Before exploring the purpose of baptism in the 

Christian life, it's important to gain an

understanding of its meaning. The English word "baptism" comes from the
Greek baptisma, which refers to "washing, dipping, or immersing something into water."

A general biblical definition of baptism is “a rite of washing with water as a sign of religious
purification and consecration.” This rite of cleansing with water as a means of achieving ritual
purity was practiced frequently in the Old Testament (Exodus 30:19–20).

Baptism signified purity or cleansing from sin and devotion to God. Many believers have
practiced baptism as a tradition without fully understanding its significance and purpose.

What Is the Purpose of Being Baptized?

Christian denominations differ widely in their teachings about the purpose of baptism.

 Some faith groups believe baptism accomplishes the washing away of sin, thus making it
a necessary step in salvation.
 Others believe that baptism, while not accomplishing salvation, is still a sign and seal of
salvation. Thus, baptism ensures entrance into the church community.
 Many churches teach that baptism is a vital step of obedience in the believer’s life, yet
only an outward acknowledgment or testimony of the salvation experience already
accomplished. These groups believe baptism itself has no power to cleanse or save from
sin since God alone is responsible for salvation. This perspective is called "Believer's
Baptism."
 A few denominations consider baptism a form of exorcism from evil spirits.

New Testament Baptism

In the New Testament, the significance of baptism is seen more clearly. John the Baptist was sent
by God to spread the news of the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ. John was directed by God (John
1:33) to baptize those who accepted his message.

John's baptism was called “a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” (Mark
1:4, NIV). John's baptism anticipated Christian baptism. Those baptized by John acknowledged
their sins and professed their faith that through the coming Messiah they would be forgiven.

Jesus Christ submitted to baptism as an example for believers to follow.

Baptism is significant in that it represents the forgiveness and cleansing from sin that comes
through faith in Jesus Christ. Baptism publicly acknowledges one's confession of faith and belief
in the gospel message. It also symbolizes the sinner's entrance into the community of
believers (the church).

Purpose of Baptism
Identification

Water baptism identifies the believer with the Godhead: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit:

Matthew 28:19
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of
the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (NIV)

Water Baptism identifies the believer with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection:

Colossians 2:11-12
"When you came to Christ, you were 'circumcised,' but not by a physical procedure. It was a
spiritual procedure--the cutting away of your sinful nature. For you were buried with Christ
when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to a new life because you trusted the
mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead." (NLT)