Baptism is a Commandment of god a procedure that puts one into Christ where salvation is found.
Baptism is accomplished by being immersed in water, not sprinkled. It is a burial in water, an immersion, down into the water, then raised out of the water.
Thayer’s Greek Lexicon definitions for baptism:
Strongs number is: 907
- 1. properly, to dip repeatedly, to immerse, submerge
- 2. to cleanse by dipping or submerging, to make overwhelmed, (i.e. fully wet); used only (in the NT.) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordinance of Christian baptism
Four reasons what baptism is:
- Baptism a Command
- Baptism Essential
- Baptism Puts One into Christ
- Baptism a Burial
Baptism a Command
When reading a verse with a direct command from god we know that it must be carried out to achieve what he wants done.
Three Verses on Command:
Matthew 28:19 (NASB)
- 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit
Mark 16:16 (KJV)
- 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
Acts 10:48 (NASB)
- 48 And he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to stay on for a few days.
Baptism Essential
When you are baptized all past sins are forgiven. To retain this you must be vigilant, living faithful and in prayer.
Three Verses on Essential:
Baptism is essential it now saves you”, 1 Peter 3:21 (NASB)
- 21 And corresponding to that, baptism now saves you– not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience– through the resurrection of Jesus Christ
Baptism is not then, “the removal of dirt from the flesh”, But it places you in the Church where then sin is removed and salvation is found.
Mark 16:15-16 (NASB)
- 15 And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
- 16 “He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned.
Acts 2:38 (NASB)
- 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent, and let each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.