Baptism is a central ordinance in Christianity, symbolizing the believer’s faith, repentance, and commitment to God. The King James Bible (KJV) provides clear instruction on the necessity and significance of baptism. Throughout the Scriptures, baptism is tied to obedience, the remission of sins, and entrance into the body of Christ. Let us explore the biblical foundation of baptism, its purpose, and the call to believers to be baptized according to the command of Jesus Christ.
The Command to Be Baptized
Baptism is not optional but a direct command from Jesus Christ. In the Great Commission, Christ instructs His disciples:
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” (Matthew 28:19, KJV)
This command makes it clear that baptism is an essential part of discipleship. Christ not only commands baptism but ties it to teaching, showing that it follows faith and understanding of the gospel.
Another foundational passage that underscores the necessity of baptism is found in the Gospel of Mark:
“He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” (Mark 16:16, KJV)
Here, belief and baptism are linked to salvation. While faith is the foundation, baptism is the outward expression of that inward belief, signifying obedience to the Word of God.
Baptism for the Remission of Sins
Baptism is also directly tied to the remission (forgiveness) of sins. On the Day of Pentecost, when the people were convicted of their sins and asked the apostles what they must do, Peter gave them this instruction:
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38, KJV)
This passage emphasizes several important points:
Repentance comes first, showing that baptism follows a conscious decision to turn from sin.
Baptism is for the remission of sins, meaning that through it, believers receive the cleansing of their sins.
The gift of the Holy Ghost follows baptism, demonstrating its role in the new birth experience.
The necessity of baptism in washing away sins is further reinforced in the testimony of Paul, who was instructed:
“And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” (Acts 22:16, KJV)
Paul, who became one of the greatest apostles, was commanded to be baptized to wash away his sins. This shows that even those who have already encountered Christ in a personal way must still undergo baptism as part of their obedience to the gospel.
Baptism: A Burial and Resurrection with Christ
Baptism is not merely a symbolic act but represents a profound spiritual truth. It is an identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul explains:
“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:3-4, KJV)
This passage reveals that:
Baptism is a burial of the old sinful nature.
Baptism connects the believer to Christ’s death.
Rising from baptism signifies being resurrected to new life in Christ.
This connection to Christ’s death and resurrection is further emphasized in Colossians:
“Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12, KJV)
Just as Christ was buried and raised, believers undergo the same process spiritually through baptism.
Baptism as a Step of Obedience and Faith
Baptism is not a work that earns salvation but an act of faith and obedience to God’s command. It is the answer of a good conscience toward God, as stated in:
“The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 3:21, KJV)
Here, baptism is linked to salvation, not as a mere washing of the body but as a spiritual response to God’s call.
Conclusion: Be Ye Baptized
The Bible clearly teaches that baptism is essential for believers. It is:
A command from Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19).
Tied to salvation (Mark 16:16).
For the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).
A burial and resurrection with Christ (Romans 6:3-4).
The answer of a good conscience toward God (1 Peter 3:21).
If you have not been baptized according to the biblical pattern, now is the time to obey the Word of God. As Ananias told Paul, “Why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized” (Acts 22:16).
May every soul seeking to follow Christ fully embrace this sacred act, walking in obedience and experiencing the power of new life in Him. Be ye baptized!
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