Suggested reading: Acts 2:37-47; Psalm 51; Psalm 103; Psalm 119:1-16; Acts 10:34-43

Before we begin, it is necessary that we appreciate that the Bible has it’s own unique terminology to express some exclusive concepts. One such example is how ‘baptism’ is introduced in the New Testament as the means by which the believer is to be connected with the sacrifice and life of the Lord Jesus Christ. It’s full meaning will become evident toward the end of this series, but we present the key points here to provide a foundation with some context which will help us appreciate the fullness of this ritual that is a cornerstone of belief for the saints in Christ.

THE NEED FOR BAPTISM:

• Baptism is commanded by John and Christ: Mark 1:4; Matthew 3:8,15; Mark 16:15-16
  
• It is essential for salvation: Mark 16:16, Acts 8:38
• It provides a covering for sin: Galatians 3:27
• Baptism brings us into covenant relationship with God. Ephesians 2:12
• It is symbolic of the death and burial of our ‘old’ self: Romans 6:3-5
• Baptism provides forgiveness of and a washing away of our sins: Colossians 2:12-14
• It is symbolic and represents our rebirth into a ‘new’ life: John 3:5-6

THE MEANING OF BAPTISM in the Bible means immersion. The Greek word, “baptiso” = to dip, plunge, or to make fully wet. It is well understood that when dying clothing there is a complete change of color in the garment. This should not be confused with ‘sprinkling’ which is another Greek word: ‘rhantizo’.

THE ACT OF BAPTISM HIGHLIGHTS ITS SIGNIFICANCE by relating it to a ‘burial’ into the water. In Romans 6 we are given a complete explanation of the significance of baptism. (Please take a minute to read the whole chapter.)

• We are to be ‘buried with him (Jesus) by baptism into his death’. Rom 6:4
• Likened also to being planted together in the likeness of his death! Rom. 6:5
• Rom. 6:6 our ‘old man’ with its sinful nature is crucified (dies) with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed.
• To be raised out of the water is a ‘resurrection: raised up! Rom 6:4. IE of a ‘coming forth’ or resurrection to a ‘new life’ in Christ. Therefore we are then in the likeness of his resurrection Rom 6:5.
• This act is a symbol of being raised from the dead Rom 6:4.
• The result is this ‘new man’ should walk in the newness of life.
• It provides us with an association with the ‘body of Christ’. Put on Christ: Gal. 3:27
• This ‘new man’ henceforth does not serve sin. Rom. 6:6

THERE ARE TWO KEY REQUIREMENTS FOR BAPTISM

1. Belief of the gospel/truth: Romans 1:16, Acts 8:12 The scriptural significance of Baptism does not allow for the baptism of those without the ability to believe. Baptism is not for children. It can only be effective when an ‘enlightened’ individual makes an informed decision to follow God and his son Jesus Christ. There are no examples in the Bible of children or any others without understanding being baptized. All are baptized after a confession of their faith. Acts 2:38; Matthew 3:2; 4:17
   
2. Repentance: (a ‘reversal of direction’) Our responsibility to God is based upon understanding His word! Once we have understanding, we must make a decision: should we continue on as we always have (the old man) or do we repent and change our heart to the ‘new man in Christ’? The first step of that change is Baptism. It is fulfilling all righteousness just as Jesus demonstrated, and it a public confession of faith evidenced in the act of obeying the truth of the gospel. Many people hear the truth, but few accept it. Baptism is a declaration that we choose to obey God. Matthew 3:7-8.