Matthew 28:16-19 But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. And when they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. And Jesus came up and spoke to them saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. God therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” --NASB In the name of the One Who commanded the apostles to baptize, amen.
It seems unbelievable that Jesus would give the authority of making disciples to men who doubted Him, but He did. Jesus gave them the incredible power of Baptism in order to make disciples. Baptism is a means of grace that belongs to the whole church, and therefore the faith of the person who administers it does not matter. Those who are called as ministers act in the name and stead of Christ for the good of the Church. The power of Baptism comes from God’s word, which is connected with the water. It is because of the word that Baptism has the power to create faith and make disciples. If it depended on the faith of the person administering it, we could never know for certain that it accomplished what God promises. But since it depends on God’s word, we have complete certainty that we are adopted as God’s children through holy Baptism. Amen.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, because You received all power and authority, You commanded the apostles to make disciples through holy Baptism. More than that You have shown us that it is not the faith of the person who baptizes that gives Baptism it wonderful power, but Your holy word. Thank You for Your wisdom and grace. Help us never to despise Baptism, but to cherish it as a powerful means of grace, amen.