Following Jesus in Baptism
By Ryan Dawson
Baptism is one of the most significant steps a believer can take in their journey of faith. It is an outward expression of an inward transformation—a public declaration that we belong to Jesus. But why baptism by immersion? What makes this method meaningful, and why should those who haven’t taken this step consider it?
1. Baptism by Immersion Follows Jesus’ Example
Jesus Himself was baptized by immersion. In Matthew 3:16, we read: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water." This passage shows that Jesus went down into the water and came back up—indicating full immersion. If Jesus, who was without sin, chose to be baptized in this way, how much more should we follow His example?
2. Baptism Illuminates the Gospel Message
Baptism is a beautiful picture of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Romans 6:4 states: "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." When a believer is fully immersed in water, it symbolizes dying to their old self, being buried with Christ, and rising to new life in Him. This vivid imagery is best expressed through full immersion.
3. Baptism by Immersion Aligns with Early Church Practice
The book of Acts gives multiple examples of baptism by immersion. In Acts 8:38-39, Philip baptizes the Ethiopian eunuch, and the text says, "Both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water..." This account, like others in Scripture, supports immersion as the common practice of the early church.
4. Baptism is a Step of Obedience and a Public Declaration
Jesus commanded His followers to be baptized. In Matthew 28:19, He instructed His disciples: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Baptism is not what saves us, but it is an act of obedience that demonstrates our faith and commitment to Christ. It is a way of saying, "I belong to Jesus, and I want the world to know!"
If you have accepted Jesus as your Saviour but have not yet been baptized, this is your invitation to take that step of faith. It’s natural to feel nervous, but remember, baptism is a moment of celebration! It’s an opportunity to publicly proclaim your faith, experience the joy of obedience, and identify with Christ in a powerful way. There is always blessing on the other side of obedience so follow in the footsteps of your Lord into the water!
Are you ready to take this next step in your faith journey? Our next Baptism Sunday is scheduled for February 2 and if you have questions or you are interested in being baptized, please reach out to me at ryand@sequoiachurch.org or speak with anyone on our pastoral team. We’d love to walk alongside you as you follow Jesus in this meaningful act of faith and obedience!
Blessings, Ryan
Baptism is one of the most significant steps a believer can take in their journey of faith. It is an outward expression of an inward transformation—a public declaration that we belong to Jesus. But why baptism by immersion? What makes this method meaningful, and why should those who haven’t taken this step consider it?
1. Baptism by Immersion Follows Jesus’ Example
Jesus Himself was baptized by immersion. In Matthew 3:16, we read: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water." This passage shows that Jesus went down into the water and came back up—indicating full immersion. If Jesus, who was without sin, chose to be baptized in this way, how much more should we follow His example?
2. Baptism Illuminates the Gospel Message
Baptism is a beautiful picture of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Romans 6:4 states: "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." When a believer is fully immersed in water, it symbolizes dying to their old self, being buried with Christ, and rising to new life in Him. This vivid imagery is best expressed through full immersion.
3. Baptism by Immersion Aligns with Early Church Practice
The book of Acts gives multiple examples of baptism by immersion. In Acts 8:38-39, Philip baptizes the Ethiopian eunuch, and the text says, "Both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water..." This account, like others in Scripture, supports immersion as the common practice of the early church.
4. Baptism is a Step of Obedience and a Public Declaration
Jesus commanded His followers to be baptized. In Matthew 28:19, He instructed His disciples: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Baptism is not what saves us, but it is an act of obedience that demonstrates our faith and commitment to Christ. It is a way of saying, "I belong to Jesus, and I want the world to know!"
If you have accepted Jesus as your Saviour but have not yet been baptized, this is your invitation to take that step of faith. It’s natural to feel nervous, but remember, baptism is a moment of celebration! It’s an opportunity to publicly proclaim your faith, experience the joy of obedience, and identify with Christ in a powerful way. There is always blessing on the other side of obedience so follow in the footsteps of your Lord into the water!
Are you ready to take this next step in your faith journey? Our next Baptism Sunday is scheduled for February 2 and if you have questions or you are interested in being baptized, please reach out to me at ryand@sequoiachurch.org or speak with anyone on our pastoral team. We’d love to walk alongside you as you follow Jesus in this meaningful act of faith and obedience!
Blessings, Ryan