The Significance of Scriptural Baptism
Why should believers choose to be baptized? Allow me to share three compelling reasons that go beyond mere persuasion and invite you to consider the true blessings that baptism brings. Baptism is a command from Christ and a gracious gift that He bestows upon us for our benefit.
Let’s explore these three reasons why Christians should be baptized:
- (1) to obey Christ’s command,
- (2) to publicly profess faith in Christ, and
- (3) to formally commit oneself to Christ and His people.
- Obeying Christ’s Command
Why should you consider baptism? To obey the command of Christ. Which command is that? It is the one found in Matthew 28:19. Let’s examine this verse in context:
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.'” (Matthew 28:18–20)
After His death and resurrection, Jesus spoke to His disciples, entrusting them with the task of proclaiming the salvation He had accomplished. He emphasized that He possessed “all authority in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18) as the supreme ruler of the universe.
Jesus commanded His disciples and by extension all believers, to make disciples. He called them to invite others to follow Him. He gave them three supporting instructions on how to fulfill this command: to go, to baptize, and to teach. Baptism is an integral part of making disciples. It publicly identifies someone as a follower of Jesus and enrolls them in the school of Christ.
By being baptized, we are marking ourselves as part of “Team Jesus,” acknowledging that we are playing by His rules and following His commands. Through baptism, we express our commitment to obey everything that He has commanded.
- Publicly Professing Faith in Christ
The second reason to consider baptism is to profess your faith in Jesus publicly. While implied in Matthew 28:19, this aspect is more explicitly seen in other passages of Scripture.
For instance, when Peter preached on Pentecost, those who heard him were convicted of their sin and asked what they should do. Peter responded by urging them to repent and be baptized (Acts 2:37–38). We then read, “So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41). Receiving the Word and being baptized were inseparable. Baptism served as a public proclamation of their acceptance of Jesus as the crucified and resurrected Messiah. Similarly, baptism allows us to declare our trust in Christ openly.
The Apostle Paul connects baptism with faith in Colossians 2:11–12. Addressing a congregation of baptized Christians, Paul speaks of them being buried and raised with Christ in baptism. Baptism is a visible, tangible, public expression of faith in Christ. It confirms, strengthens, and deepens our faith. It also aligns with Jesus’s warning that if we deny Him before others, He will deny us before the Father (Matthew 10:32–33).
Publicly professing faith in Christ should become a regular part of our lives. Christians should be known for their commitment to Christ and eager to share the good news with others. Baptism sets us on this path, making our faith visible and challenging us to live it out consistently.
- Commitment to Christ and His People
In baptism, we not only commit ourselves to Christ but also to His people. As mentioned earlier, those who received the Word on Pentecost were baptized and added to the church (Acts 2:41). Baptism signifies a transition from the world into the community of believers. It demonstrates loyalty to Christ and enlistment in His company. Our commitment to Christ’s people naturally follows our commitment to Christ.
This commitment is not superficial but transformative. The early church in Jerusalem, including the three thousand baptized on Pentecost, devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). They shared their lives and possessions, caring for one another’s needs. Baptism united them to Christ and to each other, resulting in a rich and awe-inspiring communion. Baptism solidifies our connection to the church and places us within a community that strengthens and sustains us.
In 1 Corinthians 12:13, Paul emphasizes that baptism unites us to the body of Christ locally and universally. Baptism signifies our rebirth and incorporation into the body of believers. It connects us to a local church, where we can experience the fullness of Christian fellowship, mutual support, and shared joys and sorrows.
In baptism, there is a mutual commitment between the individual and the church. As we seek welcome from the church, the church extends its embrace. We pledge ourselves to the community, and the community pledges itself to us. Christianity is not meant to be lived in isolation, but in the light of the church’s caring presence. Baptism positions us within the strengthening and sustaining communion of Christ’s people.
Baptism holds deep significance for Christians. It is a command from Christ, a public profession of faith, and a commitment to Christ and His people. By embracing baptism, we fulfill Christ’s call to make disciples, openly declare our faith, and solidify our connection to the body of believers. Baptism is not a mere ritual but a heartfelt expression of our devotion to Christ and our desire to follow Him faithfully.
In considering baptism, remember that it is more than just an act of obedience or a public declaration. It is a means of experiencing the blessings and benefits of being united with Christ and His people. As you contemplate this vital step, may you find the courage and conviction to follow in the footsteps of our Lord Jesus Christ, whom Himself was baptized as an example for us to follow.
If you are ready to take make this spiritual formation decision, take a moment to let us know. https://bunkerhill.church/baptism/