What is the Meaning of Baptism?

Baptism doesn’t make a person a Christian. Only faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring; it’s the outward sign of a commitment made in your heart. (see Ephesians 2:8–9)

It illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.

“… Christ died for our sins … he was buried … and he rose again.” (1 Corinthians 15:3–4) “For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ.” (Colossians 2:12)

It illustrates your new life as a Christian.

“When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

“By our baptism then, we were buried with him and shared his death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead … so that we may live a new life!” (Romans 6:4).

Who Should Be Baptized?

The Bible says that every person who believes in Christ should be baptized. A believer is someone who has realized that their sin has separated them from God. They have given up all personal efforts to reach God through good works or religious activity. They have concluded that Jesus Christ’s death on the cross for their sins is the only thing that can bridge the gap between themselves and God. A believer is someone who has decided to trust Christ alone for salvation. If you have come to that point in your spiritual journey, then you should be baptized. (see Acts 2:41; 8:12-13)

Why Should I Be Baptized?

First and foremost, Christ commanded it.

“Jesus said, ‘Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and then teach them to obey everything that I have commanded you.’” (Matthew 28:19-20)

In addition, it is to follow the example set by Jesus.

“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” (Mark 1:9).

It demonstrates that you are a believer, a follower of Christ.

“We know that we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands,” (1 John 2:3)

When Should I Be Baptized?

As soon as you can after you become a believer.

“Those who believed were baptized that day.” (Acts 2:41)

“Then Philip began with the Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, ‘Look, here is water. Why shouldn’t I be baptized right now?’ Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may.’ The man answered, ‘I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.’ So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him.” (Acts 8:35-38)

Yet it doesn’t have to occur the moment you believe. The Bible teaches that there is no reason to delay your baptism. After becoming a believer, you should participate in the next available opportunity the church provides for baptism. If you wait until you feel you are a “good enough” believer, you will never feel ready for baptism.

Why is Immersion Baptism Important?

It is the method used in Jesus’ baptism.

“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water.” (Matthew 3:16)

Every baptism mentioned in the Bible is by immersion.

“Then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water …” (Acts 8:38–39).

The word “baptize” means “to dip or submerge.”

Immersion best symbolizes Christ’s burial and resurrection. (see Romans 6:1-11)

What If I Was Baptized as an Infant?

In the Bible, we see parents bringing their children to Jesus. He held them and prayed for them and told us to welcome them. But he did not baptize them, and he did not tell anyone else to baptize them.

So if baptism signifies salvation (as the Bible teaches), only people who have intentionally received salvation should experience baptism. Thus, the Bible would indicate that baptism is for people who have made a decision to follow Christ.

If you have not experienced a believer’s baptism, even though you have experienced baptism as an infant, the full meaning and significance of baptism has yet to take place in your life. We strongly encourage you to be baptized as an adult believer in Christ.

Some churches practice a “baptism of confirmation” for children. This is a time when parents pledge their commitment to raise their child according to Christian values and beliefs. While a very meaningful event, this is not Christian baptism; it is not mentioned in the Bible.

Adult baptism doesn’t belittle your childhood baptism; it is a fulfillment of your parents’ hopes when they had you baptized.

Can Older Children Be Baptized?