We want to be people who DO what Jesus does and want to ACT on what we learn from him. One expression of doing and acting what Jesus does is baptism.

Jesus was baptized. “But Jesus said, “It should be done, for we must carry out all that God requires.” So John agreed to baptize him.”
Jesus said to baptize. “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
His followers baptized. “Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day—about 3,000 in all.”

How do you decide to be baptized? What can you expect? Some will look to tradition or a denomination for answers. And while they have thoughtful responses to these questions, we can do our best to look at the Bible and follow as closely as we can to what we see Jesus saying, doing, and acting.

So, when should you be baptized? As soon as when you acknowledge Jesus is Lord and Christ. Will everything change immediately? No, but everything will have a new capacity to change! You will have a new family with new possibilities and a new start in a new direction!

The “how” of baptism also demonstrates the beauty of baptism. Practicing immersion into water symbolizes:

Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.
Humility and submission.
The necessity of community!

So, what can you expect to experience during baptism? Here are five things people experience through baptism:

New support. The Church is communal. Baptism is a public act because it takes people to support you and come alongside one another in the process of becoming more and more like Jesus.
Affirmation. When Jesus was baptized, he heard the Father saying, “This is my beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased.” God affirms your identity and relationship with him and his people!
God's presence. God is always present with us! Baptism marks not just a moment, but a life with God's presence, power, and promise.
A memory. Baptism is a clear point in time to mark, remember, and celebrate as part of your transformation story!
A beginning, not an ending. Baptism is not a finish line; it’s a waypoint as another “yes” to Jesus’ invitation to life with him and his people!

Now that you’ve seen and heard, what questions remain for you, and what next step can you take?

5 Things People Experience Through Baptism