For Christians, baptism represents the believer following Christ into His death, burial, and resurrection. The symbolism is perfect and filled with deep meaning. In baptism, the eyes are closed, the hands are folded, and breath is suspended as in death — if only for a moment. Then comes burial in the water; then resurrection from the watery grave to a new life in Christ. When raised from the water, the eyes open and breathing begins again. It’s a likeness of the resurrection.

The great difference between Christianity and every other religion is the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. In these three acts, all that God desires to do for us is made possible.

To keep these three vital acts alive in the minds of Christians until the end of time, the Lord instituted baptism by immersion as a memorial. No other form of baptism can possibly meet the symbolism discussed in Romans 6:4-6.

The Bible says, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:16). This is pretty powerful evidence that we all Christians need to be baptized.

However, not that some have given their lives to Jesus, but they couldn’t get baptized because of the circumstances of prison or bad health. Think about thief on the cross; he wasn’t baptized, but Jesus guaranteed he would be in heaven after the resurrection. So if a person wants to be baptized but isn’t able to, it isn’t an obstacle to their salvation. The Lord is merciful.

But if you are a Christian, it is important to make a commitment to be baptized.