Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. Romans 6:3,4 ESV

In 2019, footage from a baptismal service at Bethel Church in Redding, California surfaced online sparking questions, concerns, and even satire. A young lady came to the stage to tell her name and why she was getting baptized. Her response brought a roar of applause from the audience in attendance and bewilderment from those who would later hear it as she stated, “I just know that God is calling me to be a warrior for His animal kingdom and that I’m to lead an army of angels to protect animals across the world, and I just know I can’t do it without God.”

This was her reason for getting water baptized. I hope that is clear. What is not clear is her having a proper Biblical understanding of the meaning of water baptism as a believer in Christ, and this is grieving to witness. It is equally sad that this young lady was not asked ahead of time and discipled properly about water baptism. The reason for this decision should be the same from all who participated if taught from a Biblical understanding of the beautiful significance of such a public profession.

To some, it might seem trivial to talk about water baptism. This is a fundamental ordinance of our Christian faith, commanded by Jesus Christ in Scripture (Matthew 28:18-20). The example shared above is reason enough to discuss it. However, there are other instances where people teach baptismal regeneration, including casting demons out of individuals after water baptism and then having them pray in tongues. There are individuals who want to be rebaptized because they want to draw closer to Christ and to have a deeper supernatural experience. Others may repeat declarations about themselves during this event, focusing on their perceived authority and power bestowed to them by Jesus Christ. These are all concerning in their own way, and it reveals the desire for something more than the sufficiency of God’s revealed Word and instruction. It reveals the desire for an experience.

It is important for believers in Christ to have a proper understanding of water baptism. We have examples of what it is not. Let’s understand what it is. I appreciate what this author has to say about water baptism, “Christian baptism is the means by which a person makes a public profession of faith and discipleship. In the waters of baptism, a person says, wordlessly, “I confess faith in Christ; Jesus has cleansed my soul from sin, and I now have a new life of sanctification.” Christian baptism illustrates, in dramatic style, the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. At the same time, it also illustrates our death to sin and new life in Christ.”

Water baptism is an outward expression to show an inward change. Romans 6:3,4 helps us to understand what is symbolized in this act, “Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” The old man is buried with Christ in the water, and the new man in Christ comes out of the water. Our life is not our own. We belong to Christ Jesus, and it is because of Him we have newness of life. Our public profession and obedience to the command of water baptism testifies to this.

Water baptism does not save us. It is for believers, and it is a glorious display and reminder of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. It is not about us declaring our authority and power over the devil. It is not about being rebaptized in order to have a deeper encounter with God so that one can grow in hearing God’s voice or taking a trip to heaven. It is certainly not performed so that demons can be cast out more readily or so we can lead an army of angels on earth. We do not see any of these teachings modeled in the Word of God.

God’s instruction does not need our help in being more significant and supernatural. We obey Christ in being baptized, and we remember that the focus is on Him. An improper understanding of water baptism not in accordance with Scripture could lead to questioning if an individual has heard the true gospel of Jesus Christ. This is a serious matter, and out of concern and love for others, it should be discussed, directing back to the truth of Scripture.

I encourage you to watch this teaching about water baptism, especially for those who have never been baptized. I believe you will find it insightful and helpful. (359) Why Be Baptized? (Matthew 28:16-20) – YouTube

Listen to this episode of The Lovesick Scribe podcast: Understanding Water Baptism – The Lovesick Scribe Podcast | Podcast on Spotify