Baptism as Jesus Taught It
What it is, Where it came from, and Why it matters
Why Baptism Matters
“Go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you.” — Matthew 28:19–20
Baptism is the only act Jesus specifically tied to becoming His disciple...
Where Baptism Came From
- Old Testament: Ritual washings in mikvahs for purification (Leviticus 16:4, 23–24).
- John the Baptist: Baptism of repentance (Luke 3:3; Mark 1:4–5).
- Jesus: Affirmed John's baptism and later commanded it universally (Mark 1:9; Matthew 3:15; 28:19–20).
What Jesus Taught About Baptism
- By His Authority: Baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).
- By Immersion: Modeled by Jesus in the Jordan River (Mark 1:10).
- For All Nations: Expanded beyond Israel (Matthew 28:19).
- As a New Beginning: “Born of water and Spirit” (John 3:5).
The Meaning of Baptism
- Death and Resurrection: Mark 10:38; Luke 12:50
- Cleansing and Forgiveness: Acts 2:38
- New Birth: John 3:5
- New Covenant Entrance: Luke 22:20
How Baptism is Performed
- Believe: Repent and believe the gospel.
- Confess: Acknowledge Jesus as Lord.
- Be Baptized: Immersion in water by another disciple, saying:
“I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, for the forgiveness of your sins.” - Walk in New Life: Begin obeying His commands and learning daily.
Baptism can occur anywhere water is available. The act, not the location, is what matters. Any baptized disciple may perform the baptism—no special title is required.
What Makes the Baptism Jesus Taught Unique?
- Done once, not repeated.
- By immersion, not sprinkling.
- Follows repentance and belief.
- Uses Jesus’ words, not man-made tradition.
- Marks the beginning of obedience and spiritual rebirth.
Are You Ready?
“He who believes and is baptized will be saved.” — Mark 16:16
If you believe and are ready to obey, baptism is your next step. If you have questions or need help, reach out. The path is clear. The time to obey is now.