“He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:16, KJV)

ABSTRACT

This comprehensive treatise explores the profound significance of baptism as a divine ordinance in Christian theology, emphasizing its transformative power to cleanse past regrets and initiate spiritual renewal through identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, as vividly illustrated in scriptures like Romans 6:3-4 and Colossians 2:12. Drawing on biblical mandates such as Mark 16:16 and Matthew 28:19-20, it asserts baptism’s essential role as an act of obedience for salvation, while acknowledging exceptional grace in cases like the thief on the cross. The text advocates for immersion as the singular, scripturally prescribed method—exemplified by Jesus in the Jordan River (Mark 1:9-10) and practiced by the early church (Acts 8:36-39)—rejecting human traditions that introduce alternative forms, and outlines preparation through learning, belief, repentance, and conversion. Rich symbolism portrays baptism as a burial of the old sinful self and resurrection to new life, serving as a public profession of faith, entry into the church body (1 Corinthians 12:13), and a cause for heavenly joy, though it neither guarantees sinlessness nor salvation without genuine heart change. Supported by Sr. White’s writings, the discourse urges prompt obedience for converts, clarifying misconceptions and affirming baptism’s enduring memorial of Christ’s redemptive work until His return.

A CLEANSING FOR THE SOUL!

The human heart often carries burdens of regret, as the weight of past actions casts long shadows over the present. Many people yearn for a profound cleansing, a fresh start that reaches beyond the surface. The question arises: is such a transformation truly possible? Can people wash away the stains of past mistakes and fortify their character against future failings? Divine revelation answers with a resounding yes. God, in His boundless love, provides a pathway to complete cleansing and spiritual renewal. Baptism powerfully symbolizes and enacts this transformative act. While Christ’s sacrifice on the cross remains central to this divine plan, the ordinance of baptism holds remarkable significance, as its frequent mentions in the sacred scriptures demonstrate. The Bible references baptism an astounding 97 times, compared to the 28 mentions of the cross. This numerical emphasis underscores the vital role that baptism plays in a believer’s life. The Apostle Paul eloquently captures this truth in his letter to the Romans: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4, KJV). This passage reveals that baptism transcends a mere ritual; believers profoundly identify with Christ’s death and resurrection through it, marking the beginning of a new life lived in His power. Scriptures affirm this transformative power: “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?” (Romans 6:3, KJV) and “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead” (Colossians 2:12, KJV). Sr. White writes, “Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 91, 1901). She further states, “Through baptism we are buried with Christ, and rise again to newness of life” (The Desire of Ages, p. 111, 1898). These passages and writings emphasize the profound spiritual renewal that baptism facilitates. As believers delve deeper into the biblical understanding of baptism, its essence, necessity, and transformative power become increasingly clear. The next section illuminates the essential nature of baptism as a command from Christ Himself to explore this divine ordinance further.

THE DIVINE MANDATE OF BAPTISM!

The Word of God answers the question of whether baptism is truly essential with striking clarity. Jesus Himself declares, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:16, KJV). This statement directly links belief in Him with the act of baptism as a condition for salvation. The implication remains unmistakable: faith serves as the foundation, but baptism accompanies it as an act of obedience for those who embrace that faith. J.H. Waggoner further points out that belief precedes baptism in this verse, establishing a logical order. The structure of Jesus’ words suggests an intrinsic connection between faith and baptism for those who seek salvation. Believers receive the gift of salvation through grace by faith, but this verse indicates that baptism serves as the appointed way for them to publicly identify with Christ and His saving work. The Bible supports this: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15, KJV), indicating the preparatory step of sharing the gospel before baptism, and “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ” (Galatians 3:27, KJV), emphasizing the act’s role in uniting believers with Christ. Sr. White affirms, “Baptism is a sacred ordinance, instituted by Christ Himself” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 107, 1911). She also notes, “The rite of baptism is a public profession of faith in Christ” (Evangelism, p. 313, 1946). These scriptures and writings underscore baptism’s essential role in the believer’s journey. Therefore, encouraging individuals who have accepted Christ to take this step of baptism does not merely suggest a tradition; it guides them toward fulfilling a direct command from the Savior Himself. The following section sheds light on how God’s grace accommodates extraordinary circumstances, such as that of the thief on the cross.

