Is Baptism Just a Symbol?

 

  The Importance of Baptism:

 Baptism is a sacrament ordained by God through Christ our Lord. It is something all Christians ought to do once they give their life to Christ.  It is more than a mere symbol because baptism is partaking in the grace of God. It is also a gift from God and it uplifts the believer. Jesus commands in Matthew 28:19,"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit..." If baptism is only a symbol, then why does Christ tell the disciples to baptize all the nations? The view of baptism only being a symbol appeared around the reformation era with the Ana-baptists. Many of the reformers and church fathers believed Baptism was necessary for salvation. 

Is Baptism Necessary for Salvation: 

I believe it is necessary in order to work out our salvation! Mostly because I believe all Christians should be baptized if they have the opportunity to. I am not saying baptism in itself gives you salvation because I know only Christ can grant us eternal life. However, I would be worried if a fellow believer overlooked baptism because it was one of the first things Jesus did at the start of his ministry.   I do think there are exceptions, like the thief on the cross and those who are persecuted. I also believe that baptism is the sign of the New Covenant like how circumcision was the sign of the Old Covenant.

That's all I have for now! Thanks for reading, and God Bless!