Baptism
🕊 Baptism
1. What is Baptism?
Baptism is a public declaration of a personal faith in Jesus Christ. It is an outward symbol of an inward reality: a person’s repentance, cleansing from sin, and new life in Christ.
-
Greek word “baptizo” means “to immerse” or “to submerge.”
-
Baptism is not what saves us, but it is an act of obedience that follows salvation.
Acts 2:38 – “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”
2. Why is Baptism Important?
a. Commanded by Jesus
Matthew 28:19 – “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…”
Jesus instructed His followers to baptize new disciples as part of the Great Commission.
b. Follow Jesus’ Example
Matthew 3:13-17 – Jesus Himself was baptized by John the Baptist, showing us the way of obedience and humility.
c. Identifies Us with Christ
Romans 6:3-4 – “Don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? ... in order that… we too may live a new life.”
Baptism symbolizes our unity with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection.
3. What Does Baptism Symbolize?
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Water | Cleansing from sin (Acts 22:16) |
| Immersion | Death and burial of the old life (Romans 6:4) |
| Coming out of water | Resurrection to new life (Colossians 2:12) |
4. Who Should Be Baptized?
-
Only those who have repented and put their faith in Jesus Christ.
-
In the New Testament, belief always came before baptism.
Acts 8:36-37 – The Ethiopian said, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” Philip replied, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.”
Baptism is for believers, not for infants or people who have not yet made a personal decision to follow Christ.
5. How Should Baptism Be Done?
-
By full immersion in water, as practiced in the New Testament.
-
Symbolizes complete identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.
John 3:23 – “…because there was plenty of water…”
6. What Happens After Baptism?
-
The believer is now part of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:13).
-
It often marks a turning point: a fresh commitment, increased accountability, and a new walk with the Holy Spirit.
-
Baptism is followed by discipleship, growth in the Word, fellowship, and service.
🪔 Application
-
If you are a believer and haven’t been baptized yet, consider taking this important step of obedience.
-
If you’ve been baptized, reflect on your commitment to Christ. Are you walking in the new life you declared?
-
Encourage others by sharing your baptism testimony—it can be powerful!
Comments
Post a Comment
Plz do not enter any spam link in the comment box