Hi, I’m Kayla Watts. This blog is a personal space where I share insights from my spiritual journey. Rolling Like A Mighty Ocean focuses on my unique experiences, which I refer to as adventures of a lifetime. I have a passion for traveling and exploring various cultures, which will serve as the primary theme for this blog, although I will also share diverse thoughts as they arise. My goal is to motivate others to delve deeper into their relationship with the Lord.
A bit about me:
I was baptized in August 2024 and have chosen to embrace the cross and follow Jesus. Letting go of my former self has proven challenging, but the Holy Spirit is continuously teaching and guiding me. As I navigate the ever-shifting tides of life, I find comfort in knowing that God will accompany me through any challenges I face.
Psalm 146:6 ” He is the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them – he remains faithful forever”.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 states, “Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
“You have not handed me over to the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place,” Psalm 31:8
Romans 12:2 ” Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God”.
The Significance of Baptism
Baptism is highly regarded within Christianity as it was established by Jesus, who instructed His disciples—and all believers—to use this ritual as a means to welcome others into the faith. As stated in Matthew 28:18-20: “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”
Moreover, John 3:22 reveals that Jesus baptized His disciples before they began to baptize others: “After this, Jesus and his disciples went out into the Judean countryside, where he spent some time with them, and baptized.” This highlights the essential role of baptism in Christianity. Additionally, it serves various religious and social purposes, marking the beginning of a person’s journey as a follower of God.
Three Key Reasons for the Importance of Baptism
Though individuals can hold Christian beliefs and practice their faith without baptism, this rite is a vital step in the Christian journey for three main reasons. Below, we explore the significance of each.
1. Personal Connection to Christ
The journey of faith commences when individuals acknowledge Jesus as their Lord and Savior. While this recognition is crucial, baptism provides believers with the opportunity to formally renounce a sinful life and unite with Christ. It represents the conclusion of the old life and the commencement of a new one, encapsulating the idea of being “reborn in Christ.”
2. Joining the Christian Community
Baptism marks the official moment when individuals declare themselves as Christians. After baptism, each believer becomes part of their church community and the larger Christian faith, often referred to as the body of Christ. This concept is reinforced in Ephesians 4:4-6: “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
This aspect is important because baptized individuals are not isolated in their commitment to forsake sin and pursue a righteous life. They are backed by a community that provides support as they develop their faith and share God’s love with others. In return, baptized Christians are encouraged to aid fellow members of their church and contribute positively to society.
3. Public Declaration of Faith
When striving to break a bad habit or establish a new one, sharing your goal with someone who can help you stay accountable often increases the likelihood of success. Similarly, working toward this goal alongside someone with a shared aim can boost motivation. Baptism serves a comparable purpose by allowing individuals to publicly declare their commitment to a transformed life.
In this regard, baptism is akin to a wedding or ordination ceremony, as it provides a platform for individuals to proclaim their intentions not only to themselves and God but also to their church and the wider community. By undergoing baptism, individuals publicly affirm their commitment to leading a more virtuous life and participating in their spiritual community.
If the idea of being in the public eye during baptism feels intimidating, know that those present are there to support your faith journey. Furthermore, there is no obligation to be the only person baptized on any particular occasion. Taking part in a group baptism can enhance your connection to your new community, as you share this significant experience with fellow new believers.