The Bible teaches that baptism is an outward expression of an inward faith
The Bible teaches that baptism is an outward expression of an inward faith. It is a public declaration that a person has trusted in Jesus Christ, turned from sin, and entered into a new life with Him. Baptism does not save a person, but it is an important step of obedience that follows salvation. Baptism symbolizes several spiritual truths. First, it represents our union with Christ. Scripture teaches, “We were buried with Him through baptism into death… that we too may live a new life” (Romans 6:4). Going under the water symbolizes dying to the old life, and coming out of the water pictures the new life believers have in Christ. Second, baptism identifies a believer with the body of Christ. In the New Testament, those who believed were baptized and became part of the community of faith. Acts 2:41 says, “Those who accepted his message were baptized.” Baptism marked their public commitment to Christ and His church. Third, Jesus Himself commanded baptism. Before His ascension, He instructed His disciples: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them…” (Matthew 28:19). The command to make disciples includes teaching and baptizing, showing that baptism is not optional but part of the believer’s obedience to Christ. Fourth, baptism is an act of confession and testimony. It is a visible way of declaring to others that a person has been cleansed by Christ. Peter wrote that baptism is “the pledge of a clear conscience toward God” (1 Peter 3:21). It does not wash away sin by the water itself, but it expresses the inner cleansing that salvation produces. While baptism is not a requirement for salvation, it is a command for those who have been saved. Salvation comes by grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8–9), but obedience follows faith. The pattern in the New Testament is consistent: first belief, then baptism (Acts 8:12; Acts 10:47–48). In summary, baptism is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. It symbolizes death to the old life and resurrection to a new life, identifies believers with the body of Christ, and expresses obedience to the Lord’s command. While baptism does not save, every follower of Christ is called to obey Him by being baptized as an expression of their faith and commitment.