Baptism
Matthew 28:19–20, Romans 6:3–5, Mark 1:9–11, Acts 8:9–13
What is it? Baptism doesn’t save you but it is the first step of obedience for every follower of Jesus. It symbolizes our lives being crucified with Christ and raised again to new life to live for Him. It is a public celebration of an inward change that has happened in your life! (Read Romans 6:3-5)
Why should I get baptized: We should get baptized because Jesus himself set the example by being baptized. In the book of Mark, we see Jesus coming to John the Baptist to be baptized in the Jordan River, demonstrating the importance of this act as a symbol of obedience and commitment to God. Following Jesus's example in baptism not only honors Him but also signifies our desire to follow His teachings and live a life in alignment with God's plan. (Read Mark 1:9-11)
When should I get baptized: In the book of Acts, we see numerous accounts of people immediately getting baptized upon coming to faith. This underscores the idea that baptism is not merely a symbolic ritual but an immediate act of obedience and commitment to Christ. These accounts serve as a powerful reminder that baptism is an integral part of the journey of faith, signifying a public declaration of one's allegiance to Jesus Christ. (Read Acts 8:9-13)
Who should baptize me? We see in the Bible that any follower of Jesus can baptize. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus instructs his disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit," indicating that baptism is a responsibility given to all believers. (Read Matthew 28:18-20)
