Water baptism is a public, outward expression of an inward decision to follow Jesus. It is one of the ordinances of the church—something Jesus commanded His followers to do.
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19–20
Baptism is typically performed by a pastor or church leader and is often celebrated with family and friends watching. It’s a joyful moment where you declare, “I belong to Jesus.”
Water baptism is for those who have personally chosen to follow Jesus. In the New Testament, baptism always follows a conscious decision to believe in Christ.
“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
The early church practiced believer’s baptism—baptism for those who understand their faith and have placed their trust in Jesus. Even Jesus Himself was baptized as an adult, by full immersion in water, as an example for us.
If you have put your faith in Jesus and want to follow Him, water baptism is your next step.
This is a common and important question. The Bible is clear: we are saved by grace through faith, not by any outward act—including baptism.
“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
“God saved you by his grace when you believed… It is a gift from God.” Ephesians 2:8–9
Baptism is not the cause of your salvation—it is the celebration of it. It doesn’t earn God’s love; it responds to it.
Water baptism is a vivid symbol of what Jesus has done for you and in you.
“Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was… For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin.” Romans 6:5–7
Through baptism, you are:
When you go under the water, it symbolizes the death and burial of your old life. When you come up out of the water, it represents your new life in Jesus.
Water baptism matters because:
Baptism doesn’t make you a Christian, but it boldly declares to the church and the world that you are following Jesus.
Not at all—baptism is more like the starting line of your walk with Jesus. It marks your decision to follow Him, but God has so much more for you: growth, transformation, serving others, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and walking daily in His presence.
“He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.” Titus 3:4–5
Baptism is a key moment, but it’s just the beginning of a lifelong journey with God.
Water baptism is a testimony of:
Many people have been drawn to Jesus simply by watching someone else be baptized and hearing their story. Your step of obedience could impact someone else’s eternity.