WHY BAPTISM IS SO IMPORTANT

Matthew 3:13-17

Truth: Jesus instructed the church to baptize. Baptism is a picture of our salvation. Baptism connects believers to the church. Have you been baptized?

I. JESUS COMMANDED THE CHURCH TO BAPTIZE

1. John the Baptist came baptizing. Matt. 3: 5-8, John 1:6, Matt 3:3
2. John baptized Jesus. Matt 3:13-17
3. The twelve Apostles of Jesus were baptized by John. Acts 1:21-23
4. Jesus commissioned the Apostles to baptized new disciples. Matt. 28:19, I Cor 12:28. Matt 16:17-19

II. BAPTISM IS A PICTURE OF OUR SALVATION

1. We have died to sin as Christ died for our sin. Gal 2:20
2. We are risen to a new life in Christ. Rom 6:3-6
3. We are to follow the Lord in the watery grave of baptism. Matt 20:23

III. BAPTISM CONNECTS BELIEVERS TO THE CHURCH

1. Baptism identifies believers with Christ and His church. Acts 2:38, Acts 2:41; 8:12; 16:33; 18:8
2. Baptism is a commanded and privilege. Acts. 2:38

HAVE YOU BEEN BAPTIZED?