2. The Christian and Baptism

Acts 2:38

The word baptize means: “dip, make fully wet, to immerse, to cover.” To make it simple, water baptism is an outward sign that we have been cleaned up on the inside. Jesus was immersed in water. “And immediately coming up out of the water, He saw the heavens opened, and the spirit like a dove descending upon him”—Mark 1:9–10 NASB.

The Bible says we are “buried with him in baptism”—Romans 6:4. This means to be put fully under the water. When you bury something you do not just sprinkle it with ground. You fully cover it. This is true of water baptism.

I. THE PURPOSE OF BAPTISM

A. We are baptized because of conversion. We have accepted Christ. Peter said, “Repent [be sorry enough to give up your sins] and be baptized”—Acts 2:38.

B. We are baptized because of Christ’s command. Those who believe and are baptized shall be saved—Mark 16:16. Notice also, those who do not believe shall be lost.

C. We baptize because of Christ’s commission—Matthew 28:19. This was the commission given to the disciples, and to all Christians.

II. THE PHASES OF BAPTISM

A. The picture. We are dead to sin—we are buried—Romans 6:4. Not only buried but raised to live a new life in Christ after we are baptized—Colossians 2:12.

B. The plan. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost—Matthew 28:19. Notice this is not a church rule, but God’s Word.

C. The people. All who have been born again. After Peter’s sermon 3,000 were baptized—Acts 2:41.

III. THE PLAN OF BAPTISM

A. Requires water—Acts 8:36.

B. Requires much water—John 3:23.

C. Requires “going down into the water”—Acts 8:38.

D. Requires burial in the water—Romans 6:4.

E. Requires “coming up out of the water”—Colossians 2:12.