God's Expectations · 3.2
Respond to Christ in Baptism
Baptism is one of God's clearest expectations for believers — a public act of faith and obedience in response to the gospel.
A Public Declaration of Faith
Baptism is not what saves you — faith in Jesus Christ does. But baptism is the outward sign of an inward transformation. It is the moment a believer publicly declares: I belong to Christ.
Throughout the New Testament, baptism follows belief. It is the expected response of someone who has trusted Jesus as Lord and Savior — an act of obedience and a witness to others.
Key Scriptures
Acts 2:38
Peter replied, Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Peter's call at Pentecost — repentance and baptism go hand in hand.
Romans 6:3–4
Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 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.
Baptism pictures death to the old life and resurrection to new life in Christ.
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.
Jesus includes baptism in the Great Commission — it is part of making disciples.
Ready to Take This Step?
If you have trusted Jesus as your Lord and Savior and have not yet been baptized, this is your next step. Baptism is an act of obedience and a powerful public witness.
Waypoint 4 walks through the full meaning of baptism — what it is, what it is not, and how to take this step. Connect with a local church to talk with a pastor about being baptized.
Explore the Full Teaching on Baptism
Waypoint 4 covers baptism in depth — its meaning, its importance, and how to respond.