When we get baptized, we tell the world about our relationship with Christ.
Jesus did it, and it’s an important way we can follow His footsteps.
WHY BAPTISM?
The act of baptism is a picture of what Jesus has done for you. Jesus died for your sins, was buried, and then was raised from the dead. That's why you go all the way under the water when you are baptized - to show that your past life is buried, and as you come out of the water you are stepping into your new life with Jesus.
Baptism isn't merely a ritual. We need to look at the baptism of Jesus to understand its reason. Jesus didn't need to repent from his sins. He didn't need to get baptized. Why did He do it anyway, and why did He command us to do it ?
The Bible says when Jesus was baptized the heavens were parted, the Spirit came on him like a dove, and a voice spoke from heaven: "You are my Son in whom I am well pleased. What an incredible picture! As Jesus came out of the water, God confirmed His identity as His son, expressed His love for Him, and equipped Him with the fullness of His Spirit to start His ministry.
Baptism is a breakthrough moment in our lives where our perception changes as we make ourselves available for God's unlimited power to work in us through the Holy Spirit. It's a big step in your obedience to God, and it becomes a point in your life you can always look back and be reminded of. Just as God has marked His approval on Jesus, so can you be reminded that God has approved of you. In moments of doubt or when life gets difficult you can be encouraged that God has spoken the same thing over you which he spoke over His Son.
You are my son or daughter, in whom I am well pleased.
Obeying Jesus' Commandment
*Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of he Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely lam with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20 NIV
Being water baptized is one of the first steps you take in following Jesus. A friend of Jesus does not just learn about Jesus, but follows Jesus and does the things He did. The number one reason you should get water baptized is because Jesus did and He commands us to be baptized also. When you became a follower of Jesus, you were brought into God's Kingdom that is under Jesus' control. That means you have decided to do what Jesus says and follow His example. Jesus was water baptized, and as evidence to our obedience to Him, we should be as well.
A Decision of Faith!
"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." Romans 6:4 NIV Water baptism is a very important step in your new Christian life, however, it does not save you. It has no purpose or meaning until after a person has decided to follow Jesus and committed their life to Him.
When you decided to follow Jesus, you made a decision of faith to obey His will. When you are water baptized, you are making a decision of faith to follow Him all the days of your life. You are choosing to let Jesus and your new, born-again spirit be in charge of your life. Your water baptism will always be a reminder of your decision to follow the Lord.
ARE YOU READY TO BE BAPTIZED?
The Bible calls us to baptism in a clear sequence.
Jesus tells us to repent and be baptized (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:16). Do you believe that Jesus is the only Son of God? Do you believe that Jesus died and rose again on the 3rd day? Have you opened the door to your heart and received Jesus into your heart and life? Are you committed to living in relationship with and submission to the Ways of Jesus?
If you understand these questions, can answer 'yes' with confidence, and are ready to make it public, you are ready to be baptized! If you are unsure of the meaning or answer to these questions, it's appropriate to wait and talk with a Pastor about them.