Baptism

What is the meaning of baptism?

Baptism is an example set by Christ.

Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. — Mark 1:9

It is also a command that Jesus left us: “Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.” — Matthew 28:19-20

Baptism is a symbol of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior.

Those who believed immediately signed up to be baptized. — Acts 2:41

Baptism is similar to the imagery of a wedding ring—it’s the outward symbol of your faith in Christ and the commitment made to Him in your heart. Baptism does not make you a believer; it’s a symbol of what you already believe. It’s important to understand that baptism does not save you. You’re saved only through your faith in Jesus. Saving is all His idea and work, and all we do is trust Him to do it. Salvation is God’s gift from start to finish! — Ephesians 2:8-9

Baptism illustrates new life as a Christian.

Baptism illustrates Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. Going under the water is a burial of your old life, and coming out of it represents a resurrection (God raising you from the dead as He did Christ). — Colossians 2:12, Romans 6:4

Why be baptized by immersion?

Jesus was baptized this way. 

The moment Jesus came up out of the baptismal waters, the skies opened up and he saw God’s Spirit—it looked like a dove—descending and landing on him.
— Matthew 3:16

The word baptize actually means to “submerge or dip underwater.”

Who should get baptized?

It’s for every person who believes in Christ.

When Philip came to town announcing the news of God’s kingdom and proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ, men and women were baptized, becoming believers right and left!
— Acts 8:12