The Example of the Early Church
Acts 2:38-41
After Peter preached the gospel on the Day of Pentecost, many people believed.
Those who received the message were baptized and publicly identified themselves with Christ.
The pattern throughout Acts is consistent:
- The gospel is preached.
- People believe.
- They are baptized.
The Ethiopian Eunuch
Acts 8:36-39
“Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, ‘See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?’”
After hearing the gospel and believing in Christ, the Ethiopian eunuch desired baptism.
His response demonstrates the heart of a genuine believer:
Faith in Christ followed by obedience to Christ.
Who Should Be Baptized?
According to the New Testament, baptism is for those who have personally placed their faith in Jesus Christ.
The biblical pattern is:
- Hear the gospel.
- Believe in Christ.
- Be baptized.
Because baptism is a public declaration of personal faith, it follows salvation rather than preceding it.
Baptism and Discipleship
Baptism is not the finish line.
It is the beginning of a life of discipleship.
A disciple is someone who follows Jesus, learns from Him, and obeys His teachings.
Baptism marks the beginning of a believer’s public walk with Christ.
After baptism, believers continue growing through:
- Prayer
- Bible study
- Fellowship
- Worship
- Service
- Evangelism
Baptism is the first step of obedience, not the last.