment 

Drama: Mark 1:4–11

Prepare a short drama to act out the story of Jesus’ baptism. Actors may take the parts of Jesus and John, the crowd, the dove, and the “voice of God.” 

Reflection Time

After acting out the story encourage listeners to use their senses to imagine what the sand, water, and breeze might have felt like. Project or print the following questions for all to see.

• What would you hear, smell, and see in this story? 
• Where do you see community in this story? 
• What community is there when someone is baptized or confirmed in our group? 

Hymn 

“On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry” CCS 391 

OR “With Water Freely Flowing” CCS 502 

Testimonies of Commitment 

Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 164:3a 

Testimony: How am I fully immersed in the servant life of Christ? 

Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 164:3b 

Testimony: How do I live out the meaning of my baptism every day and grow as a disciple? 

Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 164:3c 

Reflection on Your Baptism and Invitation to Consider Baptism 

Allow time for participants to recall their baptism. What impact has this baptism had on your life? 

This would be an appropriate time to insert the sacrament of baptism if there are candidates who want to  make this commitment. 

Song of Confession 

“Redeeming Grace” CCS 497 

OR “Healing River of the Spirit” CCS 232 

Charge to Our Community 

Based on Mark 1:4–11

Prayer of Dedication 

Song of Commitment 

“Community of Joy” CCS 631 

OR “Help Us Express Your Love” CCS 621 

Sending Forth 

Be baptized of water and the Spirit and discover your spiritual home. Live the meaning of your baptism daily; become fully immersed in the servant life of Christ. Let your life be a witness of God’s love.

—Based on Doctrine and Covenants 164:3a–c 

Postlude 

Worship Outline 2

Additional Scriptures

Genesis 1:1–5; Psalm 29; Acts 19:1–7

Prelude

Welcome

How often do you think about your baptism? What stands out to you the most as you remember that day? On this first Sunday after the Epiphany, we remember Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist. It is the first glimpse of Jesus as a grownup that the Gospel of Mark provides. The scene in today’s scripture establishes Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, a theme which is repeated throughout the book of Mark. Today’s worship offers us the opportunity to reflect on our own baptismal experiences and claim more fully the promises of that day.

Call to Worship: Psalm 29:1–5, 11

Hymn of Welcome

“Draw the Circle Wide” CCS 273

OR “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing” CCS 92

Invocation

Response

Scripture Reading: Mark 1:4-11

Focus Moment Story: Lollipop Ministry

Read or summarize this mission story.

My husband and I are volunteers with the World Service Corps in Taipei, Taiwan. We don’t speak Chinese, but many residents understand some English. However, we have become very good at gestures, and the people are very patient.

A 7-Eleven convenience store sits two doors from our church entrance. Every Sunday we stop to pick up milk for the coffee we serve in Bible class. One morning in the store, I noticed a young mother struggling with three small, disruptive children. The frustrated mother was trying, unsuccessfully, to calm the children. As I stood at the counter, I spotted a jar of lollipops. I quickly bought three and gave them to the children.

The mother was startled. In broken English, she began to talk to me. I was struggling to understand when I saw one of our bilingual church members, Tina, walking by the store. I called her in and asked her to explain to the woman who I was. As soon as the mother heard “minister,” her eyes lit up. She asked for directions to our church, saying she would come the next week.

The following Sunday she arrived with her three children. She came in time for Bible class and stayed for worship. Our members welcomed her, and she told us what had prompted her to accept our invitation. She said the morning we had met; she had felt overwhelmed by life.

“I just looked up and cried out, asking if there was any place for me where I could find peace,” she said. “The smile on the face of this lady and the gift of the lollipops reminded me there are good people in the world. I love this little church. Already you feel like family.”

Since then she and her children have attended faithfully, bringing other friends. She was present when Apostle Mareva Arnaud Tchong visited Taipei. During worship, the mother asked her for a special blessing.

