Water Baptism

INTRODUCTION

The word “baptise” comes from the Greek word “baptizo,” which means “to immerse or dip under water.” Water baptism is a public declaration of our promise not to walk in sin anymore. It also connects us to the body of Christ. Jesus Himself was baptised by immersion (Matthew 3:16).

OUTLINE

1. The Description
2. Things To Note

THE DESCRIPTION

Water baptism is a Christian rite representing a public profession of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. It symbolises identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, signifying commitment to God.

Being submerged in the water represents dying to one's old life, and rising from the water symbolises the new life in Christ. The act is a command from Jesus and an act of obedience for believers (Matthew 28:19–20).

Water baptism is a practical demonstration of our spiritual reality and a personal testimony that we have passed from the old life of sin to the new life of righteousness in Christ through faith (Colossians 2:11–12).

The main requirements for water baptism are a personal faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour and repentance from sin. You must also have heard the Gospel message and be able to make a public confession of faith that you have accepted Christ as your Lord and Saviour.

The correct way to get baptised is that prayer is offered, and the person is lowered under the water before rising to signify a new beginning in the name of “The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit,” which is what Jesus commanded us.

As soon as a person believes in Christ, he can be, and is encouraged to be baptised (Acts 8:35–39; 10:45–48).

THINGS TO NOTE

1. It is not the baptism that saves, but baptism is a response to the declaration of an inward saving faith.
2. Those who have given their lives to Christ are encouraged to proclaim their faith publicly through water baptism. However, not all believers may be opportune to do so due to some uncontrollable factors like the ‘thief on the cross’ (Luke 23:39–43).
3. Water baptism should be done in the name of “The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).
4. Any believer in Christ who has been baptised by immersion should be welcomed and accepted by the Church of God, irrespective of denomination.
5. No one is ineligible for baptism due to past sins; in fact, baptism is a sign that you believe and have been cleansed from sin through faith in Christ.

CONCLUSION

Water baptism is a public declaration of faith in the saving grace of Jesus.

QUESTIONS

Briefly describe Water Baptism.

Mention five things to note about Water Baptism.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: Mark 16:16

MON: Matthew 28:19

TUE: Romans 6:3–4

WED: Acts 2:38

THUR: 1 Peter 3:21

FRI: Acts 2:41

SAT: Colossians 2:12

ASSIGNMENT

If you have not been baptised by immersion, plan to join the next batch (No mark).