GRACE IN EXCEPTIONAL MOMENTS!

A common question arises when people discuss the necessity of baptism: the case of the thief on the cross. He receives Christ’s promise of paradise without undergoing water baptism. However, the scriptures remind believers, “He knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust” (Psalm 103:14, KJV). God, in His infinite understanding, recognizes human limitations. In the thief’s final moments, physical baptism proves impossible, just as making restitution for his crimes, as directed in Ezekiel 33:15 (KJV), lies beyond his reach. God’s extraordinary grace saves him in this exceptional circumstance. Scriptures reinforce God’s mercy: “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy” (Psalm 103:8, KJV) and “For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment” (James 2:13, KJV). Sr. White writes, “God’s mercy is extended to every repentant soul, even in the final moments of life” (The Desire of Ages, p. 753, 1898). She further states, “The thief on the cross was saved by faith in Christ, though he had no opportunity for baptism” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 343, 1958). These passages highlight that God’s grace prevails in extreme situations. However, this unique instance does not negate the general command and importance of baptism for those who have the opportunity. The prevailing principle remains: every person who is able and has accepted Christ should follow His command to be baptized. Next, believers explore the singular nature of true baptism as defined by scripture.

THE SINGULAR PATH OF TRUE BAPTISM!

In a world that offers various paths to spiritual fulfillment, the Bible speaks with clarity about the singularity of true baptism. “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism,” (Ephesians 4:4-5, KJV). This declaration emphasizes the unity of the Christian faith, with one Lord, one faith, and consequently, one true baptism. The word “baptism” originates from the Greek word “baptisma,” which specifically means “to dip under or submerge or immerse.” While the New Testament uses other Greek words to describe different ways of applying liquids, it employs only “baptizo,” meaning to immerse, in the context of Christian baptism. This specificity in language holds significance. The idea that any sincere form of baptism proves acceptable contradicts the biblical emphasis on unity and the precise meaning of the word. However, the Bible urges obedience to the Lord’s voice (Jeremiah 38:20, KJV). Scriptures affirm this: “Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people” (Jeremiah 7:23, KJV) and “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15, KJV). Sr. White states, “The ordinance of baptism is to be administered in the manner Christ has prescribed” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 93, 1901). She also writes, “Immersion is the only form of baptism that fully represents the burial and resurrection of Christ” (The Desire of Ages, p. 111, 1898). These teachings emphasize the biblical standard of immersion. The consistent use of “baptizo” points to immersion as the divinely intended method. The next section reveals how Jesus Himself sets the standard for baptism by immersion.

THE SAVIOR’S EXAMPLE IN JORDAN!

Jesus Christ Himself sets an undeniable standard for baptism through His example. “And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:” (Mark 1:9-10, KJV). Notice the explicit detail: John baptizes Jesus “in Jordan,” not merely on the bank, and immediately afterward, He comes up out of the water. This clearly indicates baptism by immersion. John the Baptist consistently chooses locations for his baptisms where “there was much water,” (John 3:23, KJV), suggesting a depth necessary for immersion. Furthermore, the scriptures call believers to follow Jesus’ example (1 Peter 2:21, KJV). “Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him” (Matthew 3:13, KJV) and “And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water” (Matthew 3:16, KJV). Sr. White writes, “By His own example, Christ has shown that baptism by immersion is the only true method” (The Desire of Ages, p. 111, 1898). She further states, “In His baptism, Jesus fulfilled all righteousness, setting a pattern for His followers” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 439, 1905). These references confirm immersion as the biblical model. As the sinless Son of God, Jesus chooses immersion not for personal cleansing but to “fulfil all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15, KJV), establishing a clear pattern for His followers. The following section examines how the early church faithfully follows this example of immersion.

