Over the years, I’ve had many conversations with fellow believers and notice a difference in how we approach baptism. We all agree baptism is a symbol of dying to the flesh to arise and walk anew, but I have seen, through Scripture, that it is more than that.
The Old Testament is a foreshadowing of what was to come in the New Testament. Interestingly, in the Old Testament, there was a way for people to convert to Judaism. It was not after stating their belief (although that was required); it was not after repenting (although that was also required); it was not even after circumcision! It was only after the baptism was the foreigner considered a Jew.
Concurrently, the Bible is saturated in examples of people being saved through the water, from the Old Testament (from Noah to the Israelites in the Sea to Jonah in the big fish) through the New (Acts 2:38, “baptism doth also now save us”, etc). In fact, every convert to Christianity, save the criminal on the cross, was baptized. Immediately. So, we can see through this baptism was an important and integral part of the Good News.
Finally, we are told it is through baptism that we are given the gift of the Holy Spirit. We are told the Holy Spirit seals us (Ephesians 1:13) leads us, interceeds for us (John 14:26) teaches us and brings things to mind (John 14:26), convicts us (John 16:7-8). In addition the Holy Spirit is a source of revelation, wisdom and power.
Baptism is more than just a symbol! If you haven’t done this yet, I encourage you to do so.
Sweet Mimosa 