Baptism
Following Jesus in obedience after salvation
“Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.” — Acts 2:41 (KJV)
What is baptism?
Baptism is an outward picture of an inward change. It does not save us — only Jesus does that — but it shows publicly what He has already done in our heart. Going under the water is a picture of His death and burial; coming up again is a picture of His resurrection and the new life we have in Him.
1. Baptism is for believers
In the Bible, baptism always comes after a person has believed on the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a step of obedience, not a step of earning salvation.
2. Baptism is a picture of the gospel
- Going down into the water pictures His death and burial.
- Coming up out of the water pictures His resurrection.
- It pictures our old life being left behind and our new life in Christ.
“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead... even so we also should walk in newness of life.” — Romans 6:4 (KJV)
3. Common questions
Do I have to be baptized to be saved?
No. We are saved by grace through faith in Christ alone. Baptism is obedience after salvation.
When should I be baptized?
After you have trusted Christ as your Savior and are ready to publicly identify with Him.
LuvsMyLamb — Helping believers take the next step with Jesus.