Baptism

Jesus Himself was baptized by John, not because He needed repentance but to fulfill all righteousness.

This act established baptism as an essential practice for His followers.

In the Great Commission, Jesus commanded His disciples to baptize believers in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 

When a person is baptized, they publicly identify with Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection. 

The act of immersion represents the dying of the old self and being reborn into a new life committed to God. This illustrates the transformative power of faith in Christ.

Baptism serves as an outward expression of an inward change. It signifies that an individual has accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior and desires to live according to His teachings. 

It also symbolizes spiritual cleansing from sin and the beginning of a new journey in faith.

Marking a believer's identification with Jesus and serving as a public declaration of faith. It embodies our obedience to Christ's command, while symbolizing spiritual renewal and transformation through His grace.

Onward and upward, in Christ Jesus

Baptism is an important practice within Christianity, symbolizing a believer's public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. This act is deeply rooted in biblical teachings and carries profound spiritual implications.

Baptism originates from the ministry of John the Baptist, who called all people to repentance. Baptizing them in the Jordan River, as a sign of their commitment to change their lives.

Matthew 3:6

“Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.”

Matthew 3:15

“Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented.”

Matthew 28:19-20

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

This directive emphasizes that baptism is not merely a ritual but a vital part of making disciples and teaching them to obey.

Romans 6:4

“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

Acts 2:41

"Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.”

A believer must understand that belief precedes baptism, and baptism itself does not save, salvation comes through faith alone, in Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 2:8-9

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.”

It is an important step of obedience, following the acceptance of Christ. It reflects a believer's commitment to follow Jesus publicly and encourages others to do the same.

Colossians 2:1-4

“I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. 

My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, 

in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine sounding arguments.”