THE EARLY CHURCH’S FAITHFUL PRACTICE!

Jesus exemplifies the practice of immersion, and the early church consistently follows it. The account of Philip and the Ethiopian treasurer provides a clear illustration. “And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.” (Acts 8:36-39, KJV). This passage explicitly states that both Philip and the eunuch go down into the water, and after the baptism, they come up out of the water, unequivocally indicating immersion. Philip, a respected leader in the early Christian church, follows the same method as John the Baptist uses in baptizing Jesus. This consistency demonstrates that immersion serves as the established practice from the beginning. “And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there” (John 3:23, KJV) and “And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway” (Acts 16:33, KJV). Sr. White writes, “The early church followed Christ’s example in practicing baptism by immersion” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 50, 1911). She also states, “The baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch was a clear testimony to the biblical method of immersion” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 108, 1911). These accounts affirm the early church’s adherence to immersion. The principle remains that no individual, regardless of their position within the church, possesses the authority to alter God’s direct commands. The next section investigates the origins of deviations from this divine standard.

GUARDING AGAINST HUMAN TRADITIONS!

Jesus provides a clear example, and the early church consistently practices immersion, so the question arises as to the origin of other forms of baptism. Jesus Himself addresses this issue when He states, “But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men” (Matthew 15:9, KJV). He further rebukes those who transgress God’s commands through their traditions, rendering the commandment of God of none effect (Matthew 15:3, 6, KJV). Worship that adheres to human teachings rather than divine instruction proves vain. The scriptures urge believers to “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 1:3, KJV). “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men” (Colossians 2:8, KJV) and “Ye shall not add unto the words which I command you” (Deuteronomy 4:2, KJV). Sr. White warns, “Human traditions have often taken the place of God’s commands in the practice of baptism” (The Great Controversy, p. 587, 1888). She further states, “The ordinances of God are not to be altered to suit human convenience” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 194, 1882). These warnings highlight the danger of deviating from scripture. Therefore, human traditions that deviate from the clear teaching and example in the Word of God introduce non-immersive forms of baptism. The following section outlines the essential preparation required for this sacred ordinance.

PREPARING THE HEART FOR BAPTISM!

Preparation serves as a crucial aspect of this sacred ordinance of baptism. The scriptures outline specific requirements for those who seek baptism. Firstly, individuals must learn God’s requirements. Jesus commands His followers, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:” (Matthew 28:19-20, KJV). This involves understanding the fundamental truths of the Gospel and the significance of baptism itself. Secondly, individuals must believe the truth of God’s Word. As Jesus says, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved…” (Mark 16:16, KJV). Genuine faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior proves essential. Thirdly, individuals must repent, turn away from their sins, and experience conversion. Peter exhorts, “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:38, KJV). This signifies a heartfelt sorrow for sin and a conscious turning towards God. Furthermore, during baptism, the believer affirms their belief in Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19, KJV) and “But without faith it is impossible to please him” (Hebrews 11:6, KJV). Sr. White writes, “Before baptism, there must be thorough instruction in the truths of God’s Word” (Evangelism, p. 305, 1946). She also states, “Repentance and faith are the conditions upon which the ordinance of baptism is to be administered” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 93, 1901). These requirements ensure a meaningful baptism. The preparation for baptism serves as a vital step in aligning the heart with God’s will. The next section delves into the profound symbolism of baptism and its connection to Christ’s death and resurrection.

THE SACRED SYMBOLISM OF BAPTISM!

Romans 6:4-6 (KJV) profoundly captures the meaning of baptism: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” Baptism symbolizes the believer’s union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. The act of immersion represents death to the old life of sin, burial in the watery grave, and resurrection to a new life in Christ. This symbolism highlights the unique nature of Christianity, which centers on these three pivotal events in the life of Jesus. Immersion holds particular significance as the only form of baptism that fully embodies this powerful imagery. “In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ” (Colossians 2:11, KJV) and “Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water” (1 Peter 3:20, KJV). Sr. White writes, “Baptism is a sacred ceremony that signifies the believer’s union with Christ” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 107, 1911). She further states, “Through the ordinance of baptism, the believer publicly declares their faith in Christ’s death and resurrection” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 91, 1901). These references underscore the rich symbolism of baptism. This ordinance serves as a lasting memorial, keeping the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ alive in the minds of believers until His return. The next section explores the ongoing journey of faith post-baptism and God’s grace for the believer’s growth.

