Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
THANK. Write down 3-5 things you’re thankful for in the last 24 hours.
WORSHIP. Pick a song from one of our Spotify Playlists and let it play in the background.
READ. Our Scripture Focus is Ephesians 4:1-6. Try memorizing it during this study!
Today’s reading is from Matthew 3:13-17 & Romans 6:1-11 (Go Deeper: John 3:3-6, 1 Peter 3:18-22 & Galatians 3:27)
THINK. A Thought from Pastor Dave…
Today’s readings are on the importance of baptism. Across the spectrum of Christianity, baptism marks a person’s entry into the community of faith and demonstrates a connection with Jesus. Interpretations on the further purposes, meaning, and practice of baptism differ among traditions that faithfully follow Jesus and uphold the authority of Scripture. There are two perspectives on baptism. The first is Infant Baptism. In some traditions, parents are encouraged to have their young children baptized. This baptism ritual is a sign and symbol of God’s promises to His people, the Church. In this view, baptism is a replacement for the symbol of circumcision practiced throughout the Old Testament. Next, there is Believer’s Baptism. In this view, baptism occurs after an individual’s confession of faith. This baptism ritual is an outward sign and symbol of a personal, inward experience of belief in Jesus. In this view, it is belief, or “circumcision of the heart,” that replaces the symbol of circumcision. (This is generally the view and practice at Paradox Church.) Either way, Jesus, in His own baptism, demonstrates the new life accomplished for us in His death and resurrection. Baptism is an external sign belonging to the people of God. Want more information about getting baptized? Head to paradoxchurch.com/baptism and let us know you’re interested in being baptized!
LIVE. One practical way to understand and apply the Bible is the SOS method. Ask…
S: What does this passage say about God, and what does it say about me?
O: What am I being invited to obey?
S: What can I share with those around me?
PRAY. Pray for yourself, a family member, a lifegroup/church friend, someone who doesn’t know Jesus, and the nations. Pick one each day or pray through them all every day.
CONNECT. Have a question, prayer request, or story? Let us know here or reply via text.
SHARE. Invite a friend to read the Focus with you! Just text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

Run the race with endurance today, and stay focused on Jesus.
Make it a Great One!