Short Answer: A person seeking to become a Christian should be baptized because Jesus commanded it, and the New Testament presents baptism as a faith-filled response to the gospel—where we publicly identify with Christ, receive the promised blessings of repentance and forgiveness, and begin walking in new life.
Long Answer: A person seeking to become a Christian should be baptized because Jesus commanded it, and the New Testament presents baptism as a faith-filled response to the gospel—where we publicly identify with Christ, receive the promised blessings of repentance and forgiveness, and begin walking in new life.
Baptism is not a Christian “extra.” It’s one of the clearest, most consistent practices in the New Testament for those who believe the gospel. When people heard the message about Jesus, the expected response was repentance, faith, and baptism (Acts 2:37–38; Acts 8:12).
Jesus commanded baptism
After his resurrection, Jesus told his followers to make disciples and baptize them (Matthew 28:18–20). Baptism is part of obeying Jesus’ call to discipleship. It’s not mainly about a personal tradition—it’s about submitting to Christ as Lord.
Baptism is union with Christ
The New Testament describes baptism as a moment of identification with Jesus’ death and resurrection. Paul says we are “buried with him” and “raised…to walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:3–4). Baptism is a God-given picture of the gospel: the old life is laid down, and a new life begins.
This doesn’t mean the water has magic power. It means God meets obedient faith with real grace. Baptism is not a work that earns salvation; it is a faith-response that receives what God promises.
Baptism is connected to forgiveness and new life
In Acts 2, Peter calls listeners to repent and be baptized “for the forgiveness of your sins,” and he connects that response to receiving God’s gift (Acts 2:38). Later, Paul describes baptism as the moment of “washing” connected to calling on Jesus’ name (Acts 22:16). Peter also connects baptism with salvation—not as mere outward washing, but as an appeal to God from a sincere heart through Jesus’ resurrection (1 Peter 3:21).
Taken together, the New Testament presents baptism as part of a complete turning to Christ—repentance, faith, and obedience—where God applies the benefits of the gospel to the believer.
Baptism is a public declaration of allegiance to Jesus for the remission of sins
Baptism is how believers openly say, “Jesus is my Lord” (1 Peter 3:21). It’s a step of allegiant obedience that strengthens faith and encourages the church. It’s also a clear line in the sand: I belong to Christ now (Galatians 3:27).
Who should be baptized?
In the New Testament, baptism follows belief and repentance. That’s why it’s commonly practiced as baptism of believers (Acts 8:36–38). The consistent pattern is: hear the gospel, believe, repent, and be baptized.
What to do next
- If you believe in Jesus and haven’t been baptized, there is no need to wait (Acts 8:36).
- If you were baptized in a way that didn’t reflect personal faith (or you’re unsure), have an honest conversation with a pastor/elder about what Scripture teaches.
- Prepare your heart: repent of sin, confess Jesus as Lord, and invite trusted believers to celebrate and support you.
- As part of your baptism commit to faithful discipleship—Scripture, prayer, church life, and learning obedience (Matthew 28:20).
Key Scriptures: Matt 28:18–20; Acts 2:37–38; Rom 6:3–4; Gal 3:27; Acts 22:16; 1 Pet 3:21; Acts 8:36–38