What Is Baptism?

This sermon explores the Christian practice of baptism as more than a symbolic ritual or graduation ceremony—it is a profound participation in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Drawing from Romans 6:3-5, the message clarifies that baptism is not what saves us, but rather it is the outward, full-body expression of inward saving faith. Salvation itself is defined through three key aspects: rescue from sin, redemption of our identity and worth, and adoption into God's forever family. Baptism represents a funeral where the old self—defined by sin, shame, and self-direction—dies in the water, and a resurrection where a new identity in Christ emerges. The sermon addresses different baptismal traditions with grace while advocating for believer's baptism by immersion as the biblical model, emphasizing that baptism requires personal, conscious faith. It concludes with an invitation for those who have believed in Jesus to publicly declare their faith through baptism, not as a sign of being ready or perfect, but as a willingness to follow Jesus and join His family on mission.