In our pursuit of peace I had not valued lollipops as ministerial tools, but they opened the door to possibilities.                

—Vera Entwistle

As time allows, invite participants to turn to those close by and discuss the following suggestions and questions. Print or project the suggestions and questions for all to see.

Discussion Questions

1. Identify locations close by or elsewhere in your community where you might encounter strangers and invite them to Christ.
2. Brainstorm possibilities in your community where you  could partner with another organization (for example, a school or community group) that would provide an opportunity to talk with people and invite them to Christ.
3. What group interests would provide a service for others and allow for invitations to Christ? (Examples include: tending a community garden, participating in an ecology project, hosting children’s activities, planting trees or flowers in the community, stocking a local pantry, walking in a 5K for a worthy cause, picking up litter.)

Reading: Remember Your Baptism

Voice 1: All church members are urged to examine the depth of your baptismal commitment.

Voice 2: And the disciples whom Jesus had chosen began from that time to baptize and to teach as many as came to them.

Voice 1: Having been baptized and confirmed, become fully immersed in the servant life of Christ.

Voice 2: And they who were baptized in the name of Jesus were called the church of Christ.

Voice 1: Live the meaning of your baptism daily!

Voice 2: Restore Christ’s covenant of peace, even the Zion of your hopes!

Voices 1 & 2: Remember your baptism and be glad!

—adapted from 3 Nephi 12:10, 13 and Doctrine and Covenants 164:3a–b

Prayer of Thanksgiving

Ask someone prior to the service to be prepared to offer a prayer of thanksgiving for baptism and the promises of God.

Hymn of Baptism

“See What Love We Have Been Given!” CCS 496

OR “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” CCS 499

Prayer for Peace

Light the peace candle

Prayer

O Lord, we pray today for the many people of the world who are divided into countless nations and tongues. Deliver us from every evil that gets in the way of your mission, and fulfill the promise of peace on Earth among persons with whom you are pleased; through Christ Jesus.

Deliver us, we pray:

From the curse of war and the iniquity of humans that causes war.

From pride that turns its back on you, God, and from unbelief that will not call you Lord;

From the self-righteousness that will not compromise, and from selfishness that gains by the oppression of others; 

From the lust for money or power that drives people to kill; 

From trusting in the weapons of war, and mistrusting the councils of peace; 

Creator and Sustainer, by the power of your Holy Spirit we have been drawn together by one baptism into one faith, serving our Lord and Savior. Do not let us tear away from one another through division or argument. May your peace embrace our differences, preserving us in unity, as one body of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Sermon

Based on Mark 1:4-11

Hymn of Dedication

“With a Word, You Birthed Creation” CCS 17

OR “By Gracious Powers/Von guten Mächten treu und still umgeben” CCS 268

Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.

Disciples’ Generous Response

Read aloud CCS 621, “Help Us Express Your Love.”

Statement

Use the following to prepare your statement on A Disciple’s Generous Response:

• How do you express love through generosity?
• What does it look like to accept God’s grace in one’s own life in order to share unconditional love with individuals and community?
• The first Sunday of the month focuses on Abolish Poverty, End Suffering which includes Oblation and World Hunger ministry.

Six principles of A Disciples’ Generous Response guide us in managing and sharing our resources: Receive God’s Gifts, Respond Faithfully, Align Heart and Money, Share Generously, Save Wisely, and Spend Responsibly. When we consider the ways each principle applies in our lives, we respond faithfully and begin to align our priorities with God’s priorities, align our hearts with God’s heart.

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes

Hymn of Commitment

“I Will Sing, I Will Sing” CCS 112

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.

“Now Let Us from This Table Rise” CCS 644

Benediction and Sending Forth

May God’s Spirit of peace rest upon you, God’s beloved. By your baptism you have been marked as God’s own forever. May you go forth in joy, knowing God’s grace. May you have hope, walking the path together and may you know love—God’s love of all and your love for one another. Amen.

