Articles
Saved Through Water: The Biblical Truth of Full Immersion Baptism
Baptism is a powerful, life-changing act of obedience and faith. Throughout Scripture, God has used water as a means of salvation, cleansing, and transformation. Full immersion baptism is not merely a ritual—it is a profound spiritual experience that marks the beginning of a new life in Christ.
God Saves Through Water
One of the most striking biblical examples of salvation through water is found in the story of Noah. In a time of sin and darkness, only Noah stood out as righteous. God made a plan to save Noah and his family by preserving them in the safety of the ark as flood waters cleansed the world. In 1 Peter 3:20-21, the apostle Peter draws a direct connection between the Great Flood and baptism, stating, "To those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ." Just as Noah and his family were saved through water, so too are we saved when we enter into the waters of baptism in obedience to God's command.
Jesus' Example of Baptism
Jesus Himself set the ultimate example of immersion baptism. As Jesus began His ministry, He meets John the Baptist at the Jordan River where we read in Matthew 3:16: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water." This passage clearly shows that Jesus was fully immersed in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. If the Son of God, who was without sin, chose to be baptized as an act of obedience, how much more should we follow His example? Jesus' baptism demonstrated humility and submission to the Father's will, providing a model for all who seek to follow Him.
Buried and Raised to Walk in Newness of Life
Baptism is a necessary act that mirrors the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Romans 6:4, Paul writes, "We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." When we are immersed in the water, our old self—our sinful past—is buried, and as we emerge, we are raised to walk in newness of life, washed clean by the blood of Christ. This transformation marks the beginning of our faith journey, a commitment to live for God and turn away from sin.
Answering the Call
If you have been searching for a way to leave your past behind and embrace a new life in Christ, full immersion baptism is the answer. It is not simply an outward sign but an act of faith that unites us with Jesus in His death and resurrection. The invitation is open to all who desire to turn away from sin and commit their lives to God.
Are you ready to take this step of faith? If you desire to be baptized and begin your walk with Christ, we encourage you to reach out to us at Almaden Valley Church of Christ. We would love to study with you, pray with you, and help you make this life-changing decision.
Come, be washed in the waters of baptism, and rise to walk in a new life with Christ!
