Water Baptism

New believers often require additional support and guidance at the beginning of their spiritual journey. Sharing our experiences of new life in Christ, the steps we took to grow in our faith, and the blessings we enjoy can serve as a powerful example for them. This sharing can inspire and encourage them in their faith. One of the first crucial steps in this journey is water baptism. Therefore, taking them to church or a fellowship group will help them grow spiritually.

According to John 3:23 and Matthew 3:16, new believers entered a section of the river where the water was deep enough for complete immersion, symbolizing Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. The Apostle Paul elaborates that water baptism represents burying the old life and emerging into a new one. As a result, those who believe in Christ undergo water baptism to express their faith publicly.

“Or don’t you know that all we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.” Romans 6: 2-4 (WEB)

Before ascending to Heaven, Jesus instructed His disciples to baptize believers in water, emphasizing its significance in the Christian faith:

‘Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. ¹⁹ Go^[a] and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.’ Matthew 28:18-20

Baptism can still be performed for those living in cities or towns without nearby churches. New believers can be baptized in a river, a home shower tub, a pool, or any location with deep enough water and large enough space for friends to participate. 

To illustrate the process of baptism, let’s consider a scenario involving John, a mature Christian living in a town without a church, and Todd, a new believer eager to be baptized in water. John enters the water first, followed by Todd, who positions himself by crossing his arms over his chest in an X shape and pinching his nose to prevent inhaling water. If the water is shallow, Todd sits down to ensure it covers most of his body.

Before the baptism, John asks Todd a few important questions: “Do you believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins and that He is your Lord and Savior?” When Todd responds affirmatively, John offers a prayer of blessing, saying, “Todd, according to your confession of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, I now baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.”

To complete the baptism, John places one hand on Todd's shoulder and the other on his chest, gently dunking him backward into the water until fully submerged. Afterward, he helps Todd rise and stand up. The onlookers, consisting of fellow believers, respond with applause and praises to the Lord, celebrating this significant moment.

Baptism is a personal decision, and it is important for individuals, especially children, to reach an age where they can independently choose to take this step. Many invite friends and family to witness their baptism, which serves as a public confession of faith and the beginning of a new life in Christ.

Please click on “Dedication of Infants” to continue.