Baptism is a simple command with profound meaning, yet it has often been misunderstood throughout Church history. While some have been baptized without true faith, others who genuinely believe have delayed or neglected this sacred act. Scripture is clear: Jesus commanded, “Go therefore 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 optional—it is the believer’s first act of obedience and an outward declaration of an inward transformation.

The Greek word baptizo means “to immerse,” capturing the full picture of salvation: our old self buried with Christ, our new life raised in Him. Through baptism, we publicly proclaim that we have died to sin and risen to walk in newness of life. It is not the means of salvation, but a visible testimony that Jesus is Lord, that His blood has cleansed us, and that our lives now belong to Him.

From ancient Israel to the ministry of John the Baptist, baptism has symbolized cleansing and preparation for God. When Jesus entered the Jordan River, He identified with sinners to fulfill all righteousness, foreshadowing His death, burial, and resurrection. Today, every believer who follows Him in baptism participates in this powerful testimony—a declaration that the old has passed away and that life in Christ has begun. How does your baptism reflect the transformation Christ has worked in your heart?