Study Guide: Doctrine of Baptism
(Use this study guide for deeper study of sermon preached on May 25, 2025)
The word “doctrine” refers to the body of teachings or beliefs that are considered authoritative and foundational to the Christian faith. These teachings are based on the Bible and help guide the beliefs and practices of Christ followers. Doctrines are essential for maintaining the integrity of the Christian faith and they help to ensure unity among believers because they reflect the core truths of Christianity.
The doctrine of believer’s baptism is a powerful visual testimony of a believer's union with Christ. When a person is lowered into the water, it represents death to sin and self, mirroring the death and burial of Jesus. Rising out of the water reflects the new life and resurrection that believers experience through faith in Him. Romans 6:4 tells us, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead... we too may live a new life.” Baptism is not the means of salvation, but the outward declaration of an inward transformation.
Jesus Himself set the example by being baptized (Matthew 3:13–17), not because He needed cleansing, but to fulfill righteousness and to identify with humanity. His obedience set the standard for all who follow Him. When we are baptized by immersion, we not only follow His example, but we proclaim publicly that our lives belong to Him. It’s a moment of surrender, worship, and witness—a declaration that we have left the old life behind and now walk in the power of Christ’s resurrection.
If you’ve trusted Christ but have never been baptized by immersion, consider taking that step in obedience. It’s a defining moment of faith—one that strengthens your identity in Christ and encourages others in their own walk. And if you’ve already been baptized, reflect on that moment today. Let it remind you of the grace that buried your past and the resurrection power that now defines your life. Walk in that newness with boldness, gratitude, and joy!
Study Outline
Take some time to look up and read these verses in your Bible, highlight, or spend time reflecting as you read.
1. Definition and Meaning
Baptism by immersion is the practice of fully submerging a believer in water as a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. It symbolizes the believer’s identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.
Greek word "baptizō" means “to dip, immerse, or submerge.”
2. Biblical Support for Immersion
Jesus' Baptism by Immersion
Matthew 3:16 – “As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened…”
Indicates full submersion and rising out of the water.
Symbol of Death, Burial, and Resurrection
Romans 6:3–4 – “...We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead... we too may live a new life.”
Immersion symbolizes burial; rising out of the water symbolizes resurrection.
Example of the Ethiopian Eunuch
Acts 8:38–39 – “Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away…”
Clear instance of immersion in water.
3. Theological Significance of Immersion
Identification with Christ – Baptism is a visual representation of a believer's unity with Christ's death and resurrection.
Obedience to Christ’s Command – Baptism follows the example and command of Jesus.
Matthew 28:19 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them…”
Public Declaration – Immersion serves as a testimony of inward faith to the church and the world.
4. What Baptism Does Not Do
Baptism does not save – Baptism is a response to salvation, not a requirement for it.
Ephesians 2:8–9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith... not by works.”
Baptism does not include infant baptism – Baptism by immersion requires a conscious decision and confession of faith by the individual.
Acts 2:41 – “Those who accepted his message were baptized...”
5. Key Bible Verses
Matthew 3:16 | Jesus was baptized and came up out of the water
Romans 6:3–4 | Baptism as burial and resurrection with Christ
Acts 8:38–39 | Ethiopian eunuch baptized by full immersion
Colossians 2:12 | “Buried with him in baptism… raised with him…”
1 Peter 3:21 | Baptism as a pledge of a good conscience before God
Matthew 28:19–20 | Great Commission to baptize disciples
6. Application
Evaluate your own baptism: Was it by immersion? Was it post-salvation?
Consider baptism if you haven't yet: It’s a step of obedience to Christ.
Teach others: Help others understand the meaning and importance of baptism.
Celebrate baptism: Participate in or witness baptisms as joyful expressions of new life in Christ.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
The following questions can be used for personal reflection, small group discussions, Bible studies, or for journaling.
What does baptism by immersion symbolize that sprinkling does not?
Why is it important for baptism to follow a personal faith decision in Christ?
How does Romans 6:3–4 deepen your understanding of the meaning of baptism?
Should someone be re-baptized if they were baptized before truly believing? Explain.
How would you explain baptism to someone unfamiliar with the Bible?