The Way of Christ has many details to keep in mind, some of which can have more importance in the minds of Bible readers than others. One of these practices that has fallen out of favor over time, but is thankfully making a comeback is the practice of Baptism. But people have all sorts of reasons, right and wrong, for doing it. So, in this article, we will explore some reasons for being baptized so you can see if it is for you.

For the person who wants to be clothed with Christ (Gal. 3:26-29). Every day people come to Christ, but not everyone is sincere. Some want to pretend that they are a child of God, while others actually want to be His child. But if you are going to be adopted into His family, you need to “dress the part.” That’s where baptism comes in. Paul reminds the Galatians that baptism is how they proved their faith and became God’s children.

For the person who wants to become a follower of Christ (Matt. 28:18-20). Jesus’ last words before ascending to the Father were instructions on how to become His follower, even if you hadn’t met Him. Step 1, be baptized. Step 2, start learning. That’s being a disciple is all about.

For the person who wants to enter the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:12-13). “The body” is another idiom for “The Church.” In the world, there are people who are members of the Church, and those who aren’t. Believers and non-believers. What is the visible, demonstrable distinction? Whether or not they were baptized!

For the person who wants to enter God’s people (1 Cor. 10:1-6). Even the Israelites were baptized, in a manner of speaking. They passed through the water of the Red Sea so that they could escape slavery and go to the promised land. Paul says that their example is for our learning!

For the person who wants to have resurrection (Rom. 6:1-7). Usually, people come to Christ so that they can have eternal life. Well, eternal life begins now, specifically, in baptism. This practice is how we gain our connection to the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Who wouldn’t want that?

For the person who wants to be saved from their sins (Acts 2:36-42, 1 Pet. 3:18-21). Everybody has sinned. When the audience in Jerusalem realized it, they begged for a solution. Peter told them it was baptism. Furthermore, it is how the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in His people (Rom. 8, Eph. 1). Later in his letters, he would say that being submerged in water is what gives us salvation in Christ. So, who exactly is baptism for? Well, in short, baptism is for everyone! Do you want to have a relationship with God and be forgiven of your sins? This is the Way. Have you been baptized yet?                                           

– DMF