What is baptism?
Baptism is the act of a BELIEVING Christian who wants to publicly confess their commitment to Jesus Christ. It is the symbolic WASHING AWAY of one’s old, sinful past and the RISING TO LIFE in God’s grace. The act of baptism is an outward expression of an inward decision.
What does baptism mean?
Baptism illustrates Jesus’ DEATH, BURIAL, and RESURRECTION. “Christ died for our sins… was buried… and rose agin.” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Baptism illustrates our new life in Christ. “By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead… so also we may live a new life.” (Romans 6:4). Baptism does not make you a believer. It is a demonstration that you already believe. It is important to understand that baptism does not “save” you. You are “saved” only by your faith in Jesus.
Why do we get baptized?
To follow the example set by Christ and because Christ COMMANDED it. Jesus said, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
When should we be baptized?
Baptism should take place after conversion. “But when they believed Philip, as he proclaimed the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized.” (Acts 8:12) Baptism should take place at the first opportunity after conversion. “He took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds. Right away he and all his family were baptized.” (Acts 16:33)