“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead… we too may live a new life.” Romans 6:4 (NIV)

Baptism is a living picture of a person joining in the death and burial of Jesus when going under the water and in the resurrection of Jesus when emerging from the water.

In Scripture, baptism follows a life-altering encounter with the gospel of Jesus that involves:

1. Understanding the Gospel — Acts 16:14-15 shows Lydia’s heart being opened to the gospel message before she was baptized.
2. Awareness of Sin and Need for a Savior — Romans 6:1-7 teaches about dying to our old life of sin and being raised to new life in Christ through baptism.
3. Repentance — Acts 2:37-38 emphasizes turning away from sin as an aspect of baptism.
4. Faith in Jesus — Acts 16:29-33 recounts the jailer and his household believing in Jesus before their baptism.
5. Commitment to Discipleship — Matthew 28:19-20 teaches that those who are baptized learn to obey all of Jesus’ commands.