What Does the Bible Say About Baptism? Understanding its Meaning and Significance

What Does the Bible Say About Baptism?

Baptism is a significant event in the life of a Christian. It is a public declaration of faith and the entrance into the body of Christ. The Bible teaches about the importance of baptism, its meaning, and its significance. In this article, we will examine what the Bible says about baptism.

What is Baptism?

Baptism is a sacrament that symbolises the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a public declaration of faith, representing a commitment to follow Christ. Baptism is a physical act that is an outward expression of an inward change. It is a sign of belonging to Christ and the church.

The word “baptism” comes from the Greek word baptizo, which means to dip, plunge, or immerse. The act of baptism involves the immersion of the body in water, representing the washing away of sin and the new life in Christ. It is an act of obedience to Christ and a public proclamation of faith.

Who Should Be Baptized?

The Bible teaches that baptism is for believers. In other words, those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ should be baptized. The New Testament gives us examples of believers being baptized after they have repented and believed in Jesus Christ.

For example, in Acts 2:38, Peter says, “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.” This passage shows that baptism is for those who have repented and put their faith in Jesus Christ.

In Acts 8:12, we read about the Ethiopian eunuch who believed in Jesus and was baptized. Philip, the evangelist, baptized him after he had put his faith in Jesus Christ. This passage shows that baptism is for those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ.

The Bible does not teach that infants should be baptized. While some Christian traditions practice infant baptism, there is no biblical support for this practice. Baptism is for those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ and can make a public declaration of that faith.

What is the Meaning of Baptism?

The Bible teaches that baptism has several meanings. First, baptism symbolises the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When a believer is baptized, they are identifying with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They are proclaiming that they have died to their old life and have been raised to new life in Christ.

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.” This passage shows that baptism symbolises the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Second, baptism symbolises the washing away of sin. When a believer is baptized, they are proclaiming that their sins have been washed away by the blood of Jesus Christ. Baptism is a symbol of the forgiveness of sins and the new life that comes through faith in Jesus Christ.

Peter writes in 1 Peter 3:21, “and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” This passage shows that baptism symbolises the washing away of sin.

What is the Significance of Baptism?

The Bible teaches that baptism is significant because it is a public declaration of faith. When a believer is baptized, they are making a public proclamation of their faith in Jesus Christ. They are identifying with Christ and with the church.

Baptism is also significant because it is an act of obedience to Christ. Jesus commanded his disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. When a believer is baptized, they are obeying the command of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 28:19-20 says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This passage shows that baptism is an act of obedience to Christ.

Conclusion

Baptism is a significant event in the life of a Christian. It is a public declaration of faith and a symbol of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Baptism is for believers who have put their faith in Jesus Christ. It is a sign of belonging to Christ and the church. Baptism is also an act of obedience to Christ. It is an outward expression of an inward change and a public proclamation of faith.

As you consider baptism, remember that it is not a means of salvation. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Baptism is a symbol of salvation and a public declaration of faith. If you have put your faith in Jesus Christ, consider being baptized as a public proclamation of your faith.