What is baptism?
Physically, baptism is the act of being immersed in–and then emerging from–water. However, baptism is far more than a physical event; it has spiritual and symbolic significance.
What does baptism mean?
Spiritually, baptism illustrates Jesus’ burial and resurrection and signals an individual’s new life as a Christian. It symbolizes a person’s desire to “die” to the old life and to be “raised up” into a new life as a believer in Christ, with God’s Spirit in their life.
Why do we get baptized?
To follow and obey Jesus. Check out Mark 1:9: “…Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” Also read Matthew 28:19-20, “Jesus said, ‘go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit…”
To have our sins forgiven. Take a look at Acts 22:16: “…be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.”
To be saved. 1 Peter 3:21 says, “…this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also–not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
When should I get baptized?
There is no reason to delay! As soon as you have decided to trust Jesus with your life, you should be baptized. In the book of Acts, we are told “those who believed … were baptized … that day!” (8:35-38) If you are waiting until you are perfect or know enough or get things straightened out, you’ll never be ready. “And now what are you waiting for? get up, be baptized.” (Acts 22:16)
Becoming a Christian and being baptized do not guarantee that your life will be easy, that you’ll always get your way, or even that you’ll always have the right answers. Life will still be tough, but becoming a Christian does mean that you will have the Holy Spirit in your life making you into the person God wants you to be and connecting you with other Christians.
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