I wrote this article for you about water baptism because it might be a new concept to you. We also wrote this article so you can think about what importance water baptism may have in the future for you. I also added a personal story at the end.
What is baptism by water?
Water baptism is placing a person under water (only briefly!!) then raising them up again. For example, John the Baptist placed people “into” the Jordan river as he baptized them (Mark 1:9 Greek text).
What is the significance of water baptism?
The significance of John’s baptism
Water baptism can be a picture of several ideas. John the Baptist’s baptism was intended to show repentance. “Repentance” means a person changing his mind about his sin and desiring to change. Putting the people under water then raising them up again pictured their complete washing from their sin because of their repentance. John’s baptism symbolized washing away sin because of repentance. The meaning of Christian baptism is larger.
The significance of Christian baptism
Christian baptism is a picture of sharing in the death and resurrection of Jesus (Romans 6:4). Water baptism also pictures washing our sins away. However, our faith washes away sins, not water!
Believers in Jesus are baptized “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). These words are usually recited during the baptism. “In the name of” was a common way in the first century of describing the transfer of ownership to another person. When a person is baptized, he gives Jesus control of his life.
Is baptism needed to be forgiven?
Some religions see baptism as part of salvation or justification (being declared righteous). However, since over 200 verses say salvation is by faith, this cannot be correct. Not only this, but the same things that seem to be promised to people who are baptized are also promised to the person who only has faith.
Is baptism necessary?
Baptism is commanded for followers of Jesus (Matthew 28:19,20) so it is often a first step of obedience to Christ.
Baptism is not required to have God’s forgiveness through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, those of us who truly believe in Him want to obey Jesus. Jesus commanded baptism, so we should be baptized as soon as it is safe and practical to do so.
A personal story
When I trusted Jesus as my Savior, I was a young person living at home. My parents opposed my baptism. My pastor thought that we should give them an opportunity to change their minds. After several months, my earthly father finally gave his permission and I was baptized. That day was a day of great joy for me. I played guitar and sang spontaneous worship songs the rest of the day.
My prayer is that you will trust Jesus, be baptized in His time, and that it will be a joyful time for you as well.