My dear friend, if you’ve recently given your life to Jesus, you’ve taken the most important step—surrendering to Him as Lord and Savior. But now, God calls you to take the next step: baptism.
This isn’t just a religious tradition or a symbolic ritual. Baptism is a powerful, life-changing act of obedience that Jesus commanded for every believer. It’s your first public declaration that you belong to Him.
Baptism is an outward expression of an inward transformation. It’s a visible sign of the invisible work God has already done in your heart. The word "baptism" comes from the Greek word baptizo, which means "to immerse" or "to dip."
When you go under the water, you’re proclaiming:
"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."
"For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead."
"And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes."
1. Because Jesus Commanded It
Before ascending to heaven, Jesus gave His followers a clear instruction:
"Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:19)
Baptism isn’t optional—it’s an act of obedience to Jesus. If you love Him, you’ll follow His commands (John 14:15).
In the book of Acts, every new believer was baptized immediately after salvation.
Baptism wasn’t delayed—it was the natural next step for those who truly believed.
Baptism is a living illustration of what Jesus did for you:
"We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." (Romans 6:4)
When you’re baptized, you’re publicly identifying with Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.
Baptism marks the moment you step into your new identity in Christ. It’s not what saves you—only faith in Jesus does that (Ephesians 2:8-9). But it’s a powerful spiritual declaration that:
"We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin."
"What are you waiting for? Get up and be baptized. Have your sins washed away by calling on the name of the Lord."
"Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we all share the same Spirit."
1. Do I Have to Be Baptized to Be Saved?
No. Salvation comes by faith alone in Jesus (Ephesians 2:8-9). But baptism is the first act of obedience for every believer. If you refuse baptism, you’re rejecting Jesus’ command (Luke 6:46).
No! The Ethiopian eunuch didn’t wait—he was baptized immediately (Acts 8:36-38). Baptism isn’t about being perfect; it’s about publicly declaring your faith in Jesus.
Infant baptism is a dedication, not a biblical baptism. Biblical baptism is:
If you’ve never been baptized by your own choice after salvation, you should be.
If you've given your life to Jesus, don't delay baptism—it's your first act of obedience as His follower!
"What are you waiting for? Get up and be baptized. Have your sins washed away by calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22:16, NLT)
Here's what to do next:
1️⃣ Talk to your pastor about getting baptized
2️⃣ Invite friends & family to witness your declaration of faith
3️⃣ Prepare your heart—this sacred moment marks your new life in Christ!
4️⃣ Get connected with a church family—you weren't meant to walk alone (Hebrews 10:25)
5️⃣ Begin discipleship—grow through Bible study, prayer, and Christian community
Baptism isn't the finale—it's your launch into the greatest adventure! God calls you to:
Heaven is cheering you on! Will you take this step of faith today?
Next steps:
• Find a Bible-teaching church
• Join a small group or discipleship program
• Dive into God's Word daily
This is just the beginning of your eternal story with Christ!
Next in this series: Discipleship—Growing in Your Walk With Christ
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