1 Peter 3:21-22, “and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand-with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.”

I got baptized this June at our annual Lakeblast. It was one of the best days of my life as I got to declare to the world how much Jesus has done for me! I have been following Jesus for almost my whole life, but the months leading up to baptism had been a tough, lonely season. God lifted me out and did significant healing in my heart, and I felt the Holy Spirit prompting me to get baptized. For me, baptism signified a fresh start.

Choosing to get baptized is an exciting decision, but for some people it may be intimidating. It does not have to be that way. Understanding more about baptism will help you decide if you’re ready to be baptized!

So what is baptism?

Baptism symbolizes many things to a believer. Being dunked under water demonstrates our death and sin, and rising out of the water shows we are washed clean from sin and have new life in Jesus. He is our Savior! It is a beautiful picture of our unity with Jesus in his death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). We are no longer bound to our sinful nature, we are made new and we anticipate life with Jesus in heaven someday!

As Christians who are born again into new life, we are joined into God’s family of believers. We have a membership—a special place in God’s family. We are His daughters and sons. 1 Corinthians 12:13 says, “we are all baptized by one Spirit into one body.” That’s the body of Christ! Every believer has a place and a purpose here on earth.

As disciples of Jesus, we are commanded to “go into the world and preach the good news” for “whoever believes and is baptized will be saved” (Mark 16:15-16). We hear the gospel and the Holy Spirit shows us how much we need Jesus. We believe and are saved. Salvation and baptism go together. But let’s be clear—getting baptized does not save you. Jesus Christ is our Savior; when we ask Him into our hearts we are then saved. Baptism symbolizes new spiritual birth. It is an outward expression of the internal change.

Should I get baptized?

Yes! Jesus commands believers to be baptized. He himself was baptized at the start of His ministry, and we now get to follow His example!

Like I said before, baptism signifies a fresh start and you can get baptized for many reasons. Maybe you got baptized as a child, and didn’t really know what it meant, but now is the time to choose for yourself when is the right time.

Maybe you’ve never been baptized and you’ve decided that this is your next step in your faith. Maybe you’ve been a Christian for a long time, but God’s been moving in your life significantly and you want to show that move of God through baptism.

If you feel like you’re ready to take the next step in your faith and be baptized, there’s a possibility for you! While we’re celebrating rebirth, there will be an opportunity to get baptized on Sunday, November 18. If you’re interested in getting baptized, or if you just have questions, you can take a baptism class that will discuss details. Check out the different classes below:

Saturday, Nov 17, 9am at Grape Road

Saturday, Nov 17, 5pm at Jackson Road

As an Assistant Director at the Grape Road Location, Ileana comes alongside families and volunteers to raise our children to be genuine followers of Christ. She also helps plan Grape Road’s outreaches and other campus events. Ileana also loves Thai mango sticky rice. 

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