What the Bible Says About Baptism
1. Jesus Taught That We Must Be Born of Water and the Spirit
When Jesus spoke to Nicodemus, He explained that entering the Kingdom of God involves spiritual rebirth.
Gospel of John 3:5
“Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.”
Many biblical teachers understand this as referring to water baptism and spiritual rebirth through the Holy Spirit, showing that salvation is both an inward transformation and an outward step of obedience.
2. Baptism Was Commanded by Jesus
Jesus instructed His followers to baptize those who believe in Him.
Gospel of Matthew 28:19
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Baptism is therefore not an optional tradition, it is part of the mission Jesus gave the Church.
3. Baptism Represents the Death of the Old Life and New Life in Christ
Epistle to the Romans 6:4
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead… we too may live a new life.”
The act of going under the water symbolizes burial of the old self, and rising from the water represents resurrection into new life.
4. The Early Church Called Believers to Repent and Be Baptized
Acts of the Apostles 2:38
“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.”
The pattern of the early church was clear and swift:
repent → believe → be baptized.
5. Baptism Is an Appeal to God From a Clean Conscience
First Epistle of Peter 3:21
“And this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God.”
Peter clarifies that the power of baptism is not the physical water but the faith and commitment to God that it represents.
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