In places with a Christian heritage the significance of baptism can easily be underestimated. Many people get baptized or baptize their children as a matter of custom. The rite feels nostalgic.
But persecuted believers understand baptism differently. So did the early Christians. Immediately after Paul's conversion Ananias asked him, "And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name" (Acts 22:16). But any hesitation on Paul's part is understandable. Jesus had already told him how much he would suffer for his name. Being baptized into would mark him as a follower of Jesus and an enemy of the world.
Still, Paul "arose and was baptized" (Acts 9:18). He knew there was no other option; he was a disciple of Jesus. Baptism marked his new life in the Son of God. If we understand baptism, we too will see it as a sign and seal of a new life in God.
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