Baptism is not required for salvation, but it is an important step of faith for every believer. While baptism doesn’t save you, it’s a powerful symbol of the transformation Jesus has already worked in your heart.

Baptism illustrates the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:3-4), and symbolizes our new life as followers of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Baptism is not what makes you a believer — it shows the world that you already believe. It’s like a wedding ring: it doesn’t create the marriage, but it signifies a committed relationship.

Jesus Himself was baptized (Mark 1:9) and commanded His followers to be baptized (Matthew 28:19-20). At First Baptist, we baptize by immersion, following the example set in Scripture. The word “baptize” itself means to immerse or dip under water, reflecting the depth of the believer’s new life in Christ.

If you’ve made the decision to follow Jesus, baptism is your next step in publicly declaring your faith.