What is baptism?

Baptism is a one-time act that gives a person the opportunity to publicly confess to their community (of family, friends, and the church body) that they have received Christ as the forgiver of their sins, and that Jesus is now leader and Lord of their life.

Simply put, baptism is an outward representation of an inward decision and transformation. Baptism is a picture and a symbol of Christ’s death and resurrection in a believers life. As we enter into the waters or watch another do so, we are reminded that Christ was crucified and raised from the dead and that we, too, have died to the old self in order to live for Christ (Romans 6:3-11).

People do not get baptized to have their sins forgiven. They get baptized because their sins have been forgiven through Christ’s death and resurrection. Baptism is a symbol. Just as Jesus died, so a believer identities with His death through being immersed in water. And just as Jesus rose, so in baptism a believer rises from the water, proclaiming and identifying with the new life they have because of Him. 

People get baptised as a symbol of their membership within the global church. They are a part of the universal body of believers who have put their faith in Jesus, and are following Him as their Lord and Saviour.

Jesus final words in Matthew 28:18-20 were: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit…” Therefore, everyone who has put their faith and trust in Jesus should be baptised. Baptism doesn’t save us, but it is an ordinance Jesus has given His church as a symbol and action to show the world what they believe and who is the Lord of their life. Baptism is not merely a responsibility but a privilege. We have the opportunity to evidence our trust and love for King Jesus through obedience in this ordinance. As soon as a person trusts in Christ, he or she should be baptised.