Water baptism symbolizes the moment of salvation; therefore, it is rich with symbolism that reflects key truths of the Christian faith. Let us delve into the significance of this act and its biblical foundations.
Plunging Under Water: Symbolizes the Death Penalty for Sins
When we are plunged under the water during baptism, it symbolizes the death penalty for our sins. Scripture tells us that we are all born dead in our trespasses and sins. Ephesians 2:1-2 states, “And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you previously walked according to the ways of this world.” This immersion signifies the acknowledgment that our sins deserve death, a penalty paid by Jesus Christ on our behalf.
Jesus Christ died for the sins of the whole world, as stated in 1 John 2:2, “He himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours, but also for those of the whole world.” When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, the body of sins is crucified with Him. Romans 6:6 affirms this: “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be rendered powerless, that we should no longer be slaves to sin.”
Furthermore, when you are water baptized, you are making a public declaration of your salvation in obedience to God. As the Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 10:9-10: “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” While this passage focuses on verbal confession, baptism is another form of declaring faith publicly.
Staying Under Water: Symbolizes Your Sins Washed Away
While under the water, we are reminded that our sins are washed away. This powerful image represents the complete cleansing and forgiveness we receive through Christ. Acts 22:16 encourages us, “And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.”
When someone accepts Jesus Christ as their Savior, their sins are not only washed away but also hidden behind God’s back, buried under the deepest sea, and separated as far as the east is from the west. Isaiah 38:17 says, “You have put all my sins behind your back.” Micah 7:19 adds, “You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.” Psalm 103:12 beautifully declares, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” This assurance means our sins are never to be remembered against us forever.
However, we cannot leave anyone under the water for long because it is only symbolic. This temporary submersion points to the reality of the forgiveness and cleansing that has already been accomplished through Christ.
Raising Out of the Water: Symbolizes New Life in Jesus Christ
Rising out of the water symbolizes the new life we receive in Jesus Christ. This act reflects the believer’s resurrection to a new, supernatural life, mirroring Jesus’ own resurrection. Romans 6:4 states, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
Christians are born again from above with eternal life. John 3:3-5 speaks of this new birth: “Jesus replied, ‘Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again… no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.'” As new creatures, we are empowered by God to live differently. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Moreover, Christians have the power to be free from their sins. Romans 6:14 encourages us, “For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.” This new life in Christ is marked by victory over sin and a transformative relationship with God.
Water baptism, therefore, is a beautiful and powerful symbol of our death to sin, it symbolizes the washing away of our transgressions, and our resurrection to new life in Christ. It is a testament to the work of salvation accomplished by Jesus and a public declaration of our faith in Him.
Digging Deeper
- What is Salvation Baptism? – Salvation baptism doesn’t have to be complicated. Here is an analysis of all verses with the verb or noun “baptism” and the preposition “into”
- Simple “Romans Road” to salvation – These verses in Romans give the clearest gospel message because it is the only Commentary of Salvation by Grace that was written by the Apostle Paul
- The Sinner’s Prayer – A sincere sinner’s prayer involves repentance, faith in Jesus Christ, confession of sin, surrender to God, and humility.
- More impossible ways to lose your salvation – All these impossible things would have to happen for you to lose your salvation. None of these things can happen. Therefore, your salvation is secure.