As we gather here today, let us remember the words of Jesus Himself, spoken to His disciples before ascending into heaven. In Matthew 28:19, He said,

Matthew 28:19–20 (ESV)

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, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

These profound instructions from our Lord emphasize the importance of baptizing believers in the triune name of God. It is not merely a suggestion but a commandment given to us by Jesus Himself. Therefore, let us faithfully fulfill this directive as we carry out the mission entrusted to us.

Now, turning our attention to the book of Romans, we find further insight into the significance of baptism. In Romans 6:1-10, the Apostle Paul eloquently expounds on the transformative power of baptism and its connection to our identification with Christ's death and resurrection.

Paul writes,

Romans 6:1–10 (ESV)

6 What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 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.

5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. 6 We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. 7 For one who has died has been set free from sin. 8 Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9 We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. 10 For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God.

These words remind us that through baptism, we are not only united with Christ but also participate in His death and resurrection. Just as Jesus commanded, we baptize believers in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, symbolizing their entrance into a new life—one that is characterized by victory over sin and the promise of eternal life.

Let us not overlook the profound symbolism and transformative nature of baptism. It represents our identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. We die to our old selves, and as we rise from the waters of baptism, we are born anew, empowered by the life-giving Spirit of God.

Therefore, as we go forth proclaiming the good news of salvation, let us faithfully carry out the commandment of our Lord Jesus to baptize believers in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. By doing so, we demonstrate our obedience to His teachings and our commitment to walk in the footsteps of our crucified and risen Savior.

May the act of baptism continue to serve as a powerful testament to the transformative work of Christ in our lives, and may it lead others to the saving knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ."