Lesson on Baptism

Why Be Baptised?

Baptism is an act of obedience, a public declaration, and a symbol of one’s relationship with Christ. Why we must be baptised?

1. Because You Want to Follow Christ’s Example

• Jesus’ Example of Baptism: Jesus Himself was baptised to set an example for us. In Mark 1:9, it says, “At that time, Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptised by John in the river.” If Jesus, who was sinless, chose to be baptised, it demonstrates how important baptism is as a step of obedience and devotion.
• Following Jesus’ Example: Baptism is a way to follow in the footsteps of Christ, showing your commitment to Him and His example.

2. Because Christ Commands It

• The Great Commission: Jesus explicitly commanded His followers to baptize believers. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus said, “Go then, to all the people everywhere and make them disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
• Obedience to Jesus’ Command: If it was important enough for Jesus to command baptism, it should be important enough for us to obey. Baptism is an act of obedience to Jesus’ instruction and marks the beginning of a disciple’s journey.

3. Because It Demonstrates You Are a Believer

• Public Profession of Faith: Baptism demonstrates that you are a believer in Christ. Acts 18:8 states, “Many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized.” Baptism publicly affirms that you are a follower of Christ and have placed your faith in Him for salvation.

4. Because Obeying Christ’s Command Shows You Know Him

• Obedience is Evidence of Relationship: In 1 John 2:3, it says, “We know that we have come to know Him if we obey His commands.” Obeying Christ’s command to be baptized shows that you know Him and are committed to following His teachings. It is a tangible way of demonstrating your relationship with God.

5. Because It Is the Appeal We Make to God for a Clean Conscience

• Baptism and a Good Conscience: 1 Peter 3:21 says, “This water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” Baptism represents an appeal to God for forgiveness and the cleansing of sin, symbolizing a fresh start with a clear conscience before God.

6. Because It Unites You with Christ in a Special Way

• Union with Christ: Baptism is a powerful way of symbolizing your union with Christ. Galatians 3:26-27 says, “You are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” Through baptism, you publicly identify with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, and it signifies that you have been spiritually united with Him.

7. Because You Desire to Be Forgiven

• Repentance and Forgiveness: In Acts 2:36-38, Peter tells the people, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Baptism is closely tied to repentance and receiving forgiveness. It is an outward sign of the inward transformation that comes with faith in Christ and repentance from sin.

Baptism is not only an act of obedience to Christ’s command but also a public expression of your faith, a symbol of your union with Christ, and a testimony of your desire to follow Him. Baptism signifies a new life, the forgiveness of sins, and a pledge of commitment to live out your faith as a follower of Jesus. It is an important and meaningful way to celebrate the work God has done in your life.

HOW SHOULD I BE BAPTISED?

Baptism should be performed like Jesus was baptized – by being immersed in water. Matthew 3:16 tells us, “As soon as Jesus was baptized, He came up out of the water.” The Greek word translated as “baptize/baptism” is baptizo (βαπτίζω), which literally means to “immerse, dip under, or submerge.” Every baptism in the New Testament was performed by immersion. For example, when Jesus was baptized, the Bible uses the Greek word baptizo to describe the event. Likewise, when Jesus commanded that His disciples baptize others, He used the same Greek word baptizo, instructing them how to do it.

Every baptism recorded in the New Testament was by immersion. In Acts 8:38-39, it says, “Then both Philip and the man went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water…” This illustrates that both the person being baptized and the one performing the baptism went into the water and came out, showing that immersion was the practice. The apostles, consistent with Jesus’ example and command, instructed new believers to be immersed into Christ, also using the Greek word baptizo to describe the action. Acts 2:38 says, “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.’”

Immersion is the best way to picture a burial and resurrection. Romans 6:3-4 says, “Or don’t you 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… we too may have new life.” The symbolism of immersion is compelling: just as a person lowers you into the water, Christ lowers you into the pool of His grace until every inch of you is clean. Buried in a watery grave, covered from head to foot with God’s love, you are washed clean by the blood of Jesus.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR WHEN I AM BAPTIZED?

You can wear a bathing suit (or something similar) and a shirt. For women we suggest wearing a bathing suit under your shorts and shirt.

WILL I HAVE TO SAY ANYTHING?

Yes. You will be asked to repeat the words of the Good Confession as a public profession of your personal faith in Jesus Christ: “I believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, my Lord and my Saviour.” Prior to the start of the worship service you will meet in the Baptism Prep Room (behind the stage) where you will receive further instruction. To help commemorate the occasion a baptismal certificate will be given to you.

WHAT IF I HAVE SPECIAL NEEDS?

All of our pastors can perform a baptism before a smaller, more intimate group (a few friends, family members, etc.) in special circumstances. We will be glad to work with you whatever the reason.

Kay Alli