We have talked about baptism as an act of obedience and a moment when the world’s grip is broken. But baptism is more than a cleansing; it’s a crossing. It’s the moment we step out of the old and into the new, forever connected to Christ’s resurrection.
1 Peter 3:18-21 tells us that the waters of baptism save us - not by washing away dirt from our skin, but by presenting us before God with a clear conscience through Jesus’ resurrection. In that moment, something spiritual happens, linking us to Christ’s resurrection and transforming us in the eyes of God. We are no longer defined by sin but by His victory. Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose again, granting us new life. When we enter the waters of baptism, we declare our identification with Him.
Romans 6:4 explains the significance of baptism: “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.”
Baptism consists of 2 symbolic actions: Going into the water represents being buried with Christ, dying to sin, and leaving behind our old identity shaped by the world, while rising out of the water symbolizes resurrection into new life with Christ, our spiritual rebirth, and our adoption as citizens of heaven.
When Jesus was baptized, the Father declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17). This moment marked the beginning of Jesus' Spirit-led ministry. Likewise, when we are baptized, we step into the new identity that God has given us - free from the world’s influence, clean in Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:12-13 teaches that through baptism, we are also brought into one body and united by one Spirit, regardless of our background or status. Baptism links us into the body of Christ, signifying our unity with fellow believers. Before receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit, we first undergo water baptism, marking our entrance into the family of God.
This unity in Christ is rooted in His name. In the Great Commission, 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.” (Matthew 28:19). While these are titles, Scripture reveals that there is only one name that holds the fullness of the Godhead - Jesus Christ.
Colossians 2:9-10 confirms this truth: “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.” The early church baptized in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38, Acts 10:48), recognizing that in Him, we receive the fullness of God’s salvation.
This is the beauty of baptism: it not only marks our transformation but also our belonging. We are no longer on the outside looking in - we are part of Christ’s body, fully embraced as His own. If you have not yet taken this step, consider the invitation of Jesus. He calls us not only to believe but to follow, to leave behind the old and step into the fullness of life with Him. Baptism is the beginning of a journey with Christ, walking in the power of His resurrection.
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