The Meaning and the Importance of Baptism
Baptism is the ceremony that allows our spirit to be born again. Through it, God buries our sin in water and we can live a new life in Christ (Ro 6:1–4).
“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.”
Jesus’ crucifixion represents our recognition and repentance of sin. Jesus’ burial symbolizes the burial of our sins in water through baptism. And, Jesus’ resurrection corresponds to our commitment to living a new life following Christ. In return for our pledge to live a new life, God promises us salvation (1Pe 3:21).
“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.”
God promised us numerous blessings in baptism: entering the Kingdom of Heaven (Jn 3:5), receiving the forgiveness of sins and the Holy Spirit (Ac 2:38), and becoming a child of God (Gal 3:26).
Baptism is not simply a ritual, but part of the New Covenant. Jesus taught us not only to be baptized but to also follow the teachings of the New Covenant. This includes the Sabbath Day, the Passover, and the rest of the Feasts of God.
Lastly, the baptism through which we can receive all of God’s promises must be performed according to the criteria Jesus left for us 2,000 years ago: in the three names of God.
“‘Baptize them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.’”
Matthew 28:19 (NCV)
