Do I have to be baptized?

Yes. Jesus commanded his followers to make disciples and baptize them (Matthew 28:18-20). In the New Testament, people who believed were baptized as a public way of identifying with Jesus and his people (Acts 2:38-41; Romans 6:3-4). Baptism is not an optional extra for especially committed Christians. It is one of the first steps of obedience Jesus asks of every disciple.

Baptism does not earn your salvation, and water is not a substitute for trusting Christ. It is an act of obedience that flows from faith.

If you were baptized at an earlier time in your life, be baptized again now that you have trusted Jesus. Your baptism should express the faith you have now. Being baptized again does no harm, and you can know you have not left any of Jesus’ commands undone.

Talk with a pastor at your church and ask to be baptized. A healthy church will gladly help you take this step. If your church is unwilling, that may be a sign to look for a church that will walk with you in obeying Jesus.