Water baptism is one of the most profound acts of obedience and faith in the life of a believer. It is much more than a symbolic ritual; it is an outward declaration of an inward transformation. Through baptism, we are identifying with Jesus Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. As Paul writes in Romans 6:4:
“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.”
Baptism: A Greek Perspective
The word baptism comes from the Greek word “baptizó” (βαπτίζω), which means “to immerse, submerge, or dip.” This word carries the idea of being fully enveloped or overwhelmed, often used to describe the process of dyeing a garment where the fabric is immersed and transformed by the dye. Similarly, baptism involves being fully immersed in water, symbolizing the believer’s total identification with Jesus Christ and their transformation into a new creation.
Baptism: Dying and Rising with Christ
Romans 6:3-5 explains the deep spiritual significance of baptism:
“Or do you not know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 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.”
When a believer is baptized:
- The Old Man Dies: The immersion into water represents the death and burial of the old sinful nature. Just as Christ was buried, our old self—dominated by sin—is symbolically put to death and buried.
- The New Man Rises: Coming up out of the water symbolizes resurrection into new life in Christ. It signifies the beginning of a transformed life where the believer belongs to Jesus, walking in obedience and holiness.
Baptism is not optional for a follower of Christ; it is a necessary step in discipleship. Jesus Himself commands it in Matthew 28:19-20:
“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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
Baptism in the Book of Acts
The Book of Acts provides several examples of believers being baptized as an essential step in their faith journey:
- The Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:37-41): After Peter preached the gospel, the people were convicted and asked, “What shall we do?” Peter replied:
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
About 3,000 people were baptized that day, marking the beginning of their new life in Christ. - The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-39): Philip explained the gospel to the Ethiopian eunuch, and as they traveled, the eunuch saw water and said:
“Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?”
They stopped the chariot, and Philip baptized him immediately, showing the urgency and importance of baptism. - Cornelius and His Household (Acts 10:44-48): After Peter preached the gospel to Cornelius and his family, the Holy Spirit fell on them. Peter then commanded:
“Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water.”
They were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, demonstrating that baptism is for all who believe. - Paul’s Baptism (Acts 9:17-18): After encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus, Paul was baptized to signify his new life in Christ and his commitment to the gospel mission.
Baptism as a Covenant with Christ
Through baptism, believers declare their allegiance to Jesus Christ and their separation from the world. It is not merely a symbolic act but a spiritual covenant, signifying that we now belong to Christ. As Paul writes in Galatians 3:27:
“For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.”
Conclusion
Water baptism is an essential step in the journey of every disciple of Jesus Christ. It signifies the death of the old self, the burial of sin, and the resurrection of a new life in Christ. It is a public declaration that we belong to Jesus and are committed to following Him. Whether we look at Jesus’ command in Matthew, Paul’s teaching in Romans, or the examples in Acts, the message is clear: baptism is not optional—it is a vital expression of faith and obedience.
If you have not been baptized, take this step today to proclaim your faith in Jesus Christ and walk in the newness of life He offers. “Repent and be baptized” (Acts 2:38), and experience the transformative power of belonging to Christ.
