Why Baptism Matters

If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I really need to get baptized?” you’re not alone. Baptism can feel like a big step – and that’s because it is! It’s one of the most meaningful and memorable decisions you’ll ever make as a follower of Jesus.

So let’s break it down: what baptism is, why it matters, and why it might just be your next step.

Baptism Is About Following Jesus

The simplest reason we get baptized? Jesus told us to.

In Mark 16:16, Jesus said, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”

First, we believe that Jesus is our Lord and Savior. Then, we show that belief to everyone else through baptism. It’s an outward expression of our inward decision to follow Jesus.

And Jesus didn’t just talk about baptism. He modeled it for us. In Matthew 3, Jesus was baptized by John in the Jordan River. If Jesus, the Son of God, stepped into the water to set the example, we can follow Him, and do the same.

Baptism Is a Picture of a New Life

Think of baptism as a living snapshot of the gospel, something we get to see and experience, not just read about.

When we’re lowered into the water, it represents the death and burial of Jesus. When we’re lifted back up, it’s a picture of His resurrection.

That means baptism is a way of saying: “The old me is gone, and I’m brand new in Christ.”

Romans 6:4 puts it this way: “We were 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.”

It’s powerful because it connects your personal story to the greatest story ever told.

Baptism Doesn’t Save You, But It Shows You’re Saved

Here’s something important to know: baptism itself doesn’t save you. There is nothing supernatural or special about the water.

Only Jesus saves. Salvation comes by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). The moment you put your trust in Him, you’re made new on the inside.

So, why do we still get baptized? Because it’s the outward expression of that inward decision. Think of it like a wedding ring. The ring doesn’t make you married, but it shows the world you’ve made a commitment.

Baptism is a public way of declaring, “I belong to Jesus now!”

Baptism Is a Step of Obedience and Boldness

Our faith isn’t meant to stay private. Romans 10:13-14 encourages us that faith is meant to be lived out loud: “For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”

Baptism is your chance to draw a line in the sand and say, “I’m all in, and this is why you should be, too”

Yes, it can feel a little nerve-wracking to stand in front of people, but everyone will be there cheering and celebrating with you.

You’ll never forget the moment, standing in the water, declaring your faith, and stepping into a brand new chapter in your life.

Baptism Is a Celebration

At Faith Church, baptisms aren’t quiet or boring. We know this is a big deal. This is something to celebrate!

Families come together, friends take pictures, and the whole church is there for you. It’s such an exciting moment because baptism doesn’t focus on what you’ve done, but what Jesus will continue to do in you.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time

There’s never a “perfect” time when you’ll feel 100% ready. Feeling nervous is totally normal. And if you’re thinking, “well, I messed up today..” we ALL make mistakes because we’re never going to be perfect this side of Heaven.

If you’ve decided to follow Jesus, you are ready to be baptized. Don’t let nerves, questions, or hesitation hold you back. You don’t have to have things all figured out. Just say yes to Jesus and commit to taking your next step.

Ready for Baptism Weekend?

So, why should you get baptized?

Because Jesus modeled it.
Because it declares your new life to the world.
Because it’s your next step of obedience.
And because it’s a celebration worth having.

Baptism Weekend is coming up at Faith Church, and we’d love to celebrate with you. If you’ve decided to follow Jesus but haven’t been baptized yet, this is your moment.

Take the step. Go public with your faith. And experience the power of baptism for yourself.