Baptism
What is Baptism?
The Bible teaches that baptism is a symbol – an outward expression of an inward decision. Some call it “an outward act to proclaim an inward fact”.
It illustrates Christ’s death, burial and resurrection.
It symbolizes my new life as a Christian.
It demonstrates my faith.
In the life of every Christian, it is an important first step of obedience to God in which I declare, to others, my faith in Christ. Baptism identifies a Christian with Christ and His local church. (Acts 2:41-42; Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:4)
Is Baptism for me?
The Bible teaches that every person who has believed in Christ should be baptized. Baptism does not save or wash away sins. It is an outward expression of your decision to accept Christ. It demonstrates that you already believe. If you have accepted Christ and never been baptized, you should choose to be baptized as soon as you can.
Why should I be baptized?
There are three main biblical reasons to be baptized:
1. Christ commanded it. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)
2. Believers in the Bible practiced it. “Those who accepted his message were baptized.” (Acts 2:41)
3. Christ was our example. “At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.” (Mark 1:9)
How should I be baptized?
The word “Baptize” is derived from the Greek work “baptizo” which means to immerse or dip under. Baptism in water by immersion best represents a picture of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Christ himself was baptized this way. “As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water.” (Matthew 3:16)
When should I be baptized?
In the Bible, baptism took place right after salvation. There is no reason to delay. You should choose to be baptized as soon as you can after your salvation decision. (Acts 16:30-33)
What if I’m not baptized?
While baptism is not required for salvation, it is an important step of obedience to Christ. By not being baptized, I am disobeying Christ and missing the blessing of committing myself to Him through obedience and losing the testimony I might have through my public identification with Him. (John 15:14)
