In the Bible baptism is a symbol of new life. In many ways it signals a rite of passage. It’s like an initiation rite. It’s a moment in time when a believer in Jesus chooses to publicly declare their allegiance to Jesus and their intention to serve him and follow Him for the rest of their lives.
Over the centuries there have been various ideas about baptism. Some Christians believe in infant or baby baptism. Others believe that baptism is only for those who are old enough to understand what it means and what the commitment entails.
Jesus was very clear about the nature and importance of baptism. Speaking to his followers before his return to heaven he urged them to go and share the Good News of Jesus with everyone. He commanded them to make disciples and to baptize them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Jesus said that Baptism is very, very important and that if we want to be saved and go to heaven we need to be baptised. We must know what the Bible teaches about baptism.
So, let’s take a quick look at 10 important Bible facts about baptism:
Fact number 1. Baptism is an essential part of salvation.
The Bible says: “He who believes and is baptised will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” Mark 16:16.
Fact number 2. Jesus set us an example by being baptised.
The Bible says: “Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptised by John in the Jordan.” Mark 1:9.
Fact number 3. In order to be baptised we must first repent of our sins.
The Bible says: Repent, and let every one of you be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.” Acts 2:38.
Fact number 4. In order to be baptised we need to believe in Jesus and surrender our lives to Him through faith.
The Bible says: “And the eunuch said, ‘See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptised?’ Then Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may.’” Acts 8:36,37.
Fact number 5. We must understand the basic truths of the Bible before we are baptised.
The Bible says: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; Matthew 28:19,20.
Fact number 6. Baptism symbolises turning away from our old bad ways and beginning a new life in Jesus. It’s like being born again and starting a new life.
The Bible says: “Do you not know that as many of us as were baptised into Christ Jesus were baptised into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:3,4.
Fact number 7. The Bible recognises one method of baptism
The Bible says: “One Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Ephesians 4:3.
Fact number 8. Jesus, who is our example, was baptised by immersion.
The Bible says: “It came to pass in those days that Jesus … was baptised by John in the Jordan. And immediately, coming up from the water …” Mark 1:9,10.
Fact number 9. John and the early church leaders baptised by immersion.
The Bible says: “Now John also was baptising in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there. And they came and were baptised.” John 3:23.
“And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptised him.” Acts 8:38.
And finally, fact number 10. Once we have accepted Jesus we should make a commitment to be baptised without delay.
The Bible says: “And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptised, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Acts 22:16.
So, there they are – 10 important facts about baptism
1. Baptism is an essential part of salvation.
2. Jesus set us an example by being baptised.
3. In order to be baptised we must first repent of our sins.
4. In order to be baptised we need to have surrendered our lives to Jesus through faith.
5. We must understand the basic truths of the Bible before we are baptised.
6. We must understand the basic truths of the Bible before we are baptised.
7. The Bible recognises one method of baptism
8. Jesus was baptised by immersion.
9. John and the early church leaders baptised by immersion.
10. Once we have accepted Jesus we should make a commitment to be baptised without delay.
Baptism symbolises the death, or end, of our old sinful ways. It’s like being born again and starting a brand-new life with Jesus. It signifies that not only have we been buried with Jesus but we have been resurrected with him as well, committed to following Him and walking with him in a new way of life.
The Bible also tells us that baptism is a weighty decision, not to be entered into lightly and that the believer must be fully immersed in water in order to be truly baptised. Have you chosen to give your life to Jesus? Would you like to commit your life to Him through baptism?