Response

Postlude 

Sacred Space: Small-Group Worship Outline

Gathering

Welcome

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.
Light the peace candle.

O Lord, we pray today for the many people of the world who are divided into seemingly countless nations and tongues. Through Christ Jesus, deliver us from every evil that gets in the way of your mission and fulfill the promise of peace on Earth among persons with whom you are pleased.

Deliver us, we pray:

From the curse of war and the iniquity of humans that causes war; from pride that turns its back on you, God, and from unbelief that will not call you Lord; from the self-righteousness that will not compromise; from selfishness that gains by the oppression of others; from the lust for money or power that drives people to kill; from trusting in the weapons of war, and mistrusting the councils of peace.

Creator and Sustainer, by the power of your Holy Spirit we have been drawn together by  baptism into one faith, serving our Lord and Savior. Do not let us tear away from one another through division or argument. May your peace embrace our differences, preserving us in unity, as one body of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Spiritual Practice

Prayer of Examen

The prayer of examen is a prayer form developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola (1491–1556).

It often is prayed at the end of the day but may be used any time as a way of reviewing a period with God. The intent is to recognize where we need forgiveness and healing, reconciliation and recommitment. The following is an adapted prayer of examen.

Lead the group through the prayer line by line. Take your time, inviting people to pray and meditate with each statement. The prayer:

Thank you God for the gifts of life and this day.

Allow us to see the day as we have lived it and in light of your will.

Let us reflect on the events, interactions, and emotions of the day.

Give us insight into the ways our responses were good, life-giving, or healing.

Give us insight into the ways our responses may have been insensitive, unloving, or damaging to others, creation, or self.

May we find in you grace, mercy, forgiveness, healing, reconciliation, and release.

God, we give our tomorrow to you. May you be present in our thoughts, actions, and relationships as we move on to live a new day in the presence of Christ.

Amen.

Invite people to share the thoughts and feelings they experienced.

Sharing Around the Table

Mark 1:4–11 NRSVue

⁴ so John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. ⁵ And the whole Judean region and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him and were baptized by him in the River Jordan, confessing their sins. ⁶ Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. ⁷ He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the strap of his sandals. ⁸ I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

⁹ In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. ¹⁰ And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove upon him.¹¹ And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”

—Mark 1:4-11 NRSVue

John’s ministry and his baptism of Jesus are preparatory for Jesus’ ministry. Mark uses Jesus’ baptism to identify Jesus as “one who is more powerful than I.” However, we wonder, if Jesus was the Son of God and therefore seemingly without sin, why did he need to be baptized for the remission of sins? It may be that seeking baptism showed Jesus’ wish to be united with humans through this ritual. It is as if he were saying, “I am one of you and, therefore, I need to experience what you experience.”

This baptismal experience prepared Jesus to face the temptation in the wilderness that followed immediately. It also marked the beginning of his earthly ministry. Baptism of water and of spirit is a beginning, not an end in itself. Just as Jesus was prepared for his earthly ministry so, too, are we prepared by the sacraments of baptism and confirmation to engage fully in the mission of Jesus Christ, which is “what matters most for the journey ahead” (Doctrine and Covenants 164:9f).

Questions

1. What difference does baptism bring to daily lives as disciples?
2. How might baptism by water and spirit change your life priorities and commitments?
3. How have you experienced the presence of the Holy Spirit?

Sending

Generosity Statement

“Sharing for the common good is the spirit of Zion” (Doctrine and Covenants 165:2f).

We receive God’s grace and generosity. The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

The offering prayer for the season after Epiphany is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Gracious God, May we always be generous. You have gifted each of us with boundless grace and unending love. May our response to that love and grace be humble service to others, and may generosity be part of our nature. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn

CCS 497, “Redeeming Grace”

Closing Prayer

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Optional Additions Depending on Group

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Choose one scripture to read from this selection: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26; Matthew 26:17–30; Mark 14:12–26; Luke 22:7–39.

