Biblical Reasons for Water Baptism

At U-turn World Ministries we believe there are Biblical reasons for water baptism and encourage all new Believers to follow the example of Jesus an get baptized in water by immersion. Below is a brief explanation of those reasons and the scripture references for practicing the rite of baptism in water.

Does the Bible Command Water Baptism?

According to Matt 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; and Acts 2:36-38 baptism in water is a clear commanded ordinance for all Believers. It is an outward statement of the inward change, and shows our sincere desire to repent, obey God, and follow Jesus Christ.

Jesus Set the Example to Follow

In Matt 3:13-17, we see where Jesus, although completely sinless, came to John the Baptist to be baptized in water, therefore setting the example for us to follow (1 Peter 2:21)

 

Do We Sprinkle or Dunk for Water Baptism?

The Bible clearly says that Jesus “came up immediately from the water” Matt 3:16. Since the New Testament was written in Greek, it may help to see that baptize means to “plunge into”, “to immerse” or “put into”. On the other hand, the Greek for sprinkling is rantizo. So, if you want to be baptized in water at U-turn, you are gonna be dunked.

Are There Conditions to be Met Before Being Baptized?

According to Mark 1:15, Acts 2:38 and Acts 8:12 the two prerequisites to water baptism are to believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to repent of your sins. You do not have to be sinless or be an expert in the Bible, that comes with the sanctification process as one grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ after water baptism.

When Should a Person be Baptized in Water?

Here are a few scriptures (Luke 14:28-33; Acts 8:12) that will show the importance of getting baptized as soon as possible after one has repented and come to believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Typically, this means adults or children who have matured enough to understand. In some denominations children must be at least 12 years old, but at U-turn if, after being able to understand what it means to repent of sins and believe in Jesus, a child, with parental approval, can be baptized in water.

However, we do NOT baptize infants or the dead (1 Cor 15:29) as do some religious organizations and denominations.

More Biblical Reasons for Water Baptism

  • What Baptism Symbolizes: Col 2:12-13; Rom 6:2-6, 11; Gal 2:20
  • Additional Purpose of Baptism: Matt 28:19; 1 Cor 12:13, Rom 8:14-17; Heb 2:5-13