Series Resources

sermon-based study guide

This guide is designed to guide a group discussion around the weekend sermon. You can also use this as an individual, but we highly recommend finding a friend and inviting them to discuss with you. Menlo Church has Life Groups meeting in-person and online using these guides. We’d love to help you find a group.

What you will find in this guide: A discussion guide for groups and individuals. If you are using this as an individual be sure to engage with each question in a journal or simply in your mind as you prayerfully consider what you heard in the sermon and seek to discover what God is inviting you to know and do.

Spiritual Formation Resource Page: Baptism- Your Story Matters

Spiritual Formation Resource Page

Baptism: No Second-Class Stories

Acts 10:44-48

Why Baptism Matters

Baptism is an outward sign of an inward change—a public declaration of faith in Jesus. It symbolizes dying to an old way of life and rising to new life in Christ (Romans 6:3-4).

In Acts 10, Cornelius and his household experience God’s power, breaking cultural barriers and proving that faith in Jesus is for everyone. With Jesus, there are no second-class stories. Your past, background, or doubts don’t disqualify you. Baptism is an invitation to step fully into God’s grace.

Reflect on Your Faith Story

Read: Acts 10:1-8, 34-48

What to Do: Take 15 minutes to write out key moments in your faith journey. How did you first encounter Jesus? What has shaped your belief? If you’ve already been baptized, reflect on what it meant to you.

Questions to Consider:

What has God done in your life that makes you want to follow Him?
Do you feel like your story is “enough” for baptism? Why or why not?
How does Cornelius’ story challenge the way you view God’s invitation to faith?

‍

Take the Next Step

Read: Matthew 28:19-20; Romans 6:3-4

What to Do: If you’ve never been baptized, ask yourself what’s holding you back. If you’re ready, reach out to your church about taking this step.

Questions to Consider:

What does baptism symbolize in your own words?
What hesitations do you have about being baptized?
What would it look like to step into faith boldly, like Cornelius?

‍

Live Out Your Baptism Daily

Read: Colossians 3:1-4; 2 Corinthians 5:17

What to Do: Whether you were baptized years ago or just recently, commit to making your faith visible through your actions. Choose one way this week to reflect Christ—whether through kindness, sharing your story, or serving others.

Questions to Consider:

How does your daily life reflect the new identity you have in Christ?
What’s one way you can actively live out your baptism this week?
Who in your life might need to hear your faith story?

Next Steps: Take Action (Link Here)

If you’ve never been baptized: Pray about it, talk to a pastor, and consider taking this step.
If you have been baptized: Reflect on how your faith has grown and commit to sharing your story.
Invite someone into the journey: Who in your life might need to hear how Jesus has changed you?

Baptism is not just a moment—it’s a marker of transformation. Your story matters, and your faith is meant to be shared.

‍