Invitation to Communion

All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

In preparation let’s sing Community of Christ Sings 520, “God Extends an Invitation.”

Blessing and serving of the bread and wine.

Thoughts for Children

Materials: small tray or shallow basket with several items—a dove, star, heart, four-leaf clover

Show the tray to the children.

Symbols are items or pictures that represent something else. We use symbols to help us better understand ideas or events.

I have several items that can be used as symbols. What item (heart) would you choose as a symbol for love? I could give the heart to someone to help them understand I love them.

What symbol (four-leaf clover) would I give to wish someone good luck.

What might the star symbolize? A good job on homework? Christmas?

The symbol we learn about today is the dove. When Jesus was baptized the dove was a symbol of the Holy Spirit. It is a way of saying that God’s Spirit was there with Jesus.

We still use the dove as a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Let’s place it next to the peace candle to help us understand that God’s Spirit is always with us.

Sermon Helps

Exploring the Scripture

Before diving into today’s text, it may be helpful to briefly consider the book in which it is contained. Mark is regarded as the earliest of the four Gospels, probably written sometime around 60 CE. The author focuses throughout the book on three primary themes: (1) Jesus’ suffering servanthood, (2) the person and authority of Jesus, and (3) the total commitment involved in life as a disciple. The primary concern, however, is declaring who Jesus was.

Although the story of John the Baptist begins the book of Mark, the author doesn’t say much about him. Rather, the focus is more on John’s ministry and his baptism of Jesus as preparatory for Jesus’ continuing ministry. Mark, as does the book of Luke, uses the experience of Jesus’ baptism to make a Christological statement.

John is quoted as identifying Jesus as “one who is more powerful than I” (v. 7). Describing the Holy Spirit “descending like a dove” on Jesus and a voice from heaven saying, “You are my son, the beloved; with you I am well-pleased” shows Jesus as the Son of God (vv. 10–11).

However, the reader is left to ponder the question, “If Jesus was the Son of God and therefore seemingly without sin, why did he need to be baptized for the remission of sins?” Water baptism was practiced in that time for that specific purpose. Some scholars suggest that seeking baptism showed Jesus’ wish to be united with humans through this ritual act and, by it, solidify the human part of his nature. Looking to the book of Matthew, one finds more suggestions Jesus wanted to show his identity and solidarity with humanity. He is quoted as saying he needed to be baptized, “to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). It is as if he was saying, “I am one of you and, therefore, I need to experience what you experience.” Finally, it suggests something of Jesus’ deep humility; a characteristic of Jesus worth our emulation as his disciples.

Regardless of any lingering questions, today’s text makes clear the value, importance, and connectedness of both water baptism and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Followers of Jesus use temporal means (water) to display their willingness to surrender fully to and connect with the Divine and the supporting community. God uses spiritual means (Holy Spirit) to connect with people and the assembled community, thus completing a covenant.

This experience prepared Jesus to face the temptation in the wilderness that followed immediately. It also marked the beginning of his earthly ministry. This chronological order is not lost on the careful reader—baptism of water and of spirit is a beginning, not an end in itself. Just as Jesus was prepared for his earthly ministry, so too are we prepared by the sacraments of baptism and confirmation to engage fully in the mission of Jesus Christ which is “what matters most for the journey ahead” (Doctrine and Covenants 164:9f).

Central Ideas

1. Jesus is shown as the Son of God during the experience related in today’s text.
2. Jesus displayed his connection and solidarity with humankind and modeled the importance of baptism for all who would follow him.
3. Baptism of water and spirit represents a covenant between an individual and God and marks the beginning of that individual’s life as a disciple rather than being an end in itself.

