What does the Bible say about Baptism and Why is it Important?
Baptism & Communion
Baptism and communion are the two ordinances required in the church. We believe that Christian baptism by immersion in water is a public identification with Jesus Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection.
In Mark 16:15-16 we read the words of Jesus to His disciples, Then Jesus said to them, "So wherever you go in the world, tell everyone the Good News. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned."
In Matthew 28:18-20 (the Great Commission) Jesus said to His disciples "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. So wherever you go, make disciples of all nations: Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to do everything I have commanded you. And remember that I am always with you until the end of time."
In Acts 2:37- 40 we read, "When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, 'Brothers, what shall we do? Peter replied "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 promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, for all whom the Lord our God will call."
In the gospel of Matthew chapter 3 verse 11 & 12 John the Baptist makes the following statement about baptism..."I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. "
Baptism in the name of Jesus is a life changing, radical new beginning as every aspect of your old life is consumed by the fire of God and He places within you the power and presence of the Holy Ghost. You will never be the same...the bible declares in 2Corinthians 5;17 that you are a new creation in Christ Jesus!
Who Should be Baptized?
Baptism is not to be taken lightly. Baptism is only for those who have a full understanding and have:
A) Heard the Gospel Message (Mark 16:15-16, Romans 10:13-15);
B) In Faith, Believed the Gospel Message (Romans 10:9-10);
C) Confessed that Jesus is Lord (Romans 10:9-10, 1John 4:15) and;
D) Repented of their Sin (Acts 2:38, Mark 1:15, Luke 13:5, Acts 3:19).
Then and only then is one ready to submit in Faith & Obedience in Christian Baptism.
How Should I be Baptized?
The word for baptize in the Greek language simply means: to make fully wet. We believe the New Testament teaches baptism through immersion in water. For example:
A) Jesus in the Jordan River in Mark 1:6-11;
B) The Ethiopian Eunuch by Philip in Acts 8:37-38.
Is Church Membership Required for Baptism?
No. Church membership is not mentioned in the Bible. However, in Acts 2:47 we read "And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved". In this verse the word "church" is a reference to the gathering of believers in Jesus, not a particular denomination. So you become apart of God's people "His Church" not a member of a denomination or organization.
