Baptism isn’t just a church tradition—it’s a clear step of obedience for anyone serious about following Jesus. It’s how you publicly declare your faith, identify with Christ’s death and resurrection, and step into new life. Jesus Himself was baptized, not because He needed to be, but to set the example for us. If He did it, we should too.
Whether you’re new to faith or have believed for years but never got baptized, this guide breaks it down in simple, direct terms. You’ll learn what baptism means, why it matters, and how to take the next step. Keep reading for a deeper dive into what Scripture says, what baptism doesn’t do, and how you can follow Jesus’ example today.
If you’re serious about following Jesus, baptism isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a step of obedience. Jesus didn’t need to be baptized because of sin. He was sinless. But He still chose to be baptized to “fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). That alone should make us pause. If the Son of God chose baptism to mark the beginning of His public ministry, then as His followers, we should do the same.
This article will walk you through why baptism matters, what it means, and how you can follow Jesus’ example today. Whether you’re new to Christianity or simply never got around to being baptized, you’ll find clear answers here.
What Is Baptism, Really?
Baptism is more than a religious ritual. It’s a public declaration of your faith in Jesus and a powerful symbol of what He’s done for you.
Here’s what baptism represents:
- Death to your old self and sin (Romans 6:3-4)
- Burial of that old life, just like Jesus was buried
- Resurrection into a new life in Christ
It’s an outward symbol of an inward change.
Think of it this way:
- You go under the water → your old self is gone.
- You come out of the water → you’re living a new life in Jesus.
It’s not the water that saves you—it’s faith in Christ. But baptism is how you show that faith.
Why Did Jesus Get Baptized?
Jesus’ baptism is recorded in Matthew 3:13-17. Let’s break that moment down:
- Jesus came to John the Baptist to be baptized.
- John tried to stop Him, saying “I need to be baptized by you” (v. 14).
- Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.”
- When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended like a dove and God said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
Jesus didn’t get baptized because He needed cleansing—He did it to:
- Identify with us as sinners (even though He never sinned)
- Set the example for all believers
- Mark the start of His public ministry
What Happens When You’re Baptized?
A few key things happen, both spiritually and symbolically.
1. You’re obeying Jesus
In Matthew 28:19, Jesus said:
“Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Baptism is part of following Jesus. It’s not optional if you’re serious about discipleship.
2. You’re publicly identifying as a follower of Jesus
It’s like wearing a wedding ring. The ring doesn’t make you married, but it tells the world you are. Baptism announces to your family, friends, and church that you belong to Jesus.
3. You’re stepping into community
Baptism is personal, but it’s also public. In the New Testament, believers were baptized right away—and usually in front of others.
See Acts 2:41:
“Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.”
When Should You Be Baptized?
If you’ve made a personal decision to follow Jesus, then the time for baptism is now.
There’s no reason to wait. The Bible doesn’t show long delays. When people believed, they were baptized.
In Acts 8:36, the Ethiopian official asked,
“Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?”
Answer? Nothing.
Don’t wait until you “feel ready” or “have it all together.” Baptism is the start of your journey, not the finish line.
How Should You Be Baptized?
The biblical model is clear: baptism by immersion.
Here’s why:
- The word “baptize” comes from the Greek baptizó, which means “to immerse” or “to dip.”
- Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River—so much water was needed that He “came up out of the water” (Mark 1:10).
- Every New Testament baptism involved going into and coming out of water.
Sprinkling or pouring isn’t the pattern Jesus gave. Immersion best reflects the death-burial-resurrection picture that baptism represents.
What If You Were Baptized As a Baby?
That’s a common question.
Infant baptism is practiced in some church traditions, but it doesn’t match the New Testament pattern. In the Bible, baptism always followed belief.
See Acts 18:8:
“Many of the Corinthians who heard Paul believed and were baptized.”
If you were baptized as a baby, that was your parents’ decision—not yours. It may have been meaningful for them, but baptism is meant to be your personal choice.
If you now follow Jesus and haven’t been baptized as a believer, it’s absolutely okay (and right) to be baptized again. You’re not rejecting your past—you’re responding to what Jesus calls you to do now.
What Does Baptism Not Do?
Let’s be clear—baptism doesn’t:
- Save you (Ephesians 2:8-9 says salvation is by grace through faith)
- Forgive your sins (only Jesus can do that)
- Make God love you more
But it does demonstrate your salvation and your decision to follow Christ. It’s your public “Yes” to Jesus.
Practical Steps: How to Get Baptized
Ready to take the step? Here’s how to do it:
1. Talk to your pastor or church leader
Most churches offer baptism classes or conversations beforehand. They’ll want to hear your story and explain what baptism looks like at your church.
2. Pick a date and location
Some churches baptize during services. Others do it in lakes, pools, or rivers. It doesn’t matter where—it matters why.
3. Invite friends and family
Let others celebrate this moment with you. Your story might inspire someone else to take their next step.
4. Share your testimony (if asked)
You don’t need a dramatic story. Just share:
- What your life was like before Christ
- How you came to know Him
- What’s changed since
Keep it simple and real.
Final Thoughts
Following Jesus isn’t just about belief—it’s about obedience. And baptism is one of the first steps of obedience every believer is called to take.
If you haven’t been baptized yet, there’s no better time than now. You don’t have to wait until you’re perfect. Just willing. Jesus stepped into the water for you—now it’s your turn to follow Him in.
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” — Acts 2:38
Key Takeaways
- Jesus was baptized to set the example—so should you.
- Baptism is a public declaration of your faith.
- It doesn’t save you, but it shows that you are saved.
- Baptism should follow your personal decision to trust Jesus.
- The Bible models baptism by full immersion.
- If you believe in Jesus, there’s no reason to wait.
Ready to take the plunge? Talk to your church, pray about it, and take the next step. You’ll never regret obeying Jesus.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Following Jesus Through Baptism
- Why did Jesus get baptized if He never sinned?
Jesus was baptized to set the example for us and to “fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). His baptism marked the start of His public ministry and showed His full identification with humanity. - Do I need to be baptized to be saved?
No. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Baptism is an outward sign of that inward faith—it’s obedience, not a requirement for salvation. - When should I get baptized?
As soon as you’ve made a personal decision to follow Jesus. In the Bible, people were baptized immediately after believing (Acts 2:41, Acts 8:36). - What’s the right way to be baptized?
The biblical model is by full immersion in water, which best represents death, burial, and resurrection with Christ (Romans 6:3-4). - Can I be baptized if I was already baptized as a baby?
Yes. Baptism in the Bible always follows personal belief. Being baptized now as a believer is a step of obedience, not a rejection of your past. - Does baptism forgive my sins?
No. Only Jesus can forgive sins. Baptism is a symbol that your sins have already been forgiven through faith in Christ. - What should I say when I get baptized?
You may be asked to briefly share your testimony—how you came to faith in Jesus. Just speak from the heart. - Can I be baptized if I’m shy or nervous?
Absolutely. Many people feel that way. God honors your obedience, not your comfort level. And your courage may inspire others. - What if I don’t feel “ready” for baptism?
Baptism isn’t about being spiritually perfect—it’s about obeying Jesus. If you’ve decided to follow Him, you are ready. - How do I take the next step toward baptism?
Talk to a pastor or church leader. They’ll guide you through what baptism looks like at your church and help you prepare.
