1.) It illustrates Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.
- “Christ died for our sins...He was buried...and He rose again.” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
- “For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were raised with Christ.” (Colossians 2:12)
2.) It’s a living picture of my new life as a follower of Jesus. (Romans 6:4)
Baptism doesn’t make you a follower of Jesus, it demonstrates that you already have decided to follow. It’s important to understand that baptism does not secure a relationship with God (it doesn’t help you get in with God). That relationship with God happens only by grace through your faith in Jesus and what He did for you on the cross.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith...it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 Baptism is like a wedding ring—it is the outward symbol of the commitment you make in your heart. It’s an outward expression of an inner change.