Class 9 What is water baptism?

Christian water baptism holds profound symbolism within the Christian faith, representing a transformative spiritual experience. It signifies a believer’s identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As described in Corinthians, baptism is likened to a burial in water, symbolizing the death of the old self and the emergence of a new creation. Just as Jesus died and was buried, believers are submerged in water, representing the burial of their old sinful nature. However, as Jesus rose from the dead, believers also rise from the water, symbolizing their new life in Christ. This act of immersion signifies spiritual rebirth and renewal, as believers are cleansed from sin and empowered to live in obedience to God. As stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This verse underscores the transformative power of baptism, marking the beginning of a new life characterized by faith, obedience, and spiritual growth in Christ.

Romans 6:3 Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? 4 For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.