Scripture reveals baptism as the believer's public identification with Christ's death and resurrection, marking the beginning of a transformed life.
Scripture on Baptism
Matthew 28:19-20
New Testament
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you."
Acts 2:38
New Testament
"Peter replied, '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.'"
Romans 6:3-4
New Testament
"Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life."
1 Peter 3:21
New Testament
"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. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ."
Colossians 2:11-12
New Testament
"In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off when you were circumcised by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead."
The Bottom Line
Baptism is your first act of obedience—going under the water to die with Jesus, rising up to live as His.
Try Today
If you haven't been baptized as a believer in Jesus, talk to your pastor or church leader this week about taking that step.
Prayer
Jesus said in Matthew 28:19 that His followers are to be baptized—and He invites you to pray about your next step of obedience.
Father, I see in Scripture that baptism is how Your people have identified with Jesus' death and resurrection since the earliest days of the church. I want to follow Him openly and completely. If I haven't been baptized, give me courage to take that step. If I have, remind me what it meant—that I died to myself and rose to live for You. Help me live out that reality today. In Jesus' name, Amen.
📚 Read Acts 8 to see how the early church practiced baptism immediately and joyfully.
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