Questions for the Speaker

1. What do you remember about your own baptism of water and spirit that needs to be shared with this congregation on this day?
2. What strength or power does baptism of water and spirit bring to our daily lives as disciples?
3. How should baptism by water and spirit change our life priorities and commitments? How have you been transformed by your own baptismal experience?
4. Would you feel comfortable including as part of your sermon an invitation to join Jesus in the baptism of water and spirit?

Lessons

Adult Lesson

Focus Scripture Passage

Mark 1:4–11

Lesson Focus

Discipleship calls us to repentance for choices that separate us from God.

Objectives

The learners will…

• investigate the scope and purpose of the Gospel according to Mark.
• explore the connection between the prophets Elijah and John the Baptizer.
• consider how repentance and discipleship are connected.
• expand their understanding of sacred relationship.

Supplies

• Projection equipment for downloadable video
• Of Water and Spirit, available from Herald House
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)

Notes to teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 1:4–11 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 29–30, available through Herald House.

Preview and download the video overview of Mark at https://bibleproject.com/videos/mark/. This video is 9:31 long.

Gather

Today is the first Sunday after the Epiphany. Epiphany is a Christian celebration on January 6 that commemorates the appearance of the Magi (Gentiles) as a manifestation of Jesus as the Messiah to non-Jews as well as Jews. The word also means “intuitive discovery” or “revelation.” The Gospel according to Mark invites us to witness Jesus and decide for ourselves who this Messiah is to us.

Open the class with a prayer of gratitude for our scriptures that give us insight into Jesus’ life and our role as his disciples.

Engage

Review the description of the Gospel of Mark from a reliable study Bible or show the video referenced above, at least the portion labeled Act 1.

Read together Mark 1:4–11.

John the Baptizer is the first character introduced in this book. His dress, diet, and demeanor are like the Hebrew prophet Elijah. He wears rough, scratchy garments as a reminder of his need to repent of his violations of the Law. His simple but nutritious diet consists of raw or roasted locusts and likely the gum of the tamarind tree, typical of a person who lived in the wilderness.

Discuss:

• Why would Mark use an unusual character like John the Baptizer to first proclaim Jesus?
• In what ways are Elijah and John the Baptizer similar?
• How would you respond if John the Baptizer wanted to preach repentance and declare Jesus in your congregation?

Respond

Review the definitions of repentance and sin found in Of Water and Spirit, p. 49.

Repentance: the act of expressing regret and turning from sin. Its linguistic roots point to its theological meaning of a change of mind and life direction as evidence of repentance (Greek: metanoia).

Sin: God created us to be agents of love and goodness. Yet we misuse our agency individually and collectively. We take the gifts of creation and of self and turn them against God’s purposes with tragic results. Sin is the universal condition of separation and alienation from God and one another. We are in need of divine grace that alone reconciles us with God and one another.

In Community of Christ we baptize by immersion. This sacrament is available to anyone 8 years of age or older.

In small groups or pairs, respond to these questions.

• Why were you baptized?
• In what ways is immersion a symbol of repentance?
• How does baptism change the relationship we have with God?

Send

Invite each one to recall his or her baptism.

In small groups or pairs, respond to these questions.

• How have you grown in discipleship since your baptism?
• When have you experienced repentance and grace?
• What connections do you understand between baptism and the Lord’s Supper?

Bless

Dwell in the words of “On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry” CCS 391. Offer a prayer of hope that comes from our sacred relationship with God.

Youth Lesson

Focus Scripture Passage

Mark 1:4–11

Lesson Focus

The importance of Jesus’ example of baptism

Objectives

The learners will…

• understand that baptism is not just for a select few.
• reaffirm that baptism is an extension of discipleship.
• develop their stories about their own baptisms.

Supplies

• Bible
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)
• Small pieces of paper
• Writing utensils

Notes to teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 1:4–11 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 29–30, available through Herald House.

Arrange for a speaker to come share with the class about baptism.

