What is baptism and why is it important?

Following Jesus is not a one-time decision, but a lifelong journey. No matter how long you’ve been a Christian, we all have a next step in our walk with Jesus.

If you asked Jesus into your life, but have yet to be baptized, baptism is your next step! 

4 Things You Need To Know About Baptism 

1. Baptism is about going public.

Like wearing a jersey to a football game, baptism is our opportunity to identify with a person and a team.  When we take our next step in baptism, we’re letting the world know we belong to Jesus and we’re on His team.  

There is no such thing as a private faith. Jesus died publicly for us, and baptism is our opportunity to go public for Him.

2. Baptism is about being obedient.

Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19).  The first thing Jesus tells us to do after salvation is baptism. 

We can’t say we’ll do anything for God if we won’t do the first thing. If you have not been baptized since asking Jesus into your life, baptism is your next step.

There is no such thing as a private faith.

3. Baptism comes after salvation.

In the first recorded sermon in the early church, Peter preached to a crowd of thousands. About 3,000 people were saved, and the first thing Peter told them to do after salvation was get baptized (Acts 2:38). The pattern continues through the rest of the early church. Baptism is a public proclamation of the spiritual transformation that occurs when we commit to following Jesus. 

4. Baptism is a powerful reminder.

Through baptism, we remember how Jesus saved us. Being lowered in the water is symbolic of how we were dead in our sins. Coming out of the water is symbolic of how our faith in Jesus saved us from death and gives us eternal life. 

Every baptism is an opportunity to share Jesus’ story. Jesus died to pay for our sin and restore our relationship with God. Then, He rose from the grave, showing His power over death. 

That’s something to celebrate!