Water baptism is by immersion after genuine repentance and acceptance of Jesus Christ as personal Savior. It symbolizes the death and burial of a sinner into the death and burial of Jesus Christ. Rising out of the watery grave symbolizes His resurrection. Also symbolizing purification, baptism prepares one for the receipt of the Holy Spirit. When one rises from his watery grave, he is to be a new person, led by God's Spirit and conducting his life according to God's way.
Scripture References:
Matthew 3:13-16; 28:19-20; Acts 2:38; 8:12-17; Romans 6:1-7; Colossians 2:12
From the Library: Baptism
Basic Doctrines: Water Baptism
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughThe doctrine of baptisms is a foundational and fundamental teaching and belief of the church of God. Although it is a physical ceremony, the lessons and effects of baptism are spiritual. By it, we demonstrate to God our sincere decision and determination to live His way of life, and show our belief in and acceptance of His Son's …
Does Paul Condone Baptism for the Dead (I Corinthians 15:29)?
Bible Questions & AnswersThe practice of being baptized for those who have died is based on a misunderstanding of I Corinthians 15:29. Baptism is for the living, serving as a symbol whereby they acknowledge their sins, figuratively die with Christ in a watery grave, and rise to live a new, righteous life through Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the …
Baptism and the Last Day of Unleavened Bread
CGG Weekly by Ronny H. GrahamBefore Jesus Christ's ministry began, John the Baptist preached in the wilderness about repentance from sin and baptism. He spoke of three distinct baptisms, declaring that while he baptized with water unto repentance, the One coming after him, mightier than he, would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire. All four gospels …
The Wonderful Ordinance of Water Baptism
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsBaptism symbolizes a burial and resurrection, or the crucifixion of the carnal self. After a person realizes his ways have been wrong, he should counsel for baptism.
Baptism and Unleavened Bread
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamThe pattern of burial and rescue from a watery grave appears often in scripture, indicating that baptism plays an enormous role in God's overall purpose.
Are You Justified?
Bible Study by Martin G. Collins'Justification' is a theological term that many do not understand, thinking that it is a complex point of doctrine. But it is not as difficult as it may seem.
What Must We Do When We Recognize Our Guilt?
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsWhen we do something against the law or our own conscience, guilt is triggered, and we suffer, not just a gut-wrenching emotion, but also a descent into sin.
Why We Must Put Out Leaven
Article by Earl L. HennWhy must we put leaven out, yet we do not have to circumcise our baby boys? Is deleavening 'Old Covenant'?
For more resources, please see the library topic for Baptism