Understanding Baptism- Baptism is one of the most important steps in the Christian life. It is not just a religious ceremony but a sign of faith and obedience to God. Baptism shows that a person has accepted Jesus Christ, who turned away from sin, and is ready to live a new life. In this article, we will learn what is the meaning of baptism is, its importance, and how it helps every believer.
What Is Baptism?
The word baptism comes from the Greek word baptizo, which means to dip or to immerse. In Christianity, baptism means being dipped in water as a picture of leaving behind the old, sinful life and starting a new life with Jesus.
There are three main ways of baptism that the Bible talks about. These baptisms are:
Water Baptism: Going into the water to show faith in Jesus.
Holy Spirit Baptism: Receiving power from the Holy Spirit to live a strong Christian life.
Baptism of Fire: Going through tests and challenges that make a believer stronger in faith.
Baptism in The Bible
Jesus Example
- Jesus Himself was baptised by John the Baptist in the River Jordan (Matthew 3:13–17). Even though Jesus never sinned, He was baptised to set an example for us.
Jesus’ Command
Before going back to heaven, Jesus told His disciples:
- Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)
- This shows baptism is not just an option—it is a command.
Early Church Practice
- In Acts 2:38, Peter told the people: Repent and be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven.
- Baptism is closely connected with repentance and forgiveness.
Understanding Baptism in Spirituality
1. Death and New Life
Romans 6:4 says that baptism is like being buried with Jesus and rising again with Him. It shows that our old, sinful life is gone and we are now living a new life with Christ.
2. Public Declaration
Baptism is like standing up and saying in front of everyone: “I belong to Jesus.” Just like a wedding shows the world that two people are married, baptism shows that a believer is joined to Christ.
3. Obedience to God
When a believer gets baptised, it shows obedience. It is the first step of obeying Jesus after being saved.
4. Symbol of Cleansing
The water in baptism is a picture of cleansing. It does not wash away sins physically, but it represents the inner cleaning that happens when Jesus forgives us.
Importance of Understanding Baptism
1. It Connects Us to Jesus
Through baptism, we identify with Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.
2. It Breaks the Old Life
Baptism shows that we are leaving behind our old sinful ways and walking in a new life.
3. It Prepares Us to Receive the Holy Spirit
In Acts 2:38, baptism is connected with receiving the Holy Spirit. This helps us live a powerful Christian life.
4. It Is a Testimony to Others
Baptism shows the world that we are followers of Jesus. It encourages other believers and is a witness to non-believers.
5. It Prepares Us for God’s Kingdom
Baptism is part of the journey of holiness. It is a step that helps us get ready to live forever in God’s kingdom.
Some Common Questions About Baptism
Do You Need Baptism to Be Saved?
We are saved by believing in Jesus (Ephesians 2:8–9). But baptism is the outward sign of that faith. A true believer should not refuse baptism.
Can Babies Be Baptised?
In the Bible, baptism is always linked with repentance and personal faith. Since babies cannot make that choice, baptism is for those who are old enough to believe.
How Should Baptism Be Done?
The Bible shows baptism as full immersion in water. This clearly shows the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.
Baptism and Christian Life
Baptism is only the beginning of a believer’s journey. After baptism, a Christian should keep growing in faith through prayer, reading the Bible, being part of the church, and telling others about Jesus. Baptism gives believers the strength to live boldly for God.
Conclusion
Understanding Baptism is more than a simple tradition. It is a command from Jesus, a picture of inner change, and a public declaration of faith. Every believer is called to follow Christ’s example and be baptised.
As Apostle Vinod Kumar Prochia teaches, baptism is the doorway to a new spiritual life. It is not something to delay or ignore. It should be joyfully accepted as an act of obedience and love toward Jesus Christ.
