Water Baptism in the Pentecostal Tradition

Main Passage:

Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV) "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."

I. Introduction (5 min)

Opening Question: “Why do we get baptized in water as believers?”

Illustration: A wedding ring – It does not make someone married, but it is an outward sign of an inward covenant.

Purpose of the Class: To understand the Pentecostal perspective on water baptism, its meaning, and its significance for the believer.

II. What is Water Baptism? (5 min)

Definition: Water baptism is an outward declaration of an inward transformation. It is a public testimony of a believer’s faith in Jesus Christ.

Key Scripture: Acts 2:38 (ESV) “And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”

Pentecostal Perspective: While baptism is not required for salvation, it is an act of obedience and a means of identifying with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.

III. The Biblical Pattern of Baptism (10 min)

Baptism is for Believers (Believer’s Baptism)

Mark 16:16 – “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.”

Example: Acts 8:36-38 (Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch) – Baptism follows faith.

Baptism by Immersion

Greek word baptizo means “to immerse” or “to dip.”

Jesus was baptized by immersion (Matthew 3:16).

Romans 6:3-4 – Baptism symbolizes dying to sin and rising with Christ.

Baptism is a Command, Not an Option

Matthew 28:19 – The Great Commission includes baptism.

Acts 10:47-48 – Even Cornelius and his household were commanded to be baptized after receiving the Holy Spirit.

IV. Water Baptism & the Holy Spirit (10 min)

Acts 10:44-48 – Cornelius’ household received the Holy Spirit before baptism.

Is Baptism Necessary for Receiving the Holy Spirit?

Acts 2:38 – Some received the Holy Spirit after baptism.

Conclusion: Pentecostals believe baptism is not a requirement for receiving the Holy Spirit, but a separate act of obedience.

John 3:5 – “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”

Water Baptism vs. Spirit Baptism

Acts 19:1-6 – Some were baptized in water but later received the baptism in the Holy Spirit.

Pentecostal View: Water baptism and Spirit baptism are distinct experiences, both essential for a believer’s spiritual life.

V. Why Baptism Matters Today (10 min)

It is an Act of Obedience to Jesus’ Command

Matthew 28:19 “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”

It is a Public Declaration of Faith

Acts 2:41 “So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.”

It is a Step of Separation from the Old Life

Romans 6:4 “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.”

It Connects Us to the body of Christ

1 Corinthians 12:13 “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”

It Strengthens Personal Faith – Taking a physical step of faith deepens spiritual conviction.

VI. Common Questions About Water Baptism (5 min)

What if I was baptized as a baby?

Pentecostals practice believer’s baptism, meaning baptism should follow personal faith.

Can I be re-baptized?

If the first baptism was not done in faith or by immersion, re-baptism is an option.

What if someone dies before getting baptized?

Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works.

Ephesians 2:8–9 “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

VII. Call to Action & Conclusion (5 min)

Have you been baptized in water since coming to faith?

Personal Reflection:

What does baptism mean for your personal walk with Christ?

If the church has a baptism service coming up, encourage attendees to take the next step.

Encourage Sign-Ups for Baptism:

Thank God for the work of salvation and the gift of baptism.

Closing Prayer:

Pray for those considering taking this step of obedience.