A NEW BEGINNING WITH CHRIST!

Baptism marks a new beginning, but it does not guarantee against future struggles. New Christians resemble toddlers learning to walk; they may stumble and fall. The Apostle John writes, “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:” (1 John 2:1, KJV). Just as a baby does not wait until they are certain they will never fall before attempting to walk, a believer should not delay baptism until they are sure they will never sin again. Conversion describes being “born again,” signifying a fresh start where God forgives and forgets past sins. Baptism symbolizes the burial of the desires of that old life. God judges individuals based on their overall attitude and the general direction of their lives, rather than on occasional lapses that may occur as they grow in their faith. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, KJV) and “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13, KJV). Sr. White writes, “Baptism does not ensure a life free from temptation, but it marks the beginning of a new walk with Christ” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 441, 1905). She also states, “God’s grace is sufficient to support the believer through every trial after baptism” (Steps to Christ, p. 52, 1892). These assurances highlight God’s sustaining grace. Baptism serves as a pivotal step, but the Christian journey continues with God’s guidance and strength. The following section emphasizes the urgency of baptism for the converted soul.

THE URGENT CALL TO BAPTISM!

Baptism proves an urgent matter for a converted sinner. The question posed to Saul of Tarsus resonates: “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16, KJV). Baptism serves as a public testimony that Jesus has forgiven and cleansed a repentant sinner (1 John 1:9, KJV) and that their sinful past lies behind them. At conversion, God performs remarkable acts: He forgives and forgets past sins, miraculously begins to transform individuals into new spiritual beings, and adopts them as His own children. In light of these profound blessings, no converted person would want to delay baptism, which publicly honors Jesus for His incredible work. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17, KJV) and “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:11, KJV). Sr. White writes, “Baptism is the public declaration of a new life begun in Christ” (The Desire of Ages, p. 111, 1898). She further states, “No true convert will delay in obeying the command of baptism” (Evangelism, p. 313, 1946). These teachings emphasize the urgency of the act. Baptism serves as a critical step in publicly proclaiming one’s new life in Christ. The next section explores the timing of baptism and its immediacy in biblical examples.

THE TIMELY ACT OF OBEDIENCE!

The time required to prepare for baptism varies depending on the individual’s understanding and spiritual growth. However, biblical examples demonstrate that baptism often follows shortly after conversion. The Ethiopian treasurer receives baptism on the same day he hears the truth (Acts 8:26–39, KJV). The Philippian jailer and his family receive baptism the same night they hear the truth (Acts 16:23–34, KJV). Saul of Tarsus receives baptism three days after his encounter with Jesus (Acts 9:1–18, KJV). Cornelius and his household receive baptism on the same day they hear the truth (Acts 10:1–48, KJV). These examples illustrate that while adequate preparation involving learning, believing, and repenting proves necessary, individuals can often accomplish it in a relatively short timeframe. “And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized” (Acts 18:8, KJV) and “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41, KJV). Sr. White writes, “The scriptures show that baptism often followed immediately after conversion” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 108, 1911). She also states, “When the heart is truly converted, there is no reason to delay baptism” (Evangelism, p. 305, 1946). These examples highlight the promptness of biblical baptisms. The swift response to God’s call reflects the urgency and importance of this sacred act. The following section reveals God’s joy in the obedience of His children through baptism.

HEAVEN’S JOY IN BAPTISM!

