The word baptism comes from the Greek baptizō, which means to plunge, immerse, or submerge. It also refers to the act of purifying or washing with water. It is the moment when the believer enters the water by immersion, immediately following faith.

Through it, the believer is publicly identified with the death and resurrection of Christ, repenting of sins before God, receiving forgiveness, and entering into communion with Christ. It is the abandonment of the former life, the surrender of oneself into the arms of the Father, and the beginning of newness of life.

Baptism is an ordinance of Christ: it does not save in itself but serves as the outward sign of genuine faith. It is an act of obedience and commitment, publicly declaring our union with Jesus Christ and our desire to walk in newness of life.

Salvation, however, rests solely on the grace of God received through faith in Jesus Christ and not by works of the flesh.