Why Baptism?

[442 words] It seems like such an easy question and answer, and it is. And even though we have tried to explain the need for baptism, we continue to struggle with what it does and is it really necessary? Before presenting several simple answers to the question, it is important to take a moment to define baptism as “immersion,” according to the Greek usage. A good example of baptism (immersion) can be found in Paul’s letter to the Romans, “Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death…” (Rom. 6:4). But why the need to be baptized? Consider the following three reasons: Through baptism, we receive the forgiveness of our sins. Peter proclaimed at Pentecost, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38). We understand that…