“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”Matthew 28:19 (KJV)
Commanded by Jesus
Jesus' final instructions to His disciples were clear: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20). Baptism is not a church tradition. It's Jesus' own invitation.
What baptism means
Paul explains that baptism is a picture of the gospel: “we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead… even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Going under the water represents dying to the old life. Coming up represents rising to a new one in Christ (Colossians 2:12).
How it was done
The word “baptize” comes from a Greek word meaning to dip or immerse. Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River and “went up straightway out of the water” (Matthew 3:16). When Philip baptized the Ethiopian official, “they went down both into the water” (Acts 8:38). Full immersion is the only form that captures the burial-and-resurrection picture Paul describes.
Who is ready?
In the Bible, baptism follows teaching, faith and repentance. On the day of Pentecost Peter said, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38). The Ethiopian asked what kept him from being baptized, and Philip answered, “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest” (Acts 8:37). For this reason baptism is for those old enough to understand and choose it for themselves, rather than infants.
No pressure, ever
Some people who study with us choose baptism; many simply enjoy learning. Baptism is a personal decision between you and God, and we'll gladly answer your questions whenever you have them.
Questions for reflection
- According to Matthew 28:19–20, what comes before and after baptism?
- What does Romans 6:3–6 say baptism represents?
- What details in Matthew 3:16 and Acts 8:36–39 show how baptism was done?
- What questions do you have about baptism?