In Christianity we refer to two types of baptism, both of which apply to every Christian; Water Baptism and Baptism in the Holy Spirit. In this blog, we are going to look at how Water Baptism works within a Christian’s life.
The word “baptism” comes from the ancient Greek word “baptizó” which means, “to dip repeatedly or submerge”. This word was often used to refer to the action of dyeing fabric. Therefore, when we speak of Water Baptism we are referring to someone being submerged into water momentarily, and like the fabric which has been dyed, the person is different after being submerged.
Early in the New Testament, we are introduced to an interesting character called John-the-Baptist. John was named this due to his preoccupation with baptising people in the Jordan River. The reason for this baptism was for people to show they had repented of their sinful lifestyle. In other words, they’ve changed from living a life of wilful-sin and turned over a new leaf to live a life according to God’s ways. The baptism was a public declaration of their intention.
Here is an account of Jesus being baptised:
“Then Jesus went from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptised by John the Baptist. But John tried to talk him out of it. “I am the one who needs to be baptized by you,” he said, “so why are you coming to me?”But Jesus said, “It should be done, for we must carry out all that God requires.” So John agreed to baptise him.” (Matthew 3:13-15)
Jesus, Himself, saw Water Baptism as a sign that someone has decided to live God’s way.
To live life God’s way is a choice each Christian must make for themselves, and Water Baptism is a public declaration that they have made that decision. That is why we don’t baptise or christen babies or small children, because it needs to be their decision.
Look at what Paul wrote about baptism:
“Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives. Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was.” (Romans 6:1-5)
What Paul is saying is, as we are baptised in water, we identify with Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection. We enter the water signifying the death of our old sinful nature, we go under the water signifying the burial of a sinful life, and we come up out of the water signifying the resurrection of a new creation, born again with sin having no power over us.
Please note, Water Baptism is not a requirement for being saved or accepted by God. It is a declaration that you have been accepted by God and He has saved you. It is a wonderful experience for a Christian and for their fellow believers as they support you in your declaration.
So, why don’t you consider making a public declaration of your decision to follow Jesus by being baptised at our next baptism service?
In your spare time grab your Bible and read Acts 8:26-39.