Gather

As the group gathers, ask them to write what they know about baptism on some small pieces of paper, one thought per paper. Challenge them to contribute as many pieces of paper as they can. The information they contribute could be from personal experience (their own baptism) or observation (a fellow congregation member or from television). After they have exhausted their knowledge of baptism, instruct them to crumble each piece of paper and throw it to a central location in the room. Now have the students collect a few pieces each and read them aloud; this will prevent those who have not been baptized or know relatively little about baptism from being embarrassed. As the students are reading, use this as an opportunity to correct misconceptions or introduce Community of Christ understandings of baptism. Make sure to mention that baptism is a sacrament. If students have little experience with baptism, you can also read to them the Community of Christ statement on baptism below:

Baptism is a personal expression of faith in Jesus Christ. This is how we first express our commitment to lifelong discipleship. We are promising that we will welcome the stranger into our lives, feed the hungry, love our enemies, and visit the sick and the imprisoned.

Ministers of the church perform baptisms by fully immersing the person in water. A person must be at least 8 years old to request a baptism. In Community of Christ this is recognized as the age when a person can fully understand their baptism commitment. Some people baptized of water (age eight or older) in an attitude of humility and repentance and as an expression of faith in Jesus Christ may become Community of Christ members through confirmation.

Engage

Have student volunteers read the story of Jesus’ baptism below. Then ask the following questions to initiate discussion and deeper understanding of the passage.

John’s Perspective

My whole life has been devoted to this task, devoted to preparing the way of the Lord and baptizing people for the remission of sins. I don’t exactly fit in with everyone else. I dress differently and eat bugs and live in the desert, and yet, God loves me and uses what I can give to further God’s Kingdom. Today, I was baptizing people in the Jordan River and an amazing thing happened. Jesus himself, the one I have waited for and prepared for, appeared and asked to be baptized! I am not even worthy of untying his shoes, and he wanted me to baptize him! Jesus insisted, telling me it was important for everyone to experience this sacrament and join in this covenant with God. I agreed and as he was coming out from the water, a dove flew down and landed on him, and I could hear God confirming that this was indeed his son! I am constantly humbled that God would choose me to be a messenger of this good news.

Questions for after reading John’s perspective:

• Why do you think God used John even though people thought he was crazy?
• What does remission of sin mean? (To help guide the conversation on sin away from the “fires of hell,” refer to the Community of Christ statement on sin recorded below.)

God created us to be agents of love and goodness. Yet we misuse our agency individually and collectively. We take the gifts of creation and of self and turn them against God’s purposes with tragic results. Sin is the universal condition of separation and alienation from God and one another. We are in need of divine grace that alone reconciles us with God and one another.

—Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 34

• Have you ever faced a challenge in your life that you didn’t think you were equipped for? How did God help you?

Jesus’ Perspective

I’d never met him before, well except when we were both still in our mother’s wombs, but I knew it was him instantly. His name is John and he was baptizing people in the Jordan. I knew that my approaching time of ministry would be challenging and this covenant was an important part of my preparation. John told me he wasn’t worthy to baptize me and instead tried to convince me to baptize him. I reminded him that to God we are all of inestimable worth and it was important for each of us to be baptized as part of our discipleship journey. He eventually agreed and baptized me. As I rose out of the water, I saw a dove flying above me. When it landed on me, I heard my God’s voice, calling me son and telling me he was pleased. The dove showed that I had been baptized by water and by the Spirit.

Questions for after reading Jesus’ perspective:

• Why do you think it was important for Jesus to be baptized?
• What does “descending like a dove” represent?
• Who does God think is worthy of baptism? What are the requirements?

