What Is Baptism?
The Bible presents baptism as an outward sign of faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. Christian baptism is an act of obedience to the command of Jesus, declaring the believer’s faith in and identification with their crucified, buried, and risen Savior. Baptism is a visible sermon of the gospel of Jesus Christ, identifying the Christian with his death, burial and resurrection (Matt. 28:19–20; Rom. 6:1–11; 1 Cor. 12:13; Col. 2:12).
How Is Someone Baptized?
The Greek word used for baptism in the New Testament, baptizo, means “to plunge, dip, or immerse in water.” For example, in the secular ancient Greek, this word was used to explain things such as the sinking of a ship that had been submerged in water. In baptism, the believer is immersed beneath the water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. We baptize Christians in the same way as Jesus: immersed in water and then brought up out of the water (Mark 1:10; Acts 8:34–39).
Who Should Be Baptized?
The New Testament consistently demonstrates that those who are baptized are people who have put their trust in Jesus and turned from sin. Therefore, baptism is reserved solely for those who have received Jesus as their Lord and Savior. In addition, Jesus commanded that all Christians should be baptized (Matt. 28:19).
Thinking About Being Baptized?
If you’re interested in being baptized or want a better understanding of baptism by immersion, please email us.