Be Baptized
Scripture Focus: Matthew 28:19; Acts 8:26-39
This is a new series of the commands our Lord Jesus Christ gave. I understand this is very limited, and I will get to each of these in greater detail as I move through this adventure. This blog is the second of five upcoming messages.
In the Great Commission, Jesus commands, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). Baptism is a powerful act of obedience that symbolizes our new life in Christ. But what is baptism, and why does it matter?
Baptism represents our union with Jesus in His death, burial, and resurrection. Romans 6:3-4 explains, “All of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death… so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead, we too may live a new life.” It’s a public declaration that we’ve died to our old selves and are raised with Christ. In Acts 8:26-39, Philip shares the gospel with an Ethiopian official, who immediately asks, “What prevents me from being baptized?” His faith leads to baptism, and he goes on his way rejoicing.
Jesus set the example by being baptized (Matthew 3:13-15), fulfilling righteousness. Baptism identifies us as His followers, showing the world we belong to Him. Acts 2:38 teaches that those who repent and believe should be baptized for the forgiveness of sins. It’s not optional—it’s a command for every believer. Matthew 3:16 shows Jesus was immersed in water, modeling how baptism should be done.
If you’ve repented and believed but haven’t been baptized, take that step of obedience. Talk to your pastor about what baptism means in your church. If you’re already baptized, encourage others to follow Jesus in this way, just as Philip did. Baptism is a celebration of new life—embrace it and share it.