In the last article we determined that before we can know who baptism is for, we needed to see who it was not for. This article will deal with who baptism IS for.

1. Baptism is for those who have sin on their record

Acts 2:38 says “...repent and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins...” Acts 22:16 says, “...Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins...” The clear Bible teaching on baptism is that it washes away sins. Therefore, baptism is for those who have sins on their record that need to be forgiven.

2. Baptism is for those who repent of sins

Acts 2:38 also says, “...repent and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins...” Repentance is a change in mind that leads to a change in action. If a person is willing to turn away from their sinful lifestyle, then baptism is for them. If person is not willing, baptism would do no good for them. Therefore, baptism is for those who are willing to turn away from their sinful way of life.

3. Baptism is for those who want to becomes Christians

In Matthew 28, just before Jesus left earth and went on to heaven, he said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you...” Jesus taught that disciples are made by baptizing them and then teaching them. A disciple is a Christian. Acts 11:26 says, “...and the disciples were first called Christians at Antioch...” In order for someone to become a Christian, Jesus said they have to be baptized. Therefore, baptism is for those who want to commit their lives to following Jesus as Christians.

If you have not been baptized, you still have sin on your record and you still are not a Christian. If you have not been baptized, surely you won’t let a little water keep you from heaven. We can baptize you today!

“Why do you delay? Arise and be baptized, washing away your sins.” (Acts 22:16)

— Kolton Ballance