Reading the four Gospels and the book of Acts, it is clear that calling people to believe in Jesus and follow him, is front and centre in the mission of the church. We also see the pattern of people believing and being baptised. Baptism is an act of obedience in response to coming to saving faith in Jesus. It is a public act where a person declares their allegiance to Jesus and intention to follow him.
“By our Baptism, then, we were buried with Christ and shared His death in order that just as Christ was raised from death by the glorious power of God the Father, so also we might live a new life.” Romans 6:4
“Whoever believes and is baptised will be saved . . . ,” Mark 16:16
“Repent and be baptised, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” Acts 2:38
1. Because you want to follow Christ’s example.
Jesus himself was baptised. He was not a sinner, yet he humbled himself in obedience to identify with us and give us an example to follow. “At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptised by John in the Jordan.” (Mark 1:9)
2. Because Christ commanded it.
Water baptism is an act of faith and obedience to the commands of Christ. “If you love me, you will obey what I command” (John 14:15; James 2:17-18). “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20).
3. Because it shows you are a believer.
Baptism declares that you are a follower of Jesus Christ. It is a public confession of your faith in, and commitment to, Jesus Christ. It is the next step after salvation through repentance and faith and is an important foundation for the Christian life (Hebrews 6:1-2).