What Is Baptism?
“And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.”
(Acts 22:16)
Baptism is a significant and meaningful practice for a believer. It represents their commitment to be a disciple of Christ and their initiation into the Christian community. Baptism is a powerful symbol that represents several important aspects of a believer’s relationship with God and their faith in Jesus Christ.
- Identifying with Christ: Baptism allows believers to visually show their connection to Jesus Christ. Just as Jesus died, was buried, and rose again, baptism symbolizes our union with Him. It is like saying, “I identify with Jesus, and His sacrifice has transformed my life.”
- Cleansing from Sin: Baptism represents the forgiveness and cleansing of sins. By being baptized, we show that we trust in Jesus’ sacrifice and have turned away from our old sinful ways. It is a way of saying, “I believe that Jesus’ death on the cross has washed away my sins, and I am starting a new life with Him.”
- New Birth and Becoming part of God’s Family: Baptism also signifies a spiritual rebirth and our acceptance into God’s family. We often talk about being “born again” through faith in Jesus Christ. Baptism is like a public announcement that we have experienced this new life and have chosen to follow Jesus.
“Jesus answered him, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.'”
(John 3:3)
How To Be Baptized
Some churches perform baptism differently, here are the two most common ways to be baptized:
- Immersion: Immersion baptism involves being fully submerged in water. This method represents the idea of being buried with Christ and rising with Him. It is like going under the water to symbolize leaving behind our old life, and then coming up out of the water to represent the new life we have in Christ.
- Sprinkling/Pouring: Some evangelical denominations also practice sprinkling or pouring water over the person being baptized. Although the amount of water used may differ, the symbolic meaning remains the same. It represents the cleansing and spiritual transformation that takes place through faith in Jesus.
Who Can Be Baptized?
Individuals are baptized only after they have repented of their sins, accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior, and publicly expressed their faith. It is a way for people to show that they have chosen to follow Jesus and that they are committed to living out their faith.
Are you ready to accept Jesus into your life and live for Him and be baptized? Find a church HERE!