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Baptism

Water baptism has always been an integral part of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. The Greek word baptizō – from which we get baptism and baptize – means ‘to dip’ or ‘immerse’. In the ancient world, the word was normally used to describe the complete immersion of cloth in a dye. 

Baptism is a physical act that expresses a spiritual truth in a practical way. It demonstrates our identification with Jesus. It is the New Testament’s way of saying that we consider ourselves to be included in His death, burial, and resurrection. 

Romans 6:3-7&11 NLT all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death. Therefore we were buried with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in the likeness of his death, we will certainly also be in the likeness of his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be rendered powerless so that we may no longer be enslaved to sin, since a person who has died is freed from sin … So, you too consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Baptism is more than just a step of obedience. It is a recognition of the truth that we are washed clean – cleansed from sin – by the blood of Jesus. It is the outward confession of what has happened within. By it, we declare:

- to God that we believe in the saving power of the finished work of Christ

- to the Church that we have become members of His Body

- to the world that we are dead to its appeal

- to the devil that we are no longer under his authority, having been transferred out of darkness into the Kingdom of God’s Son. 

When Jesus was baptized (Matthew 3:16-17), He stepped up into the place of spiritual authority from which every human being was intended to live. Empowered by the Father and anointed by the Spirit to live and work as His authorized representative, Jesus lived a victorious life, overcoming any opposition the enemy could hope to bring against Him. After He had risen from the dead, Jesus confirmed His position as Lord of all. And as His disciples – His followers – baptism positions us to live under His authority.

Matthew 28:18-20 NLT Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”