Baptism

So, I got baptized last month! The pool was heated, don't worry. Lol. So, for today's post, I want to talk about what baptism is, its purpose, and why we should do it. Because we should. Oops. That might be a spoiler.

What is baptism?

Baptism is when you are dipped under water as a symbol for being cleansed. It shows that we are new creations in Christ. 
Do we need to be baptized?

Yes.
Why should we be baptized?

Baptism is a declaration that we have chosen to follow Christ. Christ was baptized as an example for us to follow. It is important for one who has repented of their sins.
Is baptism necessary for salvation?

No. Believing in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is all that we need to be saved. If someone is saved one day, with the intention of being baptized the next day, but dies that night, they are still saved.

Why is it important?

It is a step of obedience. It is an outward symbol of our inward faith. It is a "work" that we can do on the earth, and as we learn in the Bible, we are not saved by our works, but by Christ Jesus.

Where can I find Bible verses about baptism?

You can find verses about baptism through out the Bible, not just in the New Testament. Though Jesus' baptism contains many of the more well-known verses. I have included a couple here, but I urge you to seek out others for yourselves. Study and learn. Repent, and be baptized. May God bless you.

Matthew 3:13-15 - Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.

Ephesians 4:4-5 - There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism.

Mark 16:16 - Whoever believes and is baptized shall be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

These verses also contain records of baptisms:

Mark 1:5
Acts 2:41
Acts 8:12
Acts 9:18
Acts 10:47
Acts 16:15
Acts 16:33
Acts 18:8
Acts 19:5