A Crowd Member’s Perspective

Today I saw something I can’t fully explain. I was watching an odd man, John the Baptist, baptizing people in the Jordan. Many people were getting into the water and being dunked underneath it. I thought about joining them, but I wasn’t sure it was a good idea. The man was wearing camel skins for clothes, after all! Then, another man came and asked John to baptize him. At first John refused because he felt he wasn’t worthy to untie the man’s shoes, let alone baptize him. The man insisted and as he was being raised from the water, a dove landed on him. I heard a voice from heaven that I know belonged to God. The voice said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; and with him I am well pleased.” In that moment, I knew I had just seen Jesus, the Messiah, be baptized and I knew that I, too, would follow his example. At first, I was worried that I wasn’t worthy enough to be baptized; I’ve made many mistakes in my life. But then, I remembered that God used John the Baptist, and God wants us all to be a part of that baptismal covenant, no matter what the world thinks of us.

Questions for after reading a crowd member’s perspective:

• How does sharing our baptismal experience help others decide about their own?
• If you have been baptized, what is something about the experience you think is important to share?

Respond

Share the story of your own baptism or ask a guest to come in and share theirs. Talk about how you were transformed by the experience and mention a time or two in your life when you were able to share that experience with someone else. If time allows, open the conversation to the class to share their experiences or experiences they have heard about. This is a great opportunity to allow them to share their stories without putting anyone who has not been baptized on the spot.

Remind students of our Mission Initiatives. You can even challenge them to see if they can name all five. Mention that each is equally important but ask which one they think Jesus’ baptism most relates to. Answers may vary. Honor the answers shared, as each Mission Initiative could connect to this scripture. However, take specific care to highlight the Mission Initiative Invite People to Christ. Remind them that the sacrament of baptism was intended by God for anyone who wishes to journey as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Offer up that invitation for baptism to those who have not yet been baptized without naming anyone specifically. Connect those who are interested with more information about pre-baptismal classes.

Send

Challenge the class to look for ways this week to intentionally Invite People to Christ. Encourage them to notice times when the Holy Spirit is guiding them in this effort.

Bless

Close by singing “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” CCS 499, focusing specifically on the stanza asking, “Will you decide now, to follow Jesus?”

Children’s Lesson

Focus Scripture Passage

Genesis 1:1–5 and Mark 1:4–11

Lesson Focus

God brings order out of dark, formless, watery chaos.

Objectives

The learners will…

• compare the two baptisms in Community of Christ.
• learn how God and Jesus provide examples for disciples to follow.
• explain an activity they know how to do.
• discover that they are also examples and lights of the world.

Supplies

• Flashlights
• Small battery-operated candles for each student
• Paper and pens, markers, crayons
• Candle pattern for each student
• Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648)
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)

Note to teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Genesis 1:1–5 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 33–34, and Mark 1: 4–11 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B, New Testament, pp. 29-30, available through Herald House.

Gather

Before the students arrive, tip some of the chairs over and move others away from the table. Put several items on the floor or spilled over the table. Turn off the lights, leaving the door open for those who have trouble with complete darkness. Stand by the light switch so the students can’t turn it on.

As the students arrive, say nothing about the room arrangement. If some start to pick up, let them. After most have come into the room, ask them what they thought when they saw the room. What might help them straighten the room? Turn on the flashlight and work with them to bring the room to order. As they continue to pick up, turn on the full light.

Engage

The scripture for today is from the beginning of time. Read the Basic Beliefs statement below:

Creation

As an expression of divine love, God created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them, and called them “good.” Everything belongs to God and should be cherished and used justly according to divine purposes. God sees creation as a whole without separation of spirit and element. God calls people of every generation to join with God as stewards in the loving care of creation.”

—Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 34

Read Genesis 1:1–5. In this scripture passage, the listener hears how God brought order out of chaos and created day and night. If God can do that, God can be with us through whatever we encounter.

Discuss aspects of nature around them or places they have seen. Consider the awesome power and beauty of a God who created a world like the one in which they live.

The other scripture passage (Mark 1:4–11) is the story of Jesus’ baptism. For years, John the Baptizer had been telling people he was preparing them for the Chosen One. People would listen to him and repent of their sins before they were baptized by water.

