Baptism is like an induction

Ceremonies play an important role in many cultures. The induction ceremony is especially important. It can be very simple or extravagant. Whether one is being inducted into an official office, a social club, or religious group, there are a few elements that are very common.  

• First, there are witnesses. Usually the person who is being inducted will stand in front of others and be recognized as "the individual" being inducted.
•  Secondly, the inductee usually makes certain commitments. These commitments are taken very seriously and are usually set forth in order to uphold the values and goals of the organization.
• Third, there is usually some kind of symbolic act; the raising of the hand, repeating certain words, presentation of a badge, certificate or other object.

The sacrament of baptism is filled with symbolism. While Christian baptism contains some of the same elements as an induction, it is much more meaningful. 

There are witnesses. Since baptism is a public declaration of our committment to God, you will want others to participate.  They will be there to celebrate with us and hold us accountable throughout the years to come.

Baptism is a commitment. It is a statement of our intention to follow Christ with all of our heart.

Many people remember their baptism as a profound event in their lives.  There is something about the act of being baptized that  increases our faith and inhances our relationship with God.  This is why we consider baptism to be a sacrament.  (What is a sacrament?)

The symbolism of Baptism

In Romans 6 we find a very descriptive explanation of the significance of baptism.  It uses the act of being dunked under the water as a metaphor death and resurrection.  Being lowered under the water symbolizes death; like being burried.  Being raised up from the water symbolizes new life; just as Christ was raised from the dead.  Read these verses and answer the following questions: 

Romans 6:1-14 

• What do verses one and two say about sin?
• What does verses six and seven mean by being a slave to sin?
• What does it mean when it says, "do not let sin reign in your mortal bodies?" (vs. 12)
• What do the words "for sin shall no longer be your master" mean? (vs.14)

Being baptized is a very serious committment. Some people believe that, no matter how hard we try, we sin every day.  However, these verses make it clear that we cannot claim to be a Christian and continue to wilfully disobey and rebel against God.  That's a lot of pressure.  What happens if you fail?  

God knows that even the most sincere and devoted Christians may one day disobey Him.  Fortunately He gives us hope.

Read the following verses and then watch the video below:

1 John 2:1-6

What happens if I fail?