[Steve Myers] A question came up, "Why baptism?" Well, it's an important question that we need to talk about for a little bit because it's a big subject and people would ask, "Well, what's the importance of baptism?" or "Why should I be baptized?"

I think one of the first places we need to begin is the example of our Savior Jesus Christ. We know that Jesus Christ Himself was baptized. Now, why was He baptized? Was He baptized because He needed to be baptized? No, He was God in the flesh. He was Emmanuel—God with us. And so He didn't need to be baptized. So, He set the example for us. And what did He say? Follow Me.

And so one of the reasons we need to be baptized is because we're following the example of Jesus Christ. He set that example for all of us. And so certainly that's the case, and it didn't stop there. It's interesting that He also commanded something after the crucifixion. After the crucifixion, we can find over in Matthew 28 and if we go to verse 19 or so, we find that Jesus Christ gave the disciples a command. And He said go into the world and preach the gospel. And He also said baptize them. Baptize them (Matthew 28:17-20)

So, it's interesting that after the crucifixion, the command that Jesus Christ gave the disciples and by extension the church was to preach, to teach, and to baptize those who would come to Him. And so we find that's very necessary.

Baptism was something Jesus Christ expected of His people. And as you see, what actually was the result? What did the disciples do? Well, if you look over in Acts—we'll write this one down—over in Acts 28, or Acts chapter 2, it's an interesting section of scripture because it's right at the very beginning of the New Testament Church. And I'll write down—I hope that you can read that—Acts 2:38 we find the beginning of the New Testament Church and right at that very first message that Peter was giving, people were convicted that they had crucified Christ. And they asked Peter and the disciples, what should we do? And do you know what the answer was? It was what Jesus Christ told them they should be doing, Acts 2:38, here's what it says, "Peter said to them, 'Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins.'"

And so did the disciples follow through on what Jesus Christ told them they needed to do—to baptize in His name? They did! They followed right through with that. And so those that were coming to God were baptized. And in fact, we find that that was the practice of the church as people were converted. What happened to the very first Gentiles that came to God and answered His call? Well, they were baptized as well. We find that example in the book of Acts as well.

And in fact if we go to Hebrews chapter 6—we'll write that one down too—Hebrews chapter 6 we find a listing of some of the basic doctrines of the church. And you'll never guess what one of those basic doctrines is. The doctrine of baptism, right there in Hebrews chapter 6 (Hebrews 6:1-3).

So, is this an important issue? Absolutely. It's a big topic. There are so many aspects to baptism. And we'll take some time during our BT Dailies to talk about the different aspects of baptism.

Now if you want to find some information immediately, you can go on the web. We have a wonderful booklet called The Road to Eternal Life. Lots of information here about baptism that can help you get started if you're wondering about some of the symbolism behind baptism and why it's so very important for us.

So remember—why baptism? To follow the example of Christ. We follow His command and we do that as we dedicate our lives fully and totally to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

That's BT Daily. We'll see you next time.