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Baptisms

Following Jesus’ Example

One of the things every follower of Jesus should do is be baptized. Jesus Himself was baptized. But what is baptism, and why is it so important for us?

Baptism means submersion. There are different kinds of baptisms in the Bible, but the most well-known type is water baptism. This is submersion in water and symbolizes dying to your old life, being washed from your past, and being raised to new life with Christ.

We also see in the Bible the baptism of the Holy Spirit. When we are born again, we receive God’s Holy Spirit to live in our hearts. This is not the same as the baptism of the Holy Spirit. That baptism is a submersion in the Holy Spirit that gives us:

• Power to be a witness for Jesus
• Spiritual gifts
• A life saturated in the love of God, because God is love

We see the baptism of the Holy Spirit happen when believers lay hands and pray for others to receive God’s power. We also see Jesus personally baptizing people in the Holy Spirit as they hear the Word, are saved, and empowered all at once.

“Every follower of Jesus should be baptized.”

It is important to be both water baptized and baptized in the Holy Spirit. In doing so, we follow Jesus’ example, become bold witnesses, and receive power for life. Be sure to ask your faith-filled friend when the next water baptism is and about the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, we are baptized in Christ; submerged in His death, and now we live by faith.

Prayer

“Dear God, submerge me in Yourself and saturate me. Amen!”