Then Jesus arrived. Ask the students to imagine if Jesus came to them. How would the students feel? What would they think or do? For John, this was an amazing experience. He had known the Chosen One would be coming, and John had said he would recognize him. John had been waiting and preparing, but when Jesus came, he surprised John. Jesus asked to be baptized just as all the other people had asked! But John didn’t think he should baptize Jesus. He thought Jesus should baptize him.

But just as God made things orderly by bringing light to the darkness, Jesus came to help people learn how to love each other and follow God. He was to be an example and wanted people to follow what he did.

Read the story of Jesus’ baptism, “You Are Chosen,” in Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 78–79.

Discuss what happened with Jesus at his baptism. At first, his baptism was like all the others. John took him into the water and he was immersed. But then, after his baptism, the heavens opened, and a dove came to him. Read about the sacrament of confirmation below.

Confirmation

As Jesus came out of the water (Matthew 3: 3–16), the Holy Spirit, represented as a dove, descended on him. As followers of Jesus, we are baptized of water and the Holy Spirit. Following baptism of water, new disciples take part in the sacrament of confirmation. It “confirms” membership in Community of Christ, and affirms the Holy Spirit’s continued blessing for each disciple

—Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 45

Ask those who have been baptized and confirmed how Jesus’ baptism and confirmation is connected to their experiences. How did they feel during each part: the baptism of water and the confirmation of the Holy Spirit?

For those who haven’t been baptized, ask if they can see why Jesus asked to be baptized. (Be cautious when sharing about baptism for those who aren’t yet baptized. Sometimes it isn’t completely their choice as parents must be part of the decision, but it is also valuable to talk about baptism and students’ feelings about it. We often forget to ask, and someone has been waiting for our invitation.)

Respond

Have the students draw pictures of two or three activities they like to do, either indoors or outdoors: cooking, reading, math, science, playing an instrument, sports, drawing, building items, riding a bike.

• How did they learn to do these activities?

Some activities are part of growing up: learning to crawl, to smile, to talk, to walk. But others require someone to show them what to do: learning another language, running for a race.

• Whom do they want to teach them? What qualities do they look for in a teacher? Where can they look for help? With technology, many directions can now be found on the internet. How do they know they are finding the right teacher?

Help them understand that those who can do an activity are the best to teach them. That is why Jesus was baptized. God wanted the people to follow the example of Jesus. Just as the people came to John to be baptized, Jesus came, too. Just as God knew to organize the chaos, he knew the people on Earth needed someone to guide them and show them the way.

Have each student pick one of their activities they most enjoy or feel strong in. Let them share what it takes to be successful and help their classmates know what is necessary. If a larger group, have them form pairs and take turns teaching their partner basic elements of the activity. Encourage students to ask questions to help them understand what is being shared. At the end, ask if anyone is considering learning something new based on what they saw or heard.

Send

God created light out of darkness and brought order to chaos. Jesus brought light to the world and is often referred to as the Light of the World. What other stories, songs, or scripture passages have students heard about light? (“This Little Light of Mine” might be mentioned.) Discuss how one candle, one light can change a room. What can happen with many lights?

Disciples or followers of Jesus are God’s light on Earth. Each person can make a difference, no matter how big or small, or how young or old. Each person has their own gifts to share with those around them. They can be the example to those around them who may not know God or Jesus. Have students list ways they can make a difference during the coming week.

Have them color the picture of the candle. Put their name on the candlestick as a reminder that they are a light. Surrounding the picture they can write ways they can make a difference in the world. Tell the students to put their candle pictures in a place where they can remember that they are called to be a light to the world.

BlessLESS

Stand in a circle. Give each student a battery-operated candle. Have one student light their candle. Then turn out the lights and ask the students to go around the circle lighting their candles.

Read the words “I Wish God’s Love to Be with You” CCS 663 as a blessing on them. Collect battery candles.