Hello & Welcome to Lesson 2!

We trust that you enjoyed your first lesson on what Water Baptism is and what it symbolises.

A Reminder

Read through all the scriptures provided, and give yourself space and time to think about what you are reading.

Let’s Recap…

Water Baptism is:

  • A picture of the gospel - confirms your salvation experience.

  • An outward symbolic act to remind you that you have moved from a state of death to life.

  • An outward action of what God has done inside your heart

  • Finally, a demonstration that you belong to God's family and Jesus.


Let's dive a little deeper, shall we?

    • Matthew 28:19 - 20

    • Mark 16:15 - 16

    • Acts 2:41

    • Acts 16:30 - 33

    • Acts 22:15

As Westerners, we value individualism and while your decision to follow Jesus is a personal one, your faith isn't meant to be private. In the previous lesson, you may have noticed that the word "baptise" is linked to a public confession.

In Jesus’ day, when people put their faith in Him, they were asked to express that publicly by being baptised in water for all to see. Something extremely powerful happens when you declare publicly to your friends and family that you have put your faith in Jesus and are committed to following Him.

Why get Water Baptism?

Learning from Jesus

We know this can be hard for some people, as it may bring anxiety about sharing your faith publicly. To help with these feelings and learn from Jesus, let's explore what He said and did regarding Water Baptism.

  • Our Example.

    The best reason for getting water baptised is because Jesus has asked us to do it (Matthew 28 v 19), and Jesus himself got baptised in water (Mark 1 v 9). As you read the Gospels, notice that Jesus' constant motivation was to do His Father's will and to complete His work (John 4 v 34). He got baptised in water "to fulfil all righteousness as an example" to you and me (Matt 3 v 15). Jesus did everything that His Father asked him to do, and we are called to do the same, albeit imperfectly.

  • Through His Obedience

    Jesus says in John 14:15, "If you love me, you will keep My commands". Water Baptism demonstrates your love for Jesus and is one of your first acts of obedience to Him. In the ancient world, the Hebrews saw obedience as validation of their faith in God. If their faith didn't involve action, it was seen as phoney. Our actions need to cooperate with our faith! As you grow in faith, you will see through your actions that your faith finds its full expression. This may sound uncomfortable and even somewhat terrifying, but trust that if God is asking you to do something, he must have a pretty good reason for it.

In summary

Water Baptism is a beautiful public celebration for you to look back on. You will be able to say this was when God did something powerful in your heart, all because you took this step of obedience and faith. We encourage you that as you step out of your comfort zone, God will open up other areas in your life for Him to bless you with.