God’s feelings about the baptism of a converted person appear in His own words at the baptism of His Son: “And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17, KJV). Those who love the Lord always strive to please Him (1 John 3:22, KJV; 1 Thessalonians 4:1, KJV). Heaven experiences immense joy over a truly converted soul, and the act of baptism serves as a significant step of obedience that brings pleasure to God. “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth” (Luke 15:7, KJV) and “And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts” (Zechariah 14:16, KJV). Sr. White writes, “Heaven rejoices when a soul is baptized into Christ’s name” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 107, 1911). She further states, “God is honored by the obedience of His children in baptism” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 91, 1901). These statements reflect the divine delight in baptism. The act of baptism creates a moment of celebration in heaven and on earth. The next section explores how baptism integrates believers into God’s church.

JOINING THE BODY OF CHRIST!

True baptism inextricably links to becoming a part of God’s church. The scriptures clearly outline this connection. All believers receive a call into one body (Colossians 3:15, KJV). The church serves as the body of Christ (Colossians 1:18, KJV). Believers enter this body through baptism: “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:13, KJV). Furthermore, the Lord adds God’s converted people to the church: “Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved” (Acts 2:47, KJV). “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence” (Colossians 1:18, KJV) and “Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular” (1 Corinthians 12:27, KJV). Sr. White writes, “Through baptism, believers are united with the church of Christ” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 50, 1911). She also states, “Baptism is the door to membership in God’s church” (Evangelism, p. 313, 1946). These references highlight baptism’s role in church unity. Therefore, baptism functions not solely as an individual act but also as the means by which believers integrate into the community of faith. The final section clarifies the true significance of baptism and addresses common questions.

UNDERSTANDING BAPTISM’S TRUE MEANING!

Believers must understand what baptism truly signifies and what it does not. Firstly, baptism itself does not change the heart; it symbolizes a change that has already occurred. As Jesus says, “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5, KJV). One can undergo the physical act of immersion without genuine faith, repentance, or a new heart. Secondly, baptism does not necessarily evoke specific feelings. Salvation roots in faith and obedience, not emotional experiences. Thirdly, baptism does not eliminate temptations. Believers continue to face trials, but God promises, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5, KJV), and assures a way of escape from temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13, KJV). Fourthly, baptism does not function as a magical rite that guarantees salvation. Salvation comes as a free gift from Jesus Christ received through the new birth. Unless genuine conversion precedes baptism, the ceremony lacks its intended meaning. Peter clarifies that baptism serves not merely as a physical cleansing but as “the answer of a good conscience toward God” (1 Peter 3:21, KJV). “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost” (Titus 3:5, KJV) and “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4, KJV). Sr. White writes, “Baptism is a symbol of the inward change wrought by the Holy Spirit” (The Desire of Ages, p. 111, 1898). She further states, “The power of baptism lies in its representation of a transformed heart” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 91, 1901). These clarifications ensure a proper understanding of baptism’s role. Baptism serves as a vital and deeply symbolic ordinance for believers. It functions not merely as a ritual but as a profound act of obedience to Christ’s command, a powerful representation of identification with His death, burial, and resurrection, and the gateway into a new life within the community of faith. By following the example of the Lord and adhering to the teachings of scripture, believers experience the full grace and transformative power embodied in this sacred act.

“For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ” (Galatians 3:27, KJV). This verse encapsulates the profound significance of baptism as a public declaration of faith, uniting believers with Christ and His church, symbolizing a new life through His death and resurrection.

Requirement	Biblical Basis	Explanation
Learn God’s Requirements	Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV)	Understanding the fundamental teachings of the Bible and the specific meaning and significance of baptism as commanded by Christ.
Believe God’s Word	Mark 16:16 (KJV)	Having a genuine and heartfelt faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, accepting His atoning sacrifice and the truths of the Gospel.
Repent and Convert	Acts 2:38 (KJV); Acts 3:19 (KJV)	Experiencing true remorse for sin, turning away from a life of sin, and making a conscious decision to follow Christ in obedience and love.
Affirm Belief	Implicit in the act; connects to Romans 6:4-6 (KJV)	Publicly declaring one’s belief in the core tenets of the Christian faith, particularly the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, symbolized through immersion.