What exactly is baptism? The word "baptism" as
it appears in the Bible means immersion (the process of submersion in water followed by
emergence from the water).
Scholars agree that the baptism of the Bible is immersion. The following examples from the
Bible substantiate that conclusion: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He came up out of
the water." Matthew 3:16. "Then Philip and the eunuch went down into the water
and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water." Acts 8:37,38. Note the
descriptions of the baptisms - "down into the water," "came up out of the
water."
What is the significance of baptism?
Baptism is for salvation (Mark 16:16) and for forgiveness or washing away of sins (Acts
2:28; 22:16). It is the way we receive the grace by which we are saved (Eph. 2:8). Our
response of baptism makes it possible for God to bring us back to Him, clothing us in the
righteousness of Christ.
Two descriptive word pictures are given in the Bible to explain what happens at baptism.
1. "Don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized
into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order
that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may
live a new life." Romans 6:3 (see also Colossians 2:1) We are identifying with Jesus'
experience and demonstrating outwardly in our baptism that:
- we are dying to our old life and the ways of sin.
- we are burying that old life of sin.
- and we are rising to live the new life.
2. "For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with
Christ." - Galatians 3:27.
We are demonstrating by our baptism that we are:
- taking off the old clothes of our sinful nature and lifestyle,
- and putting on new clothes of Jesus' nature and lifestyle.
We put on Jesus' values and His priorities. We surrender to Jesus' way. We make Him
Lord of our lives, as well as Savior. That means - "I'm no longer the boss of my
life. Jesus is." (Galatians 2:20)
Why should I be baptized?
1. Because Jesus was baptized. He is our model, our example, in everything we think and
do. Read Matthew 3:13-17.
Jesus came to John the Baptist at the River Jordan to be baptized. John, however, balked
at doing such a thing, saying that Jesus should instead be baptizing him (John).
"Jesus replied, 'Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all
righteousness.'" (v. 15) Jesus said it is proper - it is the right thing to do. So
John baptized Him. And immediately afterward, God expressed how pleased He was with Jesus'
actions. Jesus said baptism was the right thing to do, and then He followed through with
action.
2. Because Jesus commanded it.
After His resurrection and before His ascension to heaven, Jesus left these final
directions to His followers (which includes us): "All authority in heaven and earth
has been given to me. 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, and teaching them to obey
everything I have commanded you." Matthew 28:18-20. See also Mark 16:15,16.
3. Because baptism was an integral part of every conversion experience recorded in the
book of Acts (which tells about the actions and beliefs of the first Christians and the
congregations that formed after Jesus' ascension). Note the following examples of the
apostles, their associates, and the first Christians baptized:
- groups of people being baptized - Acts 2:41; 8:12
- Paul being baptized - Acts 8:34-39; 9:18; 22:11-16
- Cornelius being baptized - Acts 10:47,48
- Lydia and her household being baptized - Acts 16:13-15
- Philippian jailer and his household being baptized - Acts 16:33,34
- Corinthians being baptized - Acts 18:8
- Ephesians being baptized - Acts 19:5
Note that though each situation varied in some aspects, all who were baptized expressed
belief in Jesus and were baptized immediately. We are saying that baptism is a part of
becoming a Christian.
4. Because it is a way to witness to others of your belief in Christ and your resulting
commitment. Though it may seem scary and humiliating to be involved in such a public act
of surrender, it translates into a powerful witness to all who view it.
How will I know when I am ready to be baptized?
You are ready to be baptized:
When you believe that Jesus is the Son of God and are ready to receive Jesus as your
Savior.
When you are ready to repent - ready to turn your life around.
When you are ready to put your past behind you and put your life in Jesus' hands. Read
Acts 2:38, Colossians 3:5-10, John 1:12,13.
Who should baptize me?
Any Christian can have the privilege of baptizing another. It would be appropriate for the
Christian who led you to belief in Christ, the Christian who is a great influence in your
life, the Christian whom you greatly respect.
What steps should I take?
1. Respond to the invitation in any of our services by coming to the front or talk to one
of our ministers or elders.
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Baptism