Baptism is an important step of obedience that shows we have personally trusted Jesus for our salvation. Jesus was baptized when He was on the earth, and we do this to follow His example. When we are submerged under water it is to identify with the death and burial of Jesus. And we are raised out of the water to identify with His resurrection.

Frequently Asked Questions 

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF BAPTISM?

It illustrates Christ’s burial and resurrection.

"Christ died for our sins… He was buried… and He rose again." –I Corinthians 15:3-4

"For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism, you were also raised with Christ." --Colossians. 2:12

It illustrates my new life as a Christian.

"When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!" –2 Corinthians 5:17

"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 doesn’t make you a believer - it shows that you already believe. Baptism does not "save" you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ceremony - it’s the outward symbol of the commitment you make in your heart.

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith… it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." --Ephesians 2:8, 9

WHY BE BAPTIZED BY IMMERSION?

Because Jesus was baptized that way.

"As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water." –Matthew 3:16

Because Jesus commanded it.

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. - Matthew 28:18-20

The apostles commanded it by the instruction of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” - Acts 2:38-39

Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion.

(Example) "...then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water..." --Acts 8:38-39

The word Baptize means "To dip under water". The Greek word baptize means "to immerse or dip under water". It best symbolized a burial and resurrection